 It’s been a few months since I took the plunge and quit smoking. I’ve had some time to reflect on how I feel since making that change. I also cut down on drinking alcohol a month ago, which has been another significant shift in my lifestyle. Quitting smoking was a decision I’d been putting off for ages. I’ve tried to give it up before, but this time felt different. I was fed up with the smell, the coughing, and the whole routine of needing a cigarette to unwind. One day, I just decided enough was enough. I didn’t have any grand plans; it was more of an impulsive decision. I woke up and thought, “Why not?”
The first week was a bit of a rollercoaster. I had cravings that were hard to ignore, but I kept myself busy. I found that going for walks or getting into a good book really helped take my mind off the urges. Surprisingly, I didn’t find myself feeling overly grumpy, which is often the stereotype of quitting smoking. I actually felt pretty empowered. As the weeks went on, I noticed some changes that I wasn’t expecting. My sense of smell has improved dramatically. I can actually smell food cooking now, and it’s amazing how much I enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. It’s the little things that have made a big difference. Alongside quitting smoking, I’ve also scaled back my alcohol intake. I’m not completely off it—I still enjoy a pint on occasion—but I’ve cut down significantly. I don’t drink at home at all anymore, and the only time I do drink is once a week or less when I have one or two pints with my dad at our local pub. I realised that I was using alcohol to relax, but it was often leading to late nights and feeling rough the next day. By not drinking as much, I’ve noticed I wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to tackle the day. I want to aim for completely quitting alcohol altogether, as I’ve come to understand that it doesn’t really help me. In fact, it often makes my mental health a lot worse. This realisation has been crucial for me. The benefits of both quitting smoking and cutting back on alcohol have been noticeable. I have more energy than I did a few months ago. I’m sleeping better, and I’ve even started exercising more regularly. I wouldn’t say I’m training for a marathon or anything, but I’ve been maintaining my routine of home workouts every day. It’s amazing what a bit of fresh air and physical activity can do for your mood. On top of that, my skin seems to be clearer, and I’m feeling less bloated. It’s as if my body is finally catching up after years of neglecting it with cigarettes and excessive drinking. I didn’t expect to see such quick results, but I’m really pleased with how I’m feeling. Looking ahead, I want to maintain this momentum. I know it’s easy to slip back into old habits, but I’m committed to sticking with these changes. I feel healthier and more in control of my life, and I want to keep it that way. I’m also excited about what the future holds—less dependence on smoking and drinking means more freedom to explore new activities and interests. Quitting smoking and drinking is not just about the physical changes; it’s also about the mental clarity that comes with it. I’ve started to feel more present in my daily life. I’m more aware of my surroundings and able to appreciate things I often took for granted. I’ve even started to enjoy my own company more. There’s something empowering about realising that I don’t need a crutch like cigarettes or alcohol to enjoy life or to cope with stress. Of course, there are challenges ahead. There will be times when I might feel tempted to have a drink or a smoke, especially during stressful times. However, I feel more equipped to handle these cravings now. I’ve learned some techniques to cope with the urges. Breathing exercises, mindfulness, and simply stepping outside for a moment to clear my head have all been useful strategies. Overall, my journey of quitting smoking and cutting down on alcohol has been transformative. I feel like I’m becoming a better version of myself—one who is more in tune with my body and mind. I’m looking forward to continuing down this path and discovering what else I can achieve. This is just the beginning, and I’m ready to face whatever comes next.  As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, winter can often bring a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to our mental health and overall well-being. The festive season may bring joy for some, but for others, it can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). During these darker months, prioritising mindfulness and self-care becomes essential to maintaining a healthy mindset.
Understanding the Impact of Winter on Mental Health Winter can have a profound effect on our mood and energy levels. The lack of sunlight can lead to a drop in serotonin levels, which may contribute to feelings of sadness or lethargy. Additionally, the holiday season can bring about pressure to meet social expectations, which may lead to stress or anxiety. Recognising these factors is the first step towards practising effective self-care. Embrace Mindfulness Mindfulness is the practice of being present in the moment, fully engaging with your thoughts, feelings, and surroundings. This practice can help mitigate feelings of anxiety and promote a sense of calm, making it particularly beneficial during the winter months. Here are some ways to incorporate mindfulness into your daily routine:
Prioritising Self-Care Self-care isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a necessary aspect of maintaining our mental health. Here are some practical self-care tips to help you through the winter months:
Seek Professional Help When Needed If you find that feelings of sadness, anxiety, or hopelessness persist, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Talking to a mental health professional can provide valuable support and guidance. Many therapists now offer virtual sessions, making it easier to seek help from the comfort of your home. Winter can undoubtedly be a challenging time for many, but by incorporating mindfulness practices and prioritising self-care, you can navigate this season with greater ease. Taking small steps to nurture your mental health will not only help you cope but may also enhance your overall quality of life during these darker months. Remember, taking care of yourself is not a luxury but a necessity, and you deserve to thrive no matter the season. |