The Great American Smokeout!

Thursday, November 15th was the 37th Great American Smokeout! The American Cancer Society would like to encourage smokers to use this day to either quit smoking or to make a plan to quit smoking. To help yourself get off to a fresh start, focus on your breathing and "breathe your way through the day" smoke-free.

If you chose November 15th as your quit day, try starting out your day using the following breathing technique:

Before you get out of bed each morning take a moment to take 6-10 slow, deep breaths This will open your air sacs and allow fresh air into your blood stream. Breathe in through your nose for the count of 4, hold it, exhale through your mouth for the count of 5. Make note of the pause at the end of your breath. At the pause repeat a positive statement: I am strong, I am in control, I am motivated. Or whatever works for you.

You should also do this every time you have an urge. Slow, deep breathing decreases chest pressure, heart rate and blood pressure thus, giving us a sense of relaxation. It is the deep inhalation that gives many smokers a sense of relaxation, not the cigarette. Nicotine is a stimulant, not a relaxant.

Take time today to breathe in the positives of living smoke-free and breathe out the negatives.