Deciding to give up the smokes is no easy feat.

If you’ve been following my journey, you’ll know that I’ve had my ups and my downs. Last week I discussed the ups which have really encouraged me to stay smoke-free. That being said, it’s a bumpy road and I would be a huge liar if I said the cravings to run outside and light up didn’t still pop up frequently. Finding the right course of action to dealing with cravings is personal to each former-smoker. What works for me could differ for you but I found a few key ways to keep the cravings at bay. When I am sitting at my desk and feel the urge creep up I firstly try to distract myself. According to Quit.ie, a nicotine craving will peak for 3-5 minutes. When I’m in the grasps of one I distract myself by thinking of Mufasa saying “This Too Shall Pass” in his deep lion voice. I know that’s not actually a Lion King quote but whenever I need extra inspiration I like to think of Mufasa consoling me. Like I said, what works for me may not work for you, but do give it a go. If that doesn’t work, I delay by listening to a song or by watching my favourite scene from a movie. By the time it’s over the urge to smoke has subsided. My go-to is the final musical scene from Sister Act 2 when Lauryn Hill finally wins the approval of her mother. It’s touching. If I’m elsewhere and find myself wistfully wishing I was smoking, I try focus on my breathing. It sounds daft but taking ten deep breaths helps me not only focus but it often calms me and I find myself in a much clearer headspace. Keeping a bottle of water to hand is also crucial to kick the cravings. Taking a gulp really helps reduce the intensity of the craving. If these sound insufficient to you, try nicotine replacement therapy. Nicotine patches, gum, inhalers, lozenges, sprays and oral strips are all readily available and can help deal with the more intense moments of desire. With each passing day smoke-free, the cravings become less and less influential and the benefits of life without cigarettes continue to increase. By Cassie Delaney. Physical withdrawals from nicotine are temporary but can be uncomfortable while they last. Our QUIT Team are specially trained to support you through the quitting process. If you want to talk to an advisor about quitting call the HSE QUIT Team on 1800 201 203 or FREETEXT 'QUIT' to 50100.