The longer days, warmer weather, and fresh air make summer the perfect season to build new habits that help you stay smokefree. Plus, you’ll start noticing all the little things that feel even better without cigarettes like tasting your food properly, breathing more easily, and having more energy to get out and about.
If you’re wondering how to keep yourself motivated and distracted when you stop smoking, here are 10 simple pleasures to enjoy this summer that are good for your health, your wallet, and your wellbeing.
1. Take a Morning Walk in the Cool Air
Starting your day with a gentle walk helps clear your mind and reduce cravings. When you stop smoking, you’ll soon find walking easier, with less coughing, less breathlessness, and more energy.
2. Enjoy a Refreshing Iced Drink Instead of a Cigarette
Instead of a cigarette break, treat yourself to an ice-cold drink. Water with lemon, homemade iced tea, or fruit smoothies can help replace the hand-to-mouth habit while keeping you hydrated.
3. Watch the Sunrise or Sunset
Stopping to watch the sun rise or set is a simple, mindful way to pause and reflect. It’s a great way to remind yourself how far you’ve come on your stop smoking journey.
4. Try Yoga or Stretching Outdoors
Stopping smoking is easier when you can manage stress and cravings. Yoga or light stretching in your garden or a local park helps you relax, breathe deeply, and reconnect with your body.
5. Spend a Day at the Beach or Park
A day outdoors can work wonders for your mood, especially when you’re not constantly thinking about your next cigarette. Whether it’s a swim in the sea or a picnic in the park, fresh air helps you feel good smokefree.
6. Cook a New Summer Recipe
When you stop smoking, your taste buds start to recover within days. Take advantage of this by trying a new, healthy summer recipe packed with fresh, local produce. It’s a tasty reminder of the benefits of quitting.
7. Relax with a Good Book in the Sunshine
Reading is a great way to distract your mind and pass the time if cravings strike. Find a shady spot, grab a book (or an audiobook or podcast), and let yourself get lost in a good story.
8. Plan a Picnic with Family or Friends
Stopping smoking can change how you socialise, but in a good way. Organise a picnic and enjoy time with loved ones without the need for cigarette breaks. You’ll feel more present and connected.
9. Go Stargazing on a Clear Night
Looking up at a star-filled sky can be calming and inspiring. It’s a quiet, peaceful way to spend time in nature and a lovely way to mark another smokefree day.
10. Explore Somewhere New
Whether it’s a new walking trail, a nearby town, or a nature reserve, exploring helps keep your mind off cravings. Plus, being smokefree means you’ll have more energy and more money for little adventures.
More Support to Stop Smoking this Summer
Stopping smoking is one of the best decisions you’ll ever make for your health, your future, and your bank balance. And with summer on your side, it’s a little easier to stay active, social, and distracted from cravings.
If you need help to stop smoking, we’re here to help with free, friendly support including personalised advice, nicotine replacement therapies, and tips to help you stay quit for good.
To get started, just click here
