Last updated on July 28th, 2022 at 01:54 pm

The new year offers an opportunity to set new goals. And quitting smoking is at the top of many people’s lists.

According to the CDC, almost 40 million adults in the U.S. still smoke tobacco. If you’re one of them and want to quit or know someone who does, consider these steps to help be smoke-free in 2019.

Make a plan. Proper planning will set the foundation for your success. Pick your quit date and stick to it. Consider picking a time that makes sense for you — a day when you know you’ll be relaxed and free from temptation. On your quit day, dispose of your cigarettes, lighters, ashtrays, and matches to avoid relapsing.

Keep busy. When trying to quit, it can be even tougher if you’re bored and thoughts turn toward smoking. Keep your hands and mind busy by going for a walk, playing a game, or doodling. If you miss the feeling of having a cigarette in your mouth, try chewing on flavored toothpicks or coffee stirrers instead.

Stay positive.  Quitting is difficult, but positive thinking can make it easier. Celebrate small victories, like going 24 hours without a puff. If you’re having a particularly rough moment, focus on all the benefits you’ve gained just by stopping — reduced risk of heart disease, fresh breath, and more money — just to name a few!

Get help. Kicking the habit can be challenging without help. There are a number of smoking cessation programs available for free online or by phone.

Consider homeopathy. Harsh side effects from nicotine withdrawal can thwart progress, but homeopathic medicines can help with these issues.

For nausea from tobacco withdrawal, Lobelia inflata 6C can help provide relief.* Use Nux vomica 30C  if you’re experiencing irritability, nausea, and digestive troubles that often accompany smoking cessation.* Quitting can be a very tense and nerve-racking time. Ignatia amara 30C, made from the St. Ignatius bean, is good to have on hand to relieve symptoms of stress with hypersensitivity to pain and smell and improved by distraction.*

To help you find the right homeopathic medicine for kicking the habit and other health concerns, explore our free Medicine Finder app.

* Claims based on traditional homeopathic practice, not accepted medical evidence. Not FDA evaluated.