Greetings all.
I'm at eight days today, without a cigarette. The urges to smoke come and go and I don't yet see any reduction in those thoughts. This morning I'm packing for a rigorous two month trip and it seems I want a smoke, more than ever.
That is not going to happen. My Blood Pressure is lower than it has been in three years, my chest for the most part is clear and I have increased energy levels, even after a week with no tobacco.
All I need to do is focus on the significant improvements and any pleasure from a cigarette pales, by comparison.
If you give it some thought, I think you will realize that the "pleasure" you thought you got from smoking a cigarette was mostly a lie. You felt calmer and more able to concentrate because the nicotine sensitized sensors in your brain that were demanding a fix were quieted by your providing it. That hit of dopamine can be gotten from a bit of exercise, or chocolate, or sex, or singing aloud or dancing to music ----- and those things won't slowly kill you.
This journey will be much easier if you understand that concept. If your computer is going on that trip with you, I strongly suggest reading the Allen Carr book to which we gave you a link. You don't have to follow his plan, but it will help you understand what nicotine has done to your body and mind.
Wow - that is a significant jaunt! To where will you travel? It sounds exciting!
Congratulations on making it through H#ll Week! On to Heck Week and beyond!
Nancy