Using Meditation and Yoga to Quit Smoking Peacefully

One of the most common complaints from smokers and their family and friends during their quit attempts is a short temper. As the body is craving nicotine, a smokers' mood is altered. They can experience moments of anger, anxiety, and even depression. The nicotine addiction has been compared to heroine by countless medical professionals over the years. To help ease mood changes, consider guided meditation exercises or yoga to reduce stress and find peace.

Guided Meditation

The purpose behind meditation it to eliminate negative thoughts and feelings. The quitting process can be riddled with self-doubt and feeling as though you are sacrificing one area of your life for another. During those moments, listening to a meditation or calming instrumental piece with our eyes closed, in a dimly lit room for fifteen-twenty minutes will help you regain control over the quitting process.

During the time you are away from all distractions and focusing on the musical selection of your choice, begin mentally listing your reasons for quitting smoking. With each breath in, picture your lungs becoming healthier and your body becoming stronger. As you exhale, let go of all the negative feelings and thoughts that have become their own monster since achieving success in stubbing out cigarettes for good.

Yoga Deep Breathing

One of the fundamental principles of yoga is deep breathing. For the smoker working to quit smoking, deep breathing can assist in open the air sacs in the lungs, increasing oxygen reaching the body to increase healing.

• The most ideal position to open your airway is sitting on the floor with your back straight in a crossed leg position.
• Close your eyes and begin taking deep breaths through your nose.
• Using your thumb, close one gently press on one nostril and continue breathing.
• After a few minutes, switch which nostril is depressed and begin deep breathing again.
• You can follow this process for up to thirty minutes.

When you have completed the deep breathing exercise, you might feel light-headed. The increased oxygen reaching your body can provide a similar effect as the nicotine rush that comes with your first cigarette after many hours. Instead of feeling sluggish, however, you will notice an increase in energy and a positive outlook on life.

These two practices can help anyone quitting smoking reduce the number of mood swings they experience with along side cessation.

Happy Breathing!