Keeping your hands busy

Many smokers find the rituals involved with smoking calming and satisfying, and handle cigarettes as a way to feel less self-conscious in public. But of course, there are many alternative things to do with your hands when you quit.

Find other objects to handle - for instance, keep a pen and pad in your pocket or on your desk (pick this up instead and write down your reasons for giving up smoking, or just doodle); hold a real cigarette if the touch is all you miss - but not if handling a cigarette makes you want to light up; don't confuse hunger with the desire to put a cigarette in your mouth - eat regular meals and keep healthy snack foods on hand; and take up a hobby that keeps your hands busy, e.g. painting or wood carving.