Using Yoga as an Alternative to Smoke Cessation
Smoking remains a leading cause of cancer and other related diseases worldwide. The consequences are dire. It decimates 6 million people each year according to WHO with 5 million deaths due to tobacco use and over 600,000 fatalities of second-hand smoking. Many methods have been tried to stop smoking, among them nicotine patches, e-cigarettes and even medications.
Myths of Vaping and other NRTs
Vaping and e-cigarettes are promoted as ways to stop cigarette smoking. However, there are recent researches that point out vaping can actually increase cigarette consumption and could hold back smokers from kicking the habit. Nicotine patches do the same, the cravings do not stop and are likely to persist. However, another method that is being tried by therapists and practitioners is to use yoga as an effective alternative to cure nicotine addiction.
Empirical Evidence
A pilot study conducted by Bock, et al on ‘Yoga as a Complementary Treatment for Smoking Cessation in Women’ revealed encouraging results. Based on the outcome of the behavioral cognitive treatment and exposure to Vinyasa yoga on 55 women, those who were in the yoga group had a higher abstinence rate than those who were not. The group had also less stress and anxiety as well improved perceptions of health and well-being.
Among practitioners, there is growing recognition that meditation which is one of the eight components of yoga, can help patients and sufferers cope with life events. Sharma and Sharma in an abstract published on the International Journal of Yoga further explains that mindfulness, the state where a person recognizes and accepts thoughts as merely passing, assists in smoke cessation. Nicotine addiction and withdrawal symptoms are perceived as negative behavior giving sense of urgency to positive reinforcement of quitting.
Yoga and Its Benefits
On simpler terms, part of the problem why smokers pick up cigarettes is that they do not feel well, are grumpy, stressed or anxious. Cigarettes make them feel good, induce alertness, improve moods and an overall feeling of satisfaction.
Hence, practicing yoga, makes one feel better starting with the right breathing techniques that relax the body, get rid or reduce stress and anxiety. Meditation alters and calms the mind while focusing on negative behavior such as smoking.
There are no conclusive and exhaustive studies that indicate the efficacy of yoga as an alternative to smoke cessation. However, there is a huge potential that relaxation techniques such as yoga can actually help smokers kick tobacco smoking for good by feeling good about themselves, eliminating stress and eventually, get rid of tobacco cravings and desires.
Jenny Holt, Guest Blogger for YogaForce
Try doing the pose below: This will improve blood circulation, energize nervous system, rejuvenate brain cells and calm your mind. This pranayama also clears subtle energy channels and helps resist the urge of smoking. Get high on oxygen and toss the cig! www.yogaforce.com
