SMOKING: quit while you’re ahead

Before I begin, I apologise for what may be perceived as a lecture by some. Please know that it is coming from my heart after seeing the devestating effects it has had on a loved one. 
I'm willing to bet that most smokers are completely unaware of their odds: "Tobacco kills 50% of its regular users. One out of every two regular smokers will die from smoking" (World Health Organisation). That is huge! Most people presume that the main threat is Lung cancer, however Coronary Heart Disease is a major risk. Most smokers practise deceptive self-talk to convince themselves that they are not being subjected to any danger: "I'm not really addicted, I can stop anytime", "My grandfather smoked until he was 90 and was very healthy", "We don't have cancer in my family", "I exercise so I burn it all off" and "When my Dr tells me I have to stop, I'll do it"...we've all heard/said them all! The truth is most smokers secretely suffer from guitly feelings when smoking and have a very big understanding of the dangers they are putting themselves in: they are simply addicted to both the Nicotine and the 'habit' (drinking/smoking association, holding a cigarette etc..); Genetics has nothing to do with it and will not protect you; no amount of exercise will empty your system from the toxins; when your doctor informs you that its time to quit, its probably already too late unfortunetly. Please don't wait to hear bad news to quit, do it while you are still in control of the situation; The right time is NOW. 
I would suggest that you try many different things simultaneously: Nicotine patches and gum (these should never be used if you are still smoking), support groups (many available online), hypnosis, acupuncture, counselling...Do whatever it takes, go all out! Help is available and you should not do it alone. Have as many tools as possible to fall back on when temptation hits. The good news is that the benefits begin 20mns after you have your last cigarette. Please click on the link to see a timeline of what happens to your body when you stop smoking. Wishing you the best of luck 

and sending you lots of positive energy on your journey to better health!

Quit Smoking Timeline
www.stqp.org