Dear All: I have compiled a couple of things I have used in the past to not stress and overeat over the holiday season -- These also apply to quitting smoking and keeping the quit overthe holidays. For many of us, this will be our first Christmas without the sticks!
Do NOT wait until December 24th to start Christmas shopping, this can be terrible from the overcrowing at stores, traffic, frustration -- all equal to stress!
Avoid alcohol, stay with club soda or non-alcoholic punch, if you MUST have a drink, stick to one of something not associated with your old habit of smoking. Or water it down ~
No overeating -- spicy foods and ones loaded with sugar are triggers for many people -- plus it's better for your health if you stay close by the veggie tray or bring a piece of whole fruit with you. I always have an apple or banana in my bag. People tend to say, "what a great idea"!
Stay with your rewards, you deserve a treat for keeping your quit! Keep yourself hydrated and take a breather (deep breathing). Go for a swim, do 1/2 hour of yoga, time to relax needs to be part of the plan!!!
Be the hostess ~ shopping, cooking and serving will not only keep you busy but will keep you happily chatting with friends and you won't even think about a smoke. Enjoy, you don't have to worry this year about when you will sneak out for a smoke!
Hope everyone's holiday season is beautiful, filled with health and blessings.
One more thing.... talk to your children about NOT smoking.
Hugz
CobenFan
[B]My Milage:[/B]
[B]My Quit Date: [/B] 3/25/2006
[B]Smoke-Free Days:[/B] 263
[B]Cigarettes Not Smoked:[/B] 4,479
[B]Amount Saved:[/B] $920.5
[B]Life Gained:[/B]
[B]Days:[/B] 24 [B]Hrs:[/B] 9 [B]Mins:[/B] 6 [B]Seconds:[/B] 1
