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Your guide to quitting ? Alternative Quit Methods

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Your guide to quitting ? Alternative Quit Methods

13 years ago 0 +0 / -0 11226

Thanks for sharing your experience and the info!

I am sure many members will find it very helpful

Keep us updated on how it goes.

Ashley, Health Educator

Here to help :)

13 years ago 0 +0 / -0 20

Hi Ashley,

I decided to take a leap of faith and try laser therapy. I honestly didn't think much of it and was of the opinion that is was quite 'gimmicky'. Past quits included: zyban, patch, gum and cold turkey (that did not go well, AT ALL! lol).

My appointment with the laser therapist lasted approx. 2 hours. Nice heated comfortable bed to lay in; low lights, sleeping mask over my eyes and a cd on low volume with positive reinforcement message(s) which put me in an almost hypnotic state. Very relaxing. The laser was used on points on my hands, forehead, by my nose and on my feet. I must say I did not walk out of there feeling extremely confident. I had my appointment very late in the day so when I was at home I had my dinner and pretty much went to bed to avoid any down-time where I might be tempted. This is a method with no NRT... so we are talking a cold turkey quit. I purchased supplements that were recommended to me and have been taking them religiously (Vitamin C, Stress B Formula, Chlorella and 7 days of Cream of Tartar mixed with citrus juice - yes, I know that sounds odd! lol) The first fews days the nicodemon was certainly hanging around and driving me crazy at times - but not unbearable like has happened in the past. I did have moderate cravings during my most vulnerable times (which is in the evening). I went back for additional treatments (included in the initial cost) which were approx. 45 minutes each. I have had 3 'top ups' in total. I cannot believe how well it has gone. I have had virtually no mood swings or fits of anger/frustration - the cravings have been there but not obssessive in nature. I'm on day 13 of my quit and nicodemon has backed off big-time.... my cravings are very intermittent and I have learned how to immediately send them on their way - at this point a crave is probably lasting 20 seconds max.

My biggest test was this past weekend. Social events all weekend with lots of wine and food and late nights. I participated fully (!) and came through with flying colours. Am I still vulnerable and at risk? Of course. But it really feels different this time.

I think laser therapy is certainly a viable alternative. As with any quit, there has to be committment and you have to do some work on yourself - it does not come for free. But it's the best thing in the world :)

Ashley, you mentioned laser treatment usually taking three sessions of less than 15 minutes each - I have seen this advertised. I specifically chose a small local clinic that started me off with just under two hours. I am able to return as many times as I feel necessary for up to 3 months - after that there is a fee. The program was $275 which included all the supplements.

Quit Meter

$143,693.55

Amount Saved
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Days: 6519 Hours: 17

Minutes: 21 Seconds: 37

Life Gained
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45617

Smoke Free Days
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273,702

Cigarettes Not Smoked

13 years ago 0 +0 / -0 11226

There are many methods that we call "alternative methods." We call them alternative therapies because there is very little scientific evidence about their effectiveness. The methods listed below make many (and often conflicting) claims about how they help people quit.

These strategies do work for some people. If you want to try one of these, we strongly recommend that you also follow the proven steps to quitting, such as those found in this program. We also recommend consulting your doctor.

Laser Therapy

What is it? Much like acupuncture, a painless laser is aimed at a number of strategic points on the body. The treatment usually takes three sessions of less than 15 minutes each.

Hypnosis

What is it? Hypnosis therapy is designed to help you focus on your nicotine consumption patterns and to change your attitudes about smoking or chewing in ways that will help you quit. Hypnosis often involves 1 to 4 hour sessions and may include the development of a personal program tape to use at home after or in between sessions.

How does it work? While you are hypnotized, the therapist gives you suggestions to help you stop your nicotine use. The procedure may help with relaxation and withdrawal symptoms.

What else should I know? Your chances of quitting after just one hypnosis session are low, but may improve with multiple sessions. However, there is little evidence that the hypnotic state helps people quit above and beyond the suggestions provided by the therapist. In addition, hypnosis can be both expensive and time consuming. If you choose this method, be sure to check the costs, time commitment and your therapist's qualifications.

How does it work? The procedure may help with relaxation and withdrawal symptoms.

Do any members have experience with these methods?

Ashley, Health Educator

Here to help :)

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Your guide to quitting ? Alternative Quit Methods