Transitioning away from smoking can be quite a challenge, but who says you have to do it alone? Here are 10 practical steps to guide you on your lung health and wellness journey.
Quitting smoking is a truly transformative journey that not only improves your overall health but also strengthens your lungs, setting you on the path to a healthier future. The healing process starts as soon as you quit smoking, with noticeable improvements happening in a relatively short period of time.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology at CK Birla Hospital in Gurgaon, shared some insights into the quitting process. He mentioned that within 12 hours of stubbing out your last cigarette, carbon monoxide levels in the blood go back to normal, enhancing the flow of oxygen in your blood and kickstarting the restoration process. Amazingly, within just one year, the risk of having a heart attack significantly decreases.
Dr. Grover also revealed that the benefits continue to compound over time. In two to five years, the risk of stroke can decrease to that of a non-smoker. Perhaps the most inspiring milestone comes at the 10-year mark where the risk of dying from lung cancer is cut in half. These remarkable health improvements serve as powerful incentives to break free from the grip of smoking addiction.
Here are some practical tips suggested by Dr. Grover to support your journey to lung health and overall wellness:
1. Gradually reduce cigarette consumption to ease withdrawal symptoms and transition to a smoke-free lifestyle.
2. Avoid smoking triggers and engage in new activities to divert your attention from cravings.
3. Consider nicotine replacement therapy like patches or gum to handle nicotine withdrawal.
4. Prioritize stress management by engaging in activities like exercise, meditation, or hobbies.
5. Incorporate chest rehabilitation exercises such as yoga or deep breathing techniques to boost lung function.
Saurabh Bothra, CEO and Certified Yoga Instructor at Habuild, also shares his expertise on how to quit smoking and strengthen your lungs with these five additional tips:
1. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water and warm fluids like herbal teas.
2. Regularly exercise to strengthen your respiratory muscles and enhance lung capacity.
3. Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, leafy greens, and berries into your diet to support lung health.
4. Practice steam inhalation with essential oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to clear congestion and promote easier breathing.
5. Engage in breathing practices like deep breathing and alternate nostril breathing to expand lung capacity and reduce stress.
Remember to be patient with yourself and celebrate each step forward on your journey to better lung health. Catch more lifestyle news on the Hindustan Times Website and Apps, featuring the latest in fashion, health, travel, and more.