Why quit?
Tobacco use is the single most important preventable cause of death in the world. Smoking is related to 87% of lung cancers and increases risk of cancers of the throat, mouth, esophagus, bladder, kidney, cervix, pancreas and colon/rectum. Smoking increases your risk of stroke up to six times and if you take the birth control pill, your risk goes up even more. It is also associated with psoriasis, stomach ulcers and wrinkles. That being said, most smokers are aware of the risks and studies have shown that more than 85% of smokers want to stop. But where do you begin?
Quitting smoking is hard. There is no question it is a difficult process, but there are ways to support yourself through the process.
Tips to quit
- Get motivated to quit by examining what you value. Being clear on your goals and motivation for quitting will help you stick to it.
- Keep track of how much you smoke. It may be happening more than you think. This process will also help you to identify triggers that may become obstacles later.
- Get support by enlisting friends and family to help. See your family physician or naturopathic doctor for ideas and support. (Consider the Naturopathic Smoking Cessation Program).
- Take control and go for it. Prepare a plan of action and then go ahead and do it.
Elements of the Smoking Cessation program
Counselling Evaluating the client’s smoking patterns and behaviours, and providing solutions for triggers. Providing helpful tips to avoid relapses and coping with withdrawal.
Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine Acupuncture acts to balance your energy overall. It can help by minimizing both physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms. Acupuncture points are chosen based on your individual health picture as well as points focused on addiction. Chinese herbal formulas complement the acupuncture treatment by providing additional support through withdrawal and aid in the restoration of lung health.
Western herbal medicine Herbal formulas are introduced by our Vernon naturopathic doctors
to support you through withdrawal and aid in adaptation to the change in physiology from the lack of nicotine. They can help calm the nervous system in a way that both provides energy and reduces the urge to smoke.
Homeopathy Used as needed for cravings.
Nutrition Vitamin and mineral formulas to replace nutrients lost during smoking as well as antioxidant support to minimize damage to cells exposed to harmful chemicals in cigarettes.
Commitment The program involves seven sessions over fours weeks, and it includes five acupuncture treatments. The program is priced as a package that results in the total cost being reduced compared to paying for the individual sessions.
Are you ready to get lasting, natural support to quit smoking?
Click here to book your appointment today and let’s get started.
