Gaming and Vaping

[cutebird791]

Hey all,

I started my journey to quit nicotine a few days ago, and something im struggling with is constantly reaching in my pockets or lap for a vape while gaming, working, driving, conversing... any good tips on what i can replace it with? what's worked for u guys?

[YoungAtHeart]

Welcome to our community!1  

Congratulations on your decision to quit vaping and your first successful days!  You will need to substitute “vape” or “device” as you do the reading I will recommend.  Research suggests nicotine may be as addictive as heroin and cocaine. This isn't easy in the beginning, but it IS doable, and it gets easier as you get some time in.

You can use all kinds of fidget objects.  I found these on Etsy  https://www.etsy.com/listing/1867404112/quiet-fidget-toy-bundle-for-school?ls=s&ga_order=most_releva...

but a search can turn up ALL kinds.

I recommend that you educate yourself on what nicotine does to your body and mind.  To that end, I suggest Allen Carr's “The Easy Way to Stop Smoking.”  He provides a good perspective on the whole quit experience.

The idea is to change up your routines so the vaping associations are reduced. Drink your coffee with your OTHER hand in a place different from where you vaped. Maybe switch to tea for a bit. If you always had that first puff with your coffee, try putting your walking shoes on right out of bed, going for a quick walk, then taking your shower and THEN your beverage.  Take a different route when you are out and about to change up the scenery and so you aren't driving by your vaping supply shop. Take the Daily Pledge each day, Just look for it on the home page.

You need to distract yourself through any craves. You can take a bite out of a lemon (yup - rind and all), do a few jumping jacks, go for a brisk walk or march in place, play a computer game. Keep a cold bottle of water with you from which to sip. Don't let that vaping thought rattle around in your brain unchallenged. Get busy! STAY busy!  Here is a list of things to do instead of vape if you need some fresh ideas:

101 Things to Do Instead of Smoke - EX Community

The conversation in your head in response to the "I want to vape" thought needs to be, "Well, since I have decided not to do that anymore, what shall I do instead for the three minutes this crave will last?" Then DO it. You will need to put some effort into this in the early days, but it gets easier and easier to do.

Stay close to us here and ask questions when you have them and for support when you need it. We will be with you every step of the way!

Nancy

[biscuit9]

@cutebird791   Something that smells good?  Mints?  Some people blow through a straw.  Fidget gadget thingy that you hold in your hand.

[CommunityAdmin]

Welcome to the EX Community @cutebird791! My name’s Quiana, and I’m part of the EX Team. I want to say congratulations on making the incredible decision to quit. You’ve already taken such a brave and important step, and we’re honored to be here with you on this journey.

Here are some tips that can be helpful!

1. Change Your Mindset

• Rather than thinking you’re giving something up, think of it as taking your life back.
• Remind yourself that cravings are temporary, but the freedom you gain is permanent.
• Write down your reasons for quitting: health, money, freedom, self-control, and review them daily.

2. Prepare for Cravings

• Cravings peak around the 5-minute mark, then fade. Stay strong! 
• When a craving strikes, distract yourself by drinking water, chewing gum, walking, texting a friend, or playing a game. 
• Keep your hands and mouth occupied with mints and straws, or even holding something (like a pen) can help. 
• Deep breathing: Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 4, exhale for 4. It helps!

3. Change Your Routine

• If you vaped at certain times (waking up, driving, after meals), switch up what you do in those moments.
• Avoid triggers. If you always vaped with coffee, try tea or a new morning habit.

4. Accept the Withdrawals

• The first 3-7 days are usually the hardest, but every day gets easier after that.
• Expect mood swings, restlessness, headaches, and sleep issues; it’s your body healing!
• Stay hydrated, eat well, and get active to speed up the detox process.

5. Make It Hard to Cave

• If you feel the urge to buy a new one, delay it; tell yourself, “Not today!”
• Accountability helps! Tell a friend and continue to post in the EX Community!

Our vaping group is filled with helpful conversations and resources tailored to your experience, so be sure to check it out.

We’re so glad you’re here, and we believe in you! You’ve got what it takes, and we’ll be cheering you on every step of the way.

Quiana, EX Team

[Barbscloud]

@cutebird791 Welcome to the Ex and congrats on your quit  This is a very common concern when first quitting smoking or vaping.  That will pass as you create new associations to replace vaping.   The hand/mouth connection is strongly attached to our addiction.  We'll reach for that vape/cigarette out of habit, but that will go away.  I would panic at first when I reached for my smokes and they weren't there.  Then I remembered I quit and "I don't do the anymore".

Early on, I chewed on the straws with my hand held tight while I chewed away.  Video games worked for me because they kept my mind and hand busy.   In the car, listen to music and sing along.  I would keep straws and Sour Patch Kids in my car at all times.  Find what works for you.  

The important thing is to understand this addiction and have quit plan in place.  Be prepared for what you'll do instead of vaping.  And we're here for you--support is key to success.

Glad your found us.  Stay busy and stay close.

Barb