Release Cravings

Are you thinking about quitting smoking but worried about the dreaded cravings that come after? Or maybe you’re a few days into quitting and you’re thinking of giving into your cravings or want to stop because its messing with your eating and sleeping habits. Maybe you can’t sleep all night even though the windows are closed and the blinds are down and you do everything to relax yourself before you go to bed. Maybe you are stressed and keep having arguments with those around you. Perhaps you even started to convince yourself that you were happier and healthier when you smoked and smoking was actually good for you!!

Well, do not fool yourself. It will get easier and better over time as your learn to control your cravings and understand what to expect and how to react. First of all, you need to prepare your mind for quitting and must you must believe that you can quit. Think of the reasons why you use to smoke. To release stress, cure boredom, to handle a difficult situation, to be sociable, to sleep calmly, for concentration, to stop eating, etc. There are probably a whole host of reasons why you started, however there is also an equally long list as to why you stop.

There are many techniques to help you ignore and control your cravings. One of them is Emotional Freedom Techniques which is emotional acupuncture without needles. First you need to accept that you have cravings then use special quick-releasing acupressure to let go of it. It can be done both daily and when the cravings appear. You can find many books and articles about this form of treatment online. Furthermore, make a list of the things you are benefiting from now you’re not smoking and keep it with you all the times as a gentle reminder. The reason could be things like your lungs being healthier, smelling better, having cleaner teeth and skin, having more energy and even saving money!! What could be better? Whenever you begin to feel the urge to give in read your list and repeat it to yourself then find an activity you enjoy instead of reaching for a cigarette.

Are you on a diet and becoming tempted by cravings for food you are no longer aloud? Maybe you don’t feel confident because of your weight, which upsets and depresses you a lot or maybe you just want to be slimmer to look more beautiful before your wedding or holiday.

Food carvings are one of the main causes of being overweight and giving up a diet. Many people who start diets end up quitting after a few days because of carvings. Therefore, It is important to know how to manage these cravings.

First of all, you need to know that everybody has cravings, but only some people know how to manage them.  Keep reminding yourself that you can control them. The first rule is not to give in to your cravings. Even though it sounds simple, according to research it is very difficult to ignore your cravings. Regular exercise can help as it provides a distraction from eating, whilst at the same time aiding weight loss. Also, most people feel guilty about eating unhealthy food after they exercise.

Research show that what people eat affects the chemical reactions in the brain, ultimately affecting your cravings. By eating certain kinds of food you can reduce your cravings and increase your happiness. Some unhealthy snacks like sweets or crisps offer you a quick fix as they provide serotonin which is a brain chemical that helps reduce cravings and comfort eating.

Instead of the quick fix, you should aim to increase your levels of serotonin in the long term by eating certain foods. Turkey, chicken, fish, cheese, bananas, egg, nuts, avocados, milk, soya, beans, and peas could all help you resist urges by balancing your serotonin levels. Visiting specialised resorts or restaurants that only offer healthy food options can be a good start. For example, many hotels have healthy menu for people on diets. Protein rich breakfast reduces the brain signals which control food motivation. Protein also slows down the release of energy, keeping you fuller for longer. Conversely, if you start the day with a sugar rich breakfast, it would encourage your energy levels to soar and crash – the sugar rush effect- very fast, increasing your need to eat again.  Additionally, you could start a new hobby and make your life more active, which would help to you delay eating.

Cravings are a way of releasing anxiety for some people. If you find a way to release your anxiety without giving into the craving, then make it a habit. For example, some find mediation or practicing yoga can help focus the mind into controlling cravings.  It is OK to give in or treat yourself once in a while, however, make sure it is once in a while! Often, people who make the effort to manage their cravings lose weight but end up giving totally forgetting about it when they go on holiday. Why not try a different type of holiday that will encourage you to maintain your good work. Visit a health retreat or go on an activity holiday that keeps you active.