Of late, am so into these misleading titles… that people expect something totally different from what I actually end up writing. Yeah – this post is similar – am yet again spreading sweetness and light. I have this super-affinity to all things health-related – could be my constant association with hospitals and doctors – could be because I am part of an ethics committee (that evaluates protocols for clinical trials) – and could be just that I am fulfilling that sneaky wish to share information that can make life better…
Whatever – this one’s about smoking – and why it is time to kick that butt.
Most smokers are convinced that lighting that cigarette and taking a deep ‘soothing’ drag can make them feel better – if they are in a lousy mood, feel down in the dumps or just stressed out.
The bad news is that the gentle wisp of blue smoke does not dissolve your anger, contempt, fear, disgust or guilt. There’s research to prove the opposite.
Here you go, you non-believers –
“A recent study in the December 2008 issue of the Annals of Behavioral Medicine concludes that smoking actually makes smokers feel more stressed on stressful days, in addition to it making them feel worse emotionally.”
That sense of relaxation you experience when you smoke is just an illusion. That cigarette is cheating you. It is just your body reacting to the nicotine. And, worse still – appeasing that craving between smokes. Cigarettes are NOT magic wands. They do not have any positive effect on your stress or well being.
So – here are some action points for those willing to take action:
Smoking is not a stress management technique – so don’t smoke when you are stressed. It won’t work. Instead – do something healthy and beneficial:
- Go for a short walk.
- Talk to a friend.
- Think positive thoughts.
- Eat a well balanced diet
- Make a list of feel-good things to do when you feel stressed
Striking that match or flipping the lighter will not lighten your mood.
Kicking the butt will. Hey – at least cut down – cut that chain – you could use that money!
This post is also featured at Mysore Blog Park
Cheers!
Vidya
I so agree with all your words Vidya..
unfortunately for those who are hooked its a tough ask..have spent ages trying to get them to get rid of the habit..
I live in the hope that I will succeed:) or rather that they will:)
@ Indyeah – He he…eventually they will. Gotta keep campaigning though!
[…] Don’t start smoking, and if you already have, kick the butt! […]
Heh heh.. Loved that title. On a serious note my SIL is an oncologist and the tales she tells are horrific. Yet, almost everyone who smokes looks upon it as a stress-buster. Thankfully this new generation seems more sensible, thanks to the ad campaigns I think. Smoking isn’t cool anymore, thank goodness.
Yes, I really think it is wonderful that today’s generation is more health-aware! Still, I think we have a long way to go, simply because of fast food! I love that you landed on this post, Tulika! Hugs! What irony about smoking being a stress buster eh? It busts a whole lot of organs in the body!
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