4 tips to manage holiday stress tobacco-free

  • Published
  • 72nd Air Base Wing Health Promotions

Navigating the holidays without tobacco can be challenging, but not impossible. Make sure you are prepared to fight the urge to use tobacco with these four tips:

1. Treat your body well. The holidays are often filled with busy schedules and obligations. Instead of turning to tobacco, give your body what it needs to manage holiday stress more easily. Sleep between 7-9 hours every day when possible, eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated.

2. Make time for you. Overextending yourself can lead to stress. Stress can lead to tobacco cravings, and in some cases, relapse. Take time to relax and de-stress. Your mental well-being and a successful quit should take priority.

3. Take a step back. The holidays can be merry, but they can also cause anxiety. If you are feeling frazzled or stressed, excuse yourself for a moment. Go on a walk or text a friend to clear your head so you can deal with concerns without turning to tobacco.

4. Share your accomplishments. Celebrate how far you’ve come on your quit tobacco journey with someone you love this holiday season. Your parents, siblings, friends, significant other or wingman will love hearing what you’ve already done and what tobacco-free goals you set for 2019.