New Year’s Resolutions Blog

February 9th, 2007

France Joins the Stop Smoking Campaign

On Thursday, February 1, France became the latest country to ban smoking in public places. Fearing a change that may alter the image of a country defined in part by its smoky cafes and cigarette-puffing intellectuals, some are not impressed!

 

France’s 15 million smokers will be banned from lighting up in workplaces, schools, airports, hospitals and other “closed and covered” public places. More than 175,000  agents are to enforce the ban, handing out fines of $88 for smokers and $174 for employers who look the other way.

 In a year, the ban will extend to cafes and restaurants - sure to be the moment of truth for a certain image of France, where writers like Albert Camus and Jean-Paul Sartre are remembered with cigarettes dangling from their mouths.

Statistics, like 66,000 smoker deaths per year in France, and changing norms are snuffing out the romance along with the cigarette. Italy, Spain, Belgium, Britain and Ireland are all ahead of France in enacting broad smoking bans.

Nearly a quarter of French people are smokers. Yet, a day before the “no smoking” signs go up, there was no sign of panic in the streets. So far, smokers are calm, with no pre-ban rush for smokers’ aids like nicotine patches. However, two companies that make ventilated smoking rooms for offices say they are gearing up for a rush in orders.

For those lacking sufficient inner strength to break the habit, the government will help by reimbursing up to $65 per person per year for stop smoking aids. It will also allow companies to invest in strictly regulated special smoking rooms inside the workplace. I don’t think we have those here, do we?

I was curious about the ventilated smoking rooms and here is what Ameraicans for Non-Smokers Rights has to say on the subject:

“Providing for separately ventilated smoking rooms - There is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke, and there is no known ventilation system that will prevent secondhand smoke from permeating nonsmoking areas and adversely affecting people in those areas. Moreover, separately ventilated smoking rooms offer no protection for employees who work in those rooms and may even exacerbate their situation by concentrating all the smoking into one place. Even if no employee is required to work in a separately ventilated smoking room, the people who clean it will be exposed to the secondhand smoke.”

We now know that 53,800 people die every year from secondhand smoke exposure. This number is based on the midpoint numbers for heart disease deaths (48,500), lung cancer (3,000) and SIDS deaths (2,300) as calculated in the 1997 California EPA Report on Secondhand Smoke.

The 2006 Surgeon General’s report on The Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke confirmed the known health effects of secondhand smoke exposure, including immediate adverse effects on the cardiovascular system, and coronary heart disease and lung cancer. The report concluded there is no safe level of exposure.

Secondhand smoke kills. Knowing the science behind it, as well as how smokefree policies protect the public from secondhand smoke, will help cement this in the minds of the pubic.

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

February 6th, 2007

Amusing Ad

This is a real ad for a stop smoking tea. I found it kind of amusing and cute so I thought I’d share it.

The Westlake Stop Smoking Tea

Most people realize that smoking is perfectly harmful from day to day. However, those who are in the habit of smoking always have trouble to stop smoking uneasily. Now, the SST is for you special benefit and makes you to be pleasure.

You may pour a bag of the SST manufacture when you feel tired and think of smoking to refresh yourself. To drink a cup of the SST insteads of smoking, in that case, you will dislike smoking, then get fewer and fewer and stop at last.

Many persons who have smoked for a long time, falter usually when they stop smoking. Then, the SST will be of much help to you. The cigarette is never well when you drink the SST if you smoke as usual. If you can not control yourself but continue smoking, you will feel the pressure on your brow, thus you will have to give up smoking. If you want to continue smoking, you will feel swelling on you head and will turn sick. It is the SST that wake you up to the precious resistance against cigarette, and you will have a dislike for cigarette as if you have never smoked. Do not drink Westlake Tea after you have a chain of cigarettes. It will make you feel sick.

The SST which is based upon the Fog Tea of Tian Mu Mountain of Hangzhou in China, has skillfully compounded. including the strengthening and refreshing elements of the precious beverage, used by the king and royal family in the past time. It has the function to stimulate nerve-center, promote metabolism, build up wasted muscles, heart and kidneys. Thus, it is very useful for you to be free from tired and also to strengthen your health and to work efficiently. The SST is a useful substance without any harm. You will not fall into the habit if you drink the SST for a long time.

The method of pouring SST is as the same as common teabag. During you drink a cup of SST, you should better often plus boiled water till tea is weak and thin. Those who are accustomed to drink strong tea, he may pour a bag of SST together with the other tea. Someone who wants to stop smoking may pour each bag of SST in the morning and in the afternoon. Someone who has an urge to smoke may drink SST 3 or 5 bags every day. In common condition, you can achieve good results as you drink continuously 3 or 4 days. In other words, you may drink 1 to 3 boxes of SST. If you don’t want to smoke after drinking 2 or 3 bags, you may also stop drinking SST until you think of smoking. It is the best results for you to continue drinking SST.

Please, choose to drink as you like.

The ad caught my attention and made me curious about the ingredients in the tea. One of the ingredients is betel nut. I don’t know the side effects of drinking tea made with the betel nut, but in countries where chewing of the nut is traditional, there is an increased incidence of mouth cancer!

I posted this because of the humorous wording, but I think there is also a moral to the story: if you are using a stop smoking aid, be aware of what is in it and any possible side effects!

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

February 5th, 2007

Nine Days In

This is definitely one of the hardest things I’ve ever tried to do. At nine days in, I am still struggling with withdrawal. It’s hard to understand why marijuana, cocaine and other such drugs are illegal, while the demon tobacco is still a legal, highly profitable business here in the U.S.

And smokers are not the only victims. Last week my granddaughter was diagnosed with what her pediatrician believes is asthma. I am so thankful that I did not smoke in the house, nor when she was around. Her Mom also quit and she is almost 3 weeks into it and doing great. My granddaughter was not exposed to smoke in her house either. But, I know if I had been smoking around her, I would feel like I wanted to slash my wrists now. Okay, maybe not that bad, but you know what I am saying. I would certainly be kicking myself over and over again.

But, my point is, if we know that the kids of smokers are being exposed to something so harmful, why is it legal? Add to that the statistics for illness in smokers, which is part of why health care costs are so high, I just don’t think that adding a dollar more per pack is enough to get people to quit. I know that a black market would probably be created as a result of illegalizing cigarettes, but I think it would go a long, long way in getting people to quit.

Do we have the right to force people to quit though? Would offering a tobacco-free alternative be an answer? Something that was not harmful to us or others and not addictive? It’s a hard call.

Anyway, back to my struggle. I’ve already had two arguments with my husband in the past nine days!! I am definitely irritable. Serves him right for saying I wasn’t going to quit, LOL!

Posted in Uncategorized, Your Resolutions
By rubyredshoes

January 26th, 2007

The Gauntlet Has Been Thrown!

I live in Maine where you don’t just walk down to the corner store if you need something. As I’ve mentioned previously, I work from home. The price of gas, being what it is, has caused us to make as few trips to the store as possible.  You are probably wondering why I’m telling you this.  Since my husband works in town, he usually picks up cigarettes for me.

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

January 24th, 2007

Finally, Some Practical Tips

I just came across some really practical help from The American Cancer Society that I’d like to share with our readers who are trying to quit smoking. I found it really helpful because it offers smokers some concrete suggestions and not just generalizations about how to handle withdrawal.

 

So, if you are also trying to quit, I hope you find something useful to help get over those cravings and tough situations.

Things to Do to Get Through Rough Spots After You Stop Smoking

 

For the first few days after you quit smoking, spend as much free time as possible in public places where smoking is not allowed, such as libraries, malls, museums, theaters, restaurants without bars, and churches. 

Don’t drink alcohol, coffee, and other drinks you associate with smoking. Try drinking a variety of other drinks instead. Try different types of waters or fruit juices. This may be the time to indulge in some interesting teas you have never tried. 

If you miss the feeling of having a cigarette in your hand, put a substitute in your hand — a pencil, a paper clip, a coin, or a marble, for example. 

If you miss the feeling of having something in your mouth, try toothpicks, cinnamon sticks, sugarless gum or celery. 

Avoid temptation by staying away from situations you associate with pleasurable smoking. 

Find new habits and create a nonsmoking environment around you. 

Anticipate future situations or crises that might make you want to smoke again, and remind yourself of all the important reasons you have decided to quit. To reinforce these reasons, you may want to put a picture of your children up in your workplace or keep one handy in your purse or wallet. 

Take deep, rhythmic breaths similar to smoking to relax, and picture your lungs filling with fresh, clean air. 

Remember your goal and the fact that the urges to smoke will eventually pass. 

Think positive thoughts about how awesome it is that you are quitting smoking and getting healthy and try to avoid negative ones. 

Brush your teeth and enjoy that fresh taste. 

Do brief bursts of exercise (alternate tensing and relaxing muscles, pushups, deep knee bends, walk up a flight of stairs, or touch your toes). 

Call a supportive friend, family member, or Quitline^® counselor. 

Eat several small meals during the day instead of 1 or 2 large ones. This maintains constant blood sugar levels, which keeps your energy in balance and helps prevent the urge to smoke. Avoid sugary or spicy foods that may trigger a desire for cigarettes. 

Above all, reward yourself. Reward yourself frequently if that’s what it takes to keep going. Plan to do something fun for doing your best.

 

When You Get the “Crazies”

• Keep oral substitutes handy, such as carrots, pickles, apples, celery, raisins, or gum. 
• Take 10 deep breaths, and hold the last one while lighting a match. Exhale slowly and blow out the match. Pretend it is a cigarette and put it out in an ashtray. 
• Take a shower or bath. 
• Learn to relax quickly and deeply. Make yourself go limp. Visualize a soothing, pleasing situation, and get away from it all for a moment. Concentrate on that peaceful image and nothing else. 
• Light incense or a candle, instead of a cigarette. 
• Tell yourself “no.” Say it out loud. Practice doing this a few times, and listen to yourself. Some other things you can say to yourself might be, “I’m too strong to give in to smoking,” “I’m a nonsmoker now,” or “I don’t want to let my friends and family down.” 
• Never allow yourself to think that “one won’t hurt,” because it may. 
• Wear a rubber band around your wrist. Whenever you have a thought about smoking, snap it against your wrist to remind yourself of all the unpleasant reasons that made you want to quit in the first place. Then remember that you will not always need a rubber band to help you stay in line with your plans to quit. Smile at yourself then go get an apple or walk outside and breathe in the fresh air. Or start a conversation with your coworker or neighbor that has nothing to do with you.

Other Ways to Stay Active

You may have a lot of pent-up energy while trying to quit. Consider these activities when you’re looking for something to do besides smoking. Notice how over time these activities are easier to do and how much better you can breathe as you go each day without smoking.

Physical Activities

• walking or jogging
• biking
• hiking
• swimming
• doing aerobics
• going bowling
• playing soccer
• playing tennis
• playing volleyball
• playing softball
• karate or judo
• yoga

Activities Around the Home

• gardening
• cooking, grilling, or baking
• organizing/cleaning out the basement, garage, or attic
• organizing a yard sale
• painting/redecorating rooms
• washing/waxing the car

Going Out

• going fishing, hunting, or camping
• having a picnic
• going shopping
• getting a manicure or pedicure
• going for a leisurely drive
• going to a garage sale or yard sale
• going to a library or bookstore
• going to a museum
• going to the movies

Hobbies and Crafts

• playing (or learning) a musical instrument
• reading a book
• starting a collection (stamps, coins, or shells, for example)
• doing puzzles (crossword or jigsaw)
• starting a journal or scrapbook
• organizing photos
• knitting or sewing
• writing (books, poems, articles, journaling)

Relaxing

• reading a newspaper or magazine
• meditating
• listening to a relaxation tape
• taking a nap
• listening to music

Being With Others

• calling an old friend
• having someone over for dinner or to watch movies
• going out to eat
• joining a group or club
• having a family get-together

If you have a weak moment and slip, don’t panic. Decide to begin again immediately and remind yourself of your commitment to quit. Analyze why you had a setback and learn from it. Here are more tactics that have helped smokers kick the habit:

• Stay positive. After waking up each morning, make the promise you won’t smoke a cigarette that day. A day at a time keeps the whole thing more manageable. 
• Picture your success. Plan ahead and think of how you will deal with stressful situations without turning to your usual crutch of a cigarette. 
• Take a breather. Relaxation exercises can help relieve the urge to smoke. Take a deep breath, hold it for a second, then release it very slowly. Remember, the urge to smoke is only temporary. It will pass. 
• Work out. Physical activity, such as swimming, running, and racquet sports, helps relieve tension and the urge to smoke. Exercise will also burn off any extra pounds. 
• Rely on support. If you’re thinking about reaching for a cigarette, reach for help instead. Ask your friends and family to encourage the new nonsmoking you, reach out to a formal support group, or call a Quitline.

So, that’s it! I really thought there was some great advice here. One of the things I’ve found is that my mouth has never been so clean! I’ve been constantly brushing my teeth and it does help.

In the meantime, I keep plugging along towards my “Q” day, which should be pretty soon now. Good luck to you.

 

 

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

January 23rd, 2007

We’ll Take a Cup of Kindness…

What made me think of this line from Auld Lang Syne happened right here at our blog. How coincidental that it comes from a traditional  New Year song.

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

January 20th, 2007

Progress Report

If you’ve been following along on my resolution to stop smoking, here’s an update. I am out of the closet! I had not “announced” to my family what I was trying to do, but I told my daughter about this blog and she discovered my secret when she visited here. Although I had not spoken my resolution out loud, my hubby did notice that I was not taking the “cigarette breaks” in the evenings.

Yesterday was another really good day, but again, we had a snow day here and I had my granddaughter the whole day. She does not let me out of her sight, so, no smoking! I do have to say though that it was not as hard to abstain as it was when I was smoking more. And, I didn’t make up for it in the evening so I consider it a victory. So, I’m still following my plan and working towards the day when it will be cold turkey for me.

I found this website to be very helpful to me and if you are facing this same struggle, I hope you can too. Good luck!

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

January 20th, 2007

Think You Can Smoke in Your Car?

It depends where you are and who you are with! Starting January 19, Bangor, Maine puts a new ordinance into effect. The police can stop you if you are smoking in your car with a child (under age 18) present. You can be fined $50.
I have to admit that I did this years ago, before we knew so much about second hand smoke and the harmful effects to children. I’m guessing there are still a lot of people smoking with kids around and I’m thinking this ban may help some who are working on their resolution to stop entirely.

I’m not really sure how I feel about this though. It certainly has stirred up a fuss in Bangor! Some see it as a violation of their right to privacy. It does seem to me like the state is stepping on its citizens rights, and that a lot of stepping is directed at smokers. Maine will soon raise the tax on cigarettes to $3.00 a pack, making it the highest in the nation. I’m all for making it easier for people to quit, but this seems like it is forcing them to quit.

Bangor is believed to be the first city to outlaw smoking in cars with children. But Arkansas, Louisiana and Puerto Rico recently enacted similar bans, and at least three other states are considering them: California, Connecticut and Maine, where proponents hope the Bangor ban will be a catalyst for a state law.

At least seven states, including several with large numbers of smokers like Texas, Oklahoma and Alaska, prohibit or sharply restrict smoking around foster children in homes, cars or both. Some require homes or cars to be smoke-free for 12 hours before a foster child enters.

Judges determining parental custody and visitation have, in more than a dozen states, ordered a parent not to smoke around a child. An Ohio court last year gave custody of a 6-year-old boy to his father solely because the boy’s mother and her fiancé smoked. If that isn’t motivation enough to stop smoking, then what is?

There are all kinds of new bans in the works now, including tenants and landlords, where the landlord can be held accountable for allowing tenants to be exposed to second hand smoke.

With most of the wave of smoking bans being so new, early enforcement has generally involved warnings, a tactic Bangor will start with, along with a radio campaign. Proponents hope the mere existence of such laws causes people to curb smoking.

Some people are talking about boycotting the city. Bangor is the third largest city in Maine and a major shopping area.

I think the lamest excuse I’ve heard so far is smokers might have withdrawal symptoms while driving and cause accidents.

I read one reaction from a woman who said, “We have so many people telling us what we can and cannot do in our own lives. Are we going to come back and say, ‘If you don’t get your child out there once a week to exercise …’ ”

Well, love it or hate it, it certainly is to the benefit of our kids.

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

January 17th, 2007

Humor Me: New Year’s Resolutions

Well, Tracy isn’t feeling well and I’m stressed to my limit. What could be more needed than a little humor?

I found this on the web at www.KHOU.com. It’s an article by Staff Writer, Matt Wixon. It gave me a little chuckle; hope it can do the same for you.

Posted in Uncategorized
By rubyredshoes

January 15th, 2007

You can’t run a marathon sitting on the sofa

Looks like Sage Media knows as much about marathon running as I do (see step #7)!

Posted in Uncategorized
By Tracy