The hardest habit to break

Smoking is truly one of the hardest habits to break, in fact studies have found that only 7.2% of people who try to quit smoking cold turkey are successful; yet 70% of smokers wish they could quit. So why is this unhealthy and harmful habit so difficult to quit? And how can we make it easier and even, dare say, an enjoyable process.

We already know smoking is bad for you

Smokers know that smoking is bad for them, they are told constantly and are aware of the implications smoking has on their health. The cigarette boxes themselves contain warnings such as ‘smoking can kill’ and ‘smoking causes Cancer’. What other product in the world would we so readily consume with these kind of warnings?! You can show smokers graphic pictures, devastating case histories and terrifying studies and yet, despite all this information, people are still choosing to light up. There is more to smoking then just a bad habit and it’s important to address the physical and psychological aspects when attempting to quit.

The pleasure of smoking

Nicotine can cross the blood-brain barrier within 10 seconds of being inhaled. When nicotine reaches the brain, it
triggers dopamine to be released. This gives you an enjoyable and calm feeling, you feel relaxed and are no longer craving for anything. Unfortunately, as soon as you put the cigarette out, the dopamine slowly depletes and the urge to smoke returns. This is the reason people often experience symptoms of irritability, depression and anxiety when trying to quit. Luckily there are ways to combat these symptoms and to make the process of quitting easier. Your quality of life improves when you quit smoking and you owe yourself and your loved one’s the happiest, healthiest version of you!

Finding ways to feel good while quitting

We know that nicotine provides dopamine which is a very powerful chemical that creates cravings in the brain. So, it’s important to find a way to replace these dopamine levels. Recent studies have shown that CBD can help people curb a variety of issues. CBD oil can activate the brains 5-HT1A receptor, which boosts the availability of serotonin (the feel-good hormone). So, CBD may help to reduce the stress, anxiety and irritability associated with quitting smoking. The withdrawal symptoms of quitting smoking or even the pressure to quit, can cause anxiety. CBD has a positive effect on the CB1 receptors in the brain and this may alter serotonin levels which play an important role in a person’s sense of well-being and balance in life. This will help to ease any negative feelings you may have while going through the withdrawal stage.

Smoking is a habit

Tobacco is not only a physical addiction but also an emotional or habitual addiction. Many smokers associate smoking with certain times of the day, people or activities. For example, the first cigarette in the morning with a cup of coffee becomes an almost therapeutic way to start the day. Or perhaps a person enjoys having a glass of wine with a close friend and sharing some cigarettes. These rituals and habits are enjoyable and can be difficult to let go of. Smokers may feel like these activities or times of the day are no longer enjoyable because they no longer have their crutch. It is important for a smoker to recognise these triggers when they are most likely to smoke and to have CBD on hand to help them through these stressful situations. If you usually have a cigarette after dinner, rather try taking few drops of CBD to calm the body and mind. It’s about re-wiring the brain and forming healthier habits. In fact, a 2013 study showed that smokers that received CBD reduced the number of cigarettes they smoked by 40% while the placebo group saw no reduction in the number of cigarettes they smoked. This is very promising for those looking for a healthy way to finally break free from their smoking habit.

You are not alone

We understand that the choice to quit smoking can be a difficult journey for many. Try not to think of it as loosing something or missing out but rather think of everything you will gain. Your health, financial state, appearance and quality of life will all greatly improve when you quit smoking and you are not alone in this battle. Practicing mindfulness and using natural products such as CBD oil, will really ease the process and leave your body and mind in a better state. Every time you choose not to smoke is a victory.