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QuitCoach Keri
Quit 23 years 7 months ago posted 2 months 1 week ago
Hello! We are considering changing the day and time of our group support webinar sessions so that more people can attend. What day(s) and time(s) would work best for you? Please reply below. Your participation will help us find a better suited time for more QuitNow members to join our sessions. Thanks for your response!
6 Comments last reply 6 days ago
Patrica Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 month 2 weeks ago Commented 1 month 3 weeks ago
I'm on the patch . 4 days now
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 1 month 3 weeks ago
Hi Patrica, congratulations on establishing a quit day and sharing this part of your journey with the Quit Now community forum. I am happy that you have decided to assist your quit with NRT patches, and have used them for 4 days now. I will hope that you find the patches effective in helping you manage the physical cravings and you are able to work on strategies to overcome the psychological triggers effectively. If you would like any further assistance with your quit journey please reach out to one of our Quit Now coaches at 1-877-455-2233. We would be honored to assist you in achieving your goal to live smoke-free. All the best on your Quit Journey Patrica!
Denise Tyggz Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 day 10 hours ago Commented 1 month 1 week ago
Saturday..or..sunday
tallfern Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 month ago Commented 1 month ago
I second Saturday or Sunday
bettycrisante Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 weeks 2 days ago Commented 3 weeks ago
Yes Saturday or Sunday
eddie georgio Log in or register to post comments
Quit 2 weeks 4 days ago Commented 6 days 17 hours ago
Saturday or Sunday for me too. 11 days no smoking no nicotine
QuitCoach Chiharu
Quit 8 years 8 months ago posted 26 min 53 sec ago
When it comes to quitting smoking, one of the hurdles is managing the inner dialogue we have with ourselves. Negative thoughts may creep in for some people, making us doubt our ability to quit or question whether we are ready for such a change. But the truth is, those thoughts are not a reflection of our actual capabilities—they are simply a part of the process, and we have the power to reframe them.
First, deciding to quit smoking is a courageous and empowering choice for you to make. It is important to recognize the strength it takes to even consider this change, and every step you take, even the difficult ones, brings you closer to success. When those negative thoughts arise—whether it is doubt, fear, frustration, or even feeling overwhelmed—try to pause and ask yourself: "What is this thought really telling me?". Often, negative thoughts come from a place of fear or uncertainty, not from a lack of ability. By reframing these thoughts, we can turn them into opportunities for growth and self-compassion. For example: - Instead of thinking, "I will never be able to quit smoking, it is too hard," try reframing that as, "Quitting is challenging, but I have already made the decision to quit, and I am strong enough to handle the tough moments." - When a craving hits and the thought is, "I need a cigarette right now," reframe that as, "This craving is uncomfortable, but it will pass, and each time I overcome it, I am taking back control of my life." By shifting the narrative, you remind yourself of your resilience and the fact that setbacks are part of the journey. No one expects perfection, and you certainly do not have to quit smoking in a flawless, linear way. What matters is your commitment to keep trying, to keep going, and to show up for yourself even when those negative thoughts want to pull you down.
It is also important to celebrate your wins, no matter how small they may seem. Each craving resisted, each day without smoking, is a victory worth acknowledging. These moments are proof of your determination and strength. Remember, you have already made the brave decision to quit smoking, which shows that you are capable of incredible things. Every time you reframe a negative thought, you are reminding yourself of your power and taking one more step toward a healthier, smoke-free life. You have the strength to do this. Keep going, and trust that you are on the right path. Every thought you reframe and every step you take is bringing you closer to the life you want!
cando
Quit 2 years 9 months ago posted 1 day 18 hours ago
Hi All, I quit in january of 2022. I have not relapsed, yea! I still live with cravings here and there, mostly due to stressors.
I wanted to come on here and say how much I appreciated quitnow.ca. At the time that I quit, I did so because I knew it was affecting my health. Three or four months after I quit, I found out that I had a stroke somewhere in 2020. That fact really helped with my dedication to quit as I care for vulnerable individuals who need me alive and well.
I didn't utilize all of the community posting aspects but when I did, the positivity and support was beautiful. No judgement. Love that for anyone on the journey to quitting smoking.
A big shout out to all the staff who were there for me, and this community for all the support and care. Stay strong and be kind to yourself.
4 Comments last reply 17 hours ago
Quit Coach Linda Log in or register to post comments
Quit 9 years 8 months ago Commented 1 day 17 hours ago
Hi Cando, Wow, what an incredible achievement—congratulations on being smoke-free for nearly 3 years! Your story is truly inspiring, especially how you've used your health scare as a driving force to stay dedicated to quitting. It’s amazing to hear how you’ve remained strong even when cravings pop up, particularly during stressful times. Your story is a great reminder that the quit journey is ongoing, and it’s okay to face stress or cravings as long as you stay focused on the bigger picture. The fact that you care for vulnerable individuals who rely on you is such a powerful motivator, and your resilience is admirable. It’s also heartwarming to see how the support from QuitNow community helped you along the way, even if you didn’t utilize every feature. It’s great to know that the positivity and non-judgmental support had such an impact. Thank you so much for sharing your story and sending such an uplifting message to others on this journey. Stay strong, and wishing you continued strength on your journey, and thank you for reminding us all to stay kind to ourselves along the way!
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 1 day 12 hours ago
So commendable , thanks for dropping in and sharing this! Very inspiring to continue the journey. Yeah this community is very valuable , a great resource.
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 19 hours 26 min ago
Congrats Cando👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 months 3 weeks ago Commented 17 hours 5 min ago
Amazing Cando. You are such an inspiration.
QuitCoach Keri
Quit 23 years 7 months ago posted 2 days 22 hours ago
Quitting smoking/vaping is one of the most challenging yet rewarding things you can do for yourself. It's not just about breaking a habit; it's about reclaiming control over your health, your mind, and your life.

Here are a few reminders for those moments that feel unbearable.

First, you are stronger than that urge to smoke. Cravings may feel powerful, but they are temporary. Every time you resist and overcome that urge you build strength, confidence, and resilience. Second, slips can happen. Take your progress over perfection. Don't allow a setback to undo all the hard work you have put in. Take aim, and refocus. Learn from it, and keep moving forward. Last, I want you to celebrate every single milestone. Whether it be one hour, one day, one week, or one month; every victory counts. Acknowledge your progress and celebrate no matter how small it seems. It's those small steps that get you to the life you aspire.

Remember, quitting smoking is not an event; it's a process that is rarely linear. Take it one day at a time. Believe in yourself. Especially when it feels hard. You've got this. Keep going. Your future self is thanking you already.
1 Comment last reply 2 days ago
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 2 days 18 hours ago
Awesome post very motivational ty! 💚
keithharnden
Quit 1 week 4 days ago posted 3 days 19 hours ago
i've smoked 'unapologetically' for 54 years. i've known for a very long time it was no good. i've had health issues and my doctor has repeatedly told me i need to quit. and i've tried in the past but with zero success. i've just never believed i could quit. today i am on my 14th day without smoking. i've taken time off work to deal with this. i drive a cab in vancouver and can't imagine driving a cab without smoking (i keep all the windows down, i keep the cigarette OUTSIDE the car and i always keep air freshner). I STILL HAVE A VERY HARD TIME BELIEVING/IMAGINING THAT I CAN ACTUALLY DO THIS. note: i am a nearly 25 year sober alcoholic/pot head but that stuff ain't got nothing on the cigarettes.
3 Comments last reply 3 days ago
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 3 days 19 hours ago
Hi keithharnden, thank you for sharing your quit journey so far with us on the community forum, and welcome. Congratulations on being smoke-free for 1 week now. That is a great milestone to have achieved! I am so happy to hear that you have taken the time off to prioritize you, your health, and your ability to achieve your goal without added stressors of work at the moment. You have proven to yourself that you are absolutely capable of living smoke-free. You have found the motivation to quit, and have successfully used strategies to overcome the cravings and triggers so far. I hope this starts to build on your confidence that your goal is achievable and you are worthy of the life you aspire to live. Congratulations on your sobriety keithharnden, if you want any additional support with a Quit Coach please give us a call at 1-877-455-2233. I would love if you continued to share in your quit journey. I hope you find strength, inspiration, and motivation from your peers and coaches on our forum. All the best in your continued success.
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 3 days 17 hours ago
You are amazing keithharnden! Yes, this is a difficult habit to let go of, but it can be done and you are doing it 🎉🎉🎉🎉. I am very proud of you 🤗
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 months 3 weeks ago Commented 3 days 15 hours ago
Congratulations……when u have those moments of doubt just say nope…..not one puff ever! It is the hardest habit I agree but the most rewarding one to quit because of it!
eddie georgio
Quit 2 weeks 4 days ago posted 4 days 14 hours ago
Well I've gotten through a solid 13 days no nicotine and today I did not experience the anxiety and yucky feelings. Had a very physical day and it's seems like that's what helps me. I told myself when I was at three days that I had to not pick up for 30 days so that at that time I will really see if not smoking us too hard. Today was easy. Amazing. I have had some depression I think but I think in time that will go but no withdrawal. Thank you everyone for your encouragement.
Its been kerping me set on my goal. Getting excited now to be a true non smoker and hopefully will love it.
3 Comments last reply 3 days ago
QuitCoach Elke Log in or register to post comments
Quit 30 years 6 months ago Commented 4 days 13 hours ago
Hi Eddie, so happy to hear you had an easy day with your quit! 20 minutes of moderate physical activity can release dopamine, which is what is happening when people smoke or vape. The release of dopamine makes us feel good and can help to improve mood. When people quit smoking/vaping, they may experience lower mood temporarily. Once the brain has adjusted not getting those boosts of nicotine (which might take 2-3 months), your mood should improve again. By the way, if you were experiencing increased anxiety, this is a quite common withdrawal symptom and will subside. Keep your excitement, as things will get better down the road! You do this!
Wishing you continuous success with your nicotine free life!
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 3 days 17 hours ago
Go Eddie 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 months 3 weeks ago Commented 3 days 15 hours ago
Congratulations Eddie! Keep at it. It gets easier and the moods lift over time.
AndrewG
Quit 1 week ago posted 4 days 23 hours ago
I’ve been smoking for 25 years and started when I was just 15 years old. This is my fourth attempt to quit. The first and second were just around a couple of months, 5 & 4 years ago, respectively. The third attempt was 3,5 years ago when I stopped for 8 months. God merciful, give me strength and patience not to fail this time.
11 Comments last reply 4 days ago
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 4 days 22 hours ago
Hi AndrewG, thank you for sharing in your Quit Journey with our online community forum. Congratulations on achieving your goal to live smoke-free successfully for almost 3 days now. Every time you attempt to quit you gain new insight into your triggers and cravings, as well as how you can work to overcome them. Those previous attempts were all quite successful in providing you greater experience on how to overcome your addiction. You sound very motivated and committed to wanting to live a smoke-free life AndrewG. I hope you find inspiration and motivation from your peers and coaches here on the forum. I wish you all the success you desire. We believe in you AndrewG!
AndrewG Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 week ago Commented 4 days 22 hours ago
Thank you, Keri, for the kind words of support and encouragement. This time, I’m motivated purely by the community of Whistler, BC, and the overall attitude of Canadians toward smoking. It’s unbearable how much smoking is frowned upon here and how much just a handful of people are still smoking cigarettes. The constant need to keep my distance and even hide to have a puff is so humiliating that I just can’t stand it anymore.
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 4 days 22 hours ago
Hi AndrewG, you are so very welcome for the support and encouragement. I know you will find so many of your peers that will also be supportive of your journey. I am sorry to hear that you are finding your community to be unbearable in their reaction to your addiction. Societal attitudes toward smoking have definitely evolved over time and will most likely continue to do so. I hope you take this feeling and make it work to motivate you to allow yourself to live a happier, healthier life that you have set the goal to achieve. So far you are doing it and have sought the support for yourself from a group that can quite honestly empathize with your thoughts and feelings. I am so happy you found our little online community AndrewG.
AndrewG Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 week ago Commented 4 days 22 hours ago
🙏🏻 and please understand me correctly; I’m not complaining about the community; instead, I’m grateful for the pressure applied to me because it gives me hope that this time might be different, namely, so far I didn't succeed in doing it either for myself or for my family. I know that it sounds terrible and ridiculous, but that’s just me being stubborn and silly.
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 4 days 21 hours ago
That is a fantastic, positive way to use this energy to support your motivation to quit AndrewG. Now you have additional inspiration to keep you motivated to quit; for you, your family, and your community. Way to go AndrewG!
AndrewG Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 week ago Commented 4 days 21 hours ago
❤️🫡
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 4 days 19 hours ago
AndrewG … you can do this! You already have a couple of days in, so stay focussed and utilize everything this program has to offer to help you! I honestly never believed that I could stop smoking but I too was tired of feeling less than around all of my non smoking friends and family … this time will be the last time for you I just know it! 🤗
AndrewG Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 week ago Commented 4 days 18 hours ago
Thank you, Liz; your comment arrived just in the nick of time and took my thoughts into replying to you instead of killing somebody for a cigarette 🤦🏻‍♂️
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 4 days 18 hours ago
It will get easier as time passes. The beginning part sucks … but you won’t die from withdrawal. There is a video on YouTube called tobacco wars. It’s an oldie but very informative and something great to watch when you are feeling weak.
AndrewG Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 week ago Commented 4 days 18 hours ago
🙏🏻 I’ll check it out!
Kasia Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 weeks 5 days ago Commented 4 days 17 hours ago
Way to go making a positive change in your life! If others can do it I know I can too. I totally get that feeling of having to hide it/keep distance/humiliation here in BC; I call it the active province (I'm from the UK and grew up with everyone smoking in houses etc) so moving here 26 years ago was a big change. This is why I moved to vaping 4 years ago but that is a whole other dark demon so twisted and conniving I can't believe I fell for it. But here we are, wanting to be healthier better versions of ourselves, with tons of support and love from this community. One day at a time, one moment at a time, you got this AndrewG!
Quit Coach Linda
Quit 9 years 8 months ago posted 5 days 3 hours ago
Why do we miss smoking even after many months without tobacco? It is completely normal to feel the urge to smoke, even several months after quitting. This can be due to several reasons:

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance. Even though physical withdrawal symptoms decrease over time, the brain may still crave nicotine. The neural circuits related to pleasure and reward can remain sensitive to nicotine for a while, causing cravings even months later.

Smoking is often associated with specific habits or situations, such as drinking coffee, after a meal, or coping with stress. These triggers can persist long after quitting and create a sense of missing something when you find yourself in these situations, as your brain still associates them with smoking.

Cigarettes may have served as a coping mechanism for emotions like stress, anxiety, or even boredom. After quitting, these emotions can be more challenging to manage without the "crutch" that cigarettes provided. The sense of emptiness or longing can linger because your mind remembers the temporary relief that cigarettes used to bring.

Your brain may idealize the memory of smoking, focusing only on the perceived positives (pleasure, relaxation) while minimizing the negatives (health risks, odor, cost). This distortion can make the memory of smoking more appealing, even after a long time.

Periods of stress, fatigue, or life changes can reignite the desire to smoke. It is often during these vulnerable moments that old habits or cravings may reappear.

Tobacco addiction is both physical and psychological. Even after the physical dependence has disappeared, the psychological aspect can persist for a long time. The memories associated with smoking can be deeply ingrained, and the feeling of wanting a cigarette can resurface unexpectedly.

Remember that every craving you overcome brings you closer to complete freedom from smoking. Over time, these cravings will become less frequent and less intense. You’ve already come a long way, so keep moving forward with confidence! You can do it!
2 Comments last reply 1 day ago
Beeswax Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 year 5 months ago Commented 1 day 23 hours ago
Thank you for posting this. I find at times that I really am tempted to have 'one', my go-to thought is the 'one ' thing that cigarettes really made me mad at. For me, it was that it took away my freedom. Having 'one' to me, means going back into that locked cage that I worked so hard to get out of. Like a fish on a hook, don't take the bait. Swim away and be happy.
Quit Coach Linda Log in or register to post comments
Quit 9 years 8 months ago Commented 1 day 20 hours ago
Hi Beeswax, thank you so much for sharing and congratulations on reaching 1 year and 5 months smoke-free! That’s such an incredible accomplishment! We love the way you describe the temptation as a “bait” and how you’ve reframed the thought of having "just one." It’s so true—having that one cigarette would be like stepping back into the cage we fought so hard to escape. Your analogy of being like a fish on a hook is so powerful. It reminds us that even when the urge hits, we have the freedom to choose to swim away and embrace the freedom we've gained. Your insight is really valuable, especially for anyone who might be struggling with those sneaky cravings that pop up even after months or years. It’s a great reminder that smoking isn’t just about the physical act but about reclaiming control over our lives. Thanks again for sharing your strength and perspective—it’s a real inspiration! Keep going strong and cheers to your continued success!
Kasia
Quit 3 weeks 5 days ago posted 5 days 18 hours ago
I can't believe I'm one day shy of 3 weeks! Where did the time go? My workouts have been cough/irritant free, my energy is fantastic and I'm beginning to take deeper breaths. Saying that, I am also getting very very tired in the afternoons, I want to sleep forever and I'm now sweating at night (but that could also be my peri-menopausal symptoms creeping back). I do feel irritable at time and still very emotional; I expect this to go on for a while, as others confirmed this experience also. I'm so glad the cravings are way less intense and the only thing that bothers me is when my mind thinks about "it" and then I get annoyed and do the "D's".
5 Comments last reply 4 days ago
QuitCoach Chiharu Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 years 8 months ago Commented 5 days 17 hours ago
Hi Kasia, congratulations on reaching almost three weeks without smoking! It is remarkable how quickly the time has passed, and it is clear that you have made significant progress. The improvements in your breathing, energy levels, and workouts are clear indicators of the positive changes taking place in your body. At the same time, I recognize that you are navigating some challenges, such as increased fatigue, irritability, and night sweats. These symptoms, while uncomfortable, are often a normal part of the body’s healing process as it adjusts to being smoke-free. Managing these alongside other health factors, such as peri-menopause, may indeed intensify these experiences, but it is important to acknowledge how well you are handling these transitions!

Continue to focus on the positive progress you are making, both physically and emotionally. You are moving steadily toward your goals, and each day brings you closer to a healthier, smoke-free life. Be patient with yourself during the difficult moments, as you are showing great strength and determination throughout this journey!
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 5 days 12 hours ago
Omg Kasia I'm so stoked for you! what wonderful progress this is totally your time. Good work! 🙂
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 months 3 weeks ago Commented 5 days 6 hours ago
Congratulations Kasia for staying strong and NOPE. Stick with it, it gets easier and easier as time goes by!
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 4 days 19 hours ago
Whohoooooo 🎉🎉🎉🎉. Keep gong Kasia 🥳
AndrewG Log in or register to post comments
Quit 1 week ago Commented 4 days 17 hours ago
It’s quite a story you’ve got, Kasia, 🙏🏻 for sharing-much appreciated ❤️
cassandraneilson
Quitting in 1 month 3 weeks posted 6 days 2 hours ago
Does being a smoker make you immoral? I feel like a bad person when I smoke. I feel ashamed. Sometimes it seems with the people I see regularly no one will support me when I'm struggling with smoking. If I tell people I quit, they are ecstatic and supportive, if I say I'm struggling and not succeeding in reducing smoking people go quiet and change the subject.

The problem with this is it is conditional love and it just makes me want to smoke more. I need people to accept and support me in good times and bad. That is what authentic love is compared to conditional love. I can't change people like my parents and aquainteances. There is lots of authentic love on the forum and that is why I post so much. Bless the Quit Coaches and fellow forum members. Thank you everyone for your love. Be strong today, don't worry about tomorrow.
2 Comments last reply 5 days ago
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 6 days 1 hour ago
it's a great point! definitely happens

for me it ended up steering my quit into a real 1 on 1 thing with myself and online support. now I don't tell people I even quit I just don't smoke. I had to learn that so many times though and it can be a piece of conversation tho too so ☺️

so many factors when quitting..

Bless you and have a great day 💚
QuitCoach Chiharu Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 years 8 months ago Commented 5 days 23 hours ago
Hi cassandraneilson, I want to first acknowledge your honesty and vulnerability in sharing how you feel about your smoking and the reactions of others. It is clear that you are working through not just the physical challenges of smoking, but the emotional and relational ones as well. Feeling ashamed or unsupported during moments of struggle can be incredibly difficult, but it does not mean that you are a bad person or immoral for smoking. Your self-awareness about seeking unconditional support is very important. Everyone deserves to feel accepted, not just when things are going well, but also during difficult times. It is understandable that when people go quiet or change the subject, it can feel as though their love or support is conditional. However, the fact that you are seeking out communities like this forum, where you feel truly supported and understood, is an important and positive step. It shows that you know what authentic love and support feel like, and that is what you deserve. Quitting smoking is a journey, and like any journey, there will be ups and downs. You are allowed to struggle, and it is perfectly okay not to be perfect every day. That does not diminish your value or the progress you have made. Your awareness of how conditional love impacts you, and your ability to seek out spaces where you feel validated, reflect your strength and resilience. Remember, the desire for authentic love and support is both human and healthy. The way you continue to engage with this supportive community is a powerful and empowering action, and it demonstrates that you are taking control of your journey, even when things feel difficult. You are not alone, and you deserve to be supported at every stage of this process, whether in good times or bad. Stay strong, and remain focused on today. You are doing a great job!
eddie georgio
Quit 2 weeks 4 days ago posted 6 days 17 hours ago
I am 11 days completely nicotine free. This very moment I feel amazing and empowered. I have had the withdrawal anxiety that feels like it's in my stomach and have though I would give up but I swore to myself I had to go 30 days no smoking to see if it's still.hard with the withdrawal. I must say I think I look much better and my workout strength and endurance is incredibly improved in just this many days. I almost have too much energy and a little afraid how much being a non smoker will change how I live my life. Feel amazing right now zero withdrawal. Hang in there everyone.
4 Comments last reply 5 days ago
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 6 days 15 hours ago
Keep going Eddie you are doing amazing 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 6 days 1 hour ago
that's incredible! haha yah when we regain all that power it can be a lot totally understand 💙
QuitCoach Chiharu Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 years 8 months ago Commented 5 days 23 hours ago
Hi Eddie, congratulations on being 11 days completely nicotine-free! That is an impressive accomplishment, and it is clear that you are fully committed to your journey. It is also wonderful to hear that you are already noticing improvements in your physical endurance and overall health! These positive changes are a testament to the benefits of the hard work you are putting in. Feeling empowered and energized is a great sign that your body is responding well to this transition. It is also completely natural to feel a bit uncertain about how becoming a non-smoker will change your life. That extra energy you are experiencing is a sign of your body healing and adapting, and while it may feel unfamiliar now, it also offers you the chance to explore new, healthy habits and routines. Keep focusing on how good you feel now, and let that motivate you in the days ahead. You are making fantastic progress, and your journey is inspiring to others who are going through similar challenges. Keep going—this is a significant achievement!
cassandraneilson Log in or register to post comments
Quitting in 1 month 3 weeks Commented 5 days 12 hours ago
Hi eddie. I related well to your post. When I'm able to reduce my smoking, I get all kinds of energy and it scares me a little because I'm not used to feeling good and having energy. Like Chiharu says it's an excellent time to find new, healthier things to do with all that extra energy. I also, too, feel strong and confident and calm too when I don't smoke much. Improved mental health is one of the great benefits of quitting, at least that's my experience and articles on the internet say so also. Keep exercising and keep your quit going strong!
Redress
Quit 1 week ago posted 6 days 19 hours ago
I started at 15. Quit numerous times and most effortlessly and for the longest period when I was pregnant. I know that nothing in my life justifies lighting up and I also know that when I'm being beaten down (life altering divorce and abuse), I smoke in a self-destructive manner. But the comfort of smoking when I am addicted is too hard to turn away from. But I need to quit today. I will. I am committing myself to a life that is smoke free and healthy.
4 Comments last reply 5 days ago
QuitCoach Emilie Log in or register to post comments
Thinking about quitting Commented 6 days 18 hours ago
Hi Redress!

Thank you for sharing with us today and congratulations on making this life changing decision for yourself! Sounds like you very much deserve this. Your vulnerability and ability to share so openly is so appreciated here as I am sure your situation may resonate with others as well. In this process treating yourself with kindness will go a long way. So please feel free to reach out to us if you need any additional supports.

This is a fantastic first step and we cannot way to see where this positive journey will take you!
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 11 months ago Commented 6 days 15 hours ago
Stay focussed redress … you have done this before and this time you are choosing self love over addiction - how beautiful is that ❤️. I am cheering you on 🤗
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 6 days 1 hour ago
All the best on your journey ! Today is a good day 😌
cassandraneilson Log in or register to post comments
Quitting in 1 month 3 weeks Commented 5 days 11 hours ago
Hi Redress. Giving up cigarettes is hard when they have been something soothing in times of pain. You are making the right decision to quit smoking. Take it slow and easy. Treat yourself with as much love as you can find. Best of luck and keep everyone posted on how you are making out.
MJ
Quit 8 months 3 weeks ago posted 1 week 1 day ago
When I quit 8 months ago I added about 10 pounds in weight very quickly which was my fault because I didn't want pharmaceutical replacements so I chose to fill the void with food. I am a very good eater, however, so my food was not processed. There were no trips to fast food restaurants. Still I packed it on. I also think your cortisol levels rise and that can be challenging for a post menopause woman! Happy to announce that I have now lost 14 pounds so I am thinner than when I smoked, so about 8 months of craziness for me before the weight would come off. All worth it. I believe the reason it has come off is that my cortisol levels have been kept in check for the past few months (I barely think about smoking now) and the very consistent walking (45 mins most days), plus the 2 x at the gym per week. Just wanted to share that the weight will come off with a bit of consistency later on if you are experiencing any of that. Don't be alarmed.
4 Comments last reply 1 day ago
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 1 week ago
Hi MJ, thank you for this very thoughtful, insightful post about your quit journey to date. We are so very proud of you and your achievement of living happily, smoke-free for 8 months and 2 weeks. Such an amazing goal to have achieved MJ. I appreciate your transparent reflection on how you managed your cravings and withdrawal symptoms throughout your quit, as well as sharing your reasons on making this choice for yourself. I so appreciate your perspective on how smoking and quitting impacted your cortisol levels. This is such a personal insight to value for yourself. I am so pleased you have yeilded such amazing results, all the while managing your food cravings and weight in a way you now feel so proud of accomplishing. Your consistency in moving your body and checking in with yourself and managing stress levels without smoking is a great achievement. Please continue to share in your journey MJ; you are an inspiration to our QuitNow community.
cassandraneilson Log in or register to post comments
Quitting in 1 month 3 weeks Commented 1 week ago
Hi MJ, Great news about your experiences with losing weight after putting on weight when you were in the early times of quitting. I also like that you are exercising. What a super way to improve your health. Keep up the great work!
Bseaton Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 months ago Commented 6 days 2 hours ago
Beautiful so good to hear :) so much more energyyy
Stanley Log in or register to post comments
Quit 3 years 5 months ago Commented 1 day 5 hours ago
Hi MJ,

you did a great job for yourself. Congrats you smoke-free for 8 eight months and 3 weeks. 8 months will barely think of smoking. Keeping exercise will help you stay fit and healthy.

Cheer you up and KEEP NOPE

Stand firm in saying No to Nicodemon
cassandraneilson
Quitting in 1 month 3 weeks posted 1 week 2 days ago
Update: today, my parents and I went to what will be their new home in November, an apartment in a seniors residence. We were there 4 hours and I went out once for a cigarette.

Their new place, I think, is going to work out just great for me with reducing smoking. There is lots to do instead of smoking and going out for a smoke is uncomfortable.

Before today, I've been in a bit of a depression about my parents moving from their house of 35 years into a small apartment. Today, I felt better about things. I hope the depression is gone for awhile. I guess I've just been sad about losing the life I knew at my parents house. Because I go over to their place every morning and stay till noon their moving has meant me moving too. It will probably take some more time to get used to the change, maybe more emotions to go through, we'll see.

My parents have told me nothing will change, I can still go over to their apartment for every morning. I hope it works out. Take care everyone and be strong.
1 Comment last reply 1 week ago
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 7 months ago Commented 1 week 2 days ago
Hi cassandraneilson, I want to commend you on taking these necessary steps in your life with bravery, insight, and courage. Change often comes with uncomfortable feelings; just like quitting smoking. Through your planning, practice and using the strategies you have learned to manage your stress effectively you will adapt and come to accept that this change has some pretty wonderful benefits that you have pointed out. It's ok to take some time to grieve what was. Once you have done that I encourage you to get excited for the positive changes this brings for you and assisting you in accomplishing your goal to live smoke-free. All the best cassandraneilson.
QuitCoach Keri
Quit 23 years 7 months ago posted 1 week 2 days ago
"Failure is success in progress." Albert Einstein

This is your mid-week reminder that every attempt you make towards achieving your goal to live smoke or vape-free is progress. Use all of the practice, strategies, triumphs and challenges as motivation to keep trying. Your smoke-free, vape-free life is just another step away.