Did you know that roughly 70% of people who smoke want to quit? Does this sound like you? If so many people want to quit, why is it one of the most difficult things to do?

If you are looking to quit, one of the most important things to remember is that you’re not alone. With so many people looking for a solution, you will find comfort in this fact. But you must be asking what can be done?

What you need are things to do instead of smoking. That may sound overly simplistic, but you need to find positive replacements for your habit. Put your pack down and read our smoking cessation guide below.

1. Excercise

There’s nothing like a runners high. Exercising is the kind of addiction you want in your life. For your mental and physical health, exercise is a necessity.

If it’s been a while for you, start small by taking a walk or joining a yoga group. Build up your stamina by up to 45 minutes of cardio per day. When you do you will see that you will never need a cigarette again as your energy and mood will be at an all-time high.

2. Practice Gratitude

When you practice gratitude, your body’s chemistry changes and reduces stress. This simple practice will heal your relationship with smoking as to where you won’t feel the need for them anymore.

Rate your stress level on a scale of 1-10. The next step is to focus on what you have—no matter how big or small. It could be a smile, a sunset, or your friends and family.

Write down what you are grateful for. This is one of the best activities to do instead of smoking.

3. Chew Gum

Have you ever thought of chewing gum instead of smoking? Since it’s using the same parts of your body like a cigarette, it is a viable solution. Chewing gum also is known to reduce anxiety as well without nicotine.

When you’re out and about make sure you have a stick of gum on your person. This way when you get the urge you can pop in some gum. The craving will subside as your brain has something to chew on.

4. Socialize

Some smokers smoke because they’re feeling lonely or isolated. Without the support of a strong social circle, the urge to smoke will become too strong. Picking up a cigarette becomes too easy when facing negative feelings like boredom or a lack of stimulation.

When thinking of activities to do instead of smoking, there are countless ways to become more social. You could join a sports league or a meetup. You could also volunteer or meet people online.

Even calling or video calling a friend is much better than being alone with your thoughts. Be kind to yourself and focus on things to do instead of smoking.

5. Hold Something Else

Many smokers will smoke to curb anxiety or stress. Another reason is that they need something to do with their hands.

In social settings, people are unsure of how to use their hands and appear awkward or uncomfortable. To combat the uncomfortable feeling most people will fidget, put their hands in their pockets, or pick up a cigarette.

What are some things to do instead of smoking? Find something else to hold like a toothpick, stress ball, or book. When your hands get antsy, you know what to do.

For an alternative to unhealthy cigarettes, you could always visit this vape shop to curb your addiction too.

Find Things to Do Instead of Smoking to Control Cravings

We hope you have found some things to do instead of smoking with our list above. You want to become a positive statistic, don’t you? As you can see there are so many powerful replacements for your smoking habit.

When you found something that works, keep doing it. Get a support group together to keep each other accountable.

When you need a boost of motivation, read our health and fitness blog. You’ve got this!