Five-step plan for Obama to help give up smoking

Washington, March 3 (ANI): Experts have come up with a five-step plan to help smokers around the world, including US President Barack Obama, quit smoking.

Susan Rausch, health educator at the Pat Walker Health Center and co-chair of the University of Arkansas' FRESH campaign, offered tips for the president and those struggling to kick the habit.

Rausch said: "Most smokers try several times before they achieve freedom. Each attempt teaches you something about the type of smoker that you are and the role of tobacco in your life. The better you understand yourself, the more likely you will succeed. The important thing is to keep trying. That's true for a student, a professor, a staff worker - or even the president of the United States."

The plan included:

1. Deal with your stress first! Stress by itself is bad for your health. Examine your day and identify the sources of your stress. Research stress reduction strategies and find ones that will work for you. Make physical activity that you enjoy a part of each day.

2. Ask yourself why you want to quit smoking. The key to success is personal choice: It has to be for you. Envision yourself as a non-smoker. Think of quitting as a gift you give yourself, not something that you are taking away.

3. Set a date for quitting.

4. Prepare for that quit date by cutting down and each time you smoke ask yourself how much you "needed" that cigarette. Freshen your surroundings: clean your home, car, clothes - even your teeth. The spring season is a prime time for this.

5. On your quit date, plan to be somewhere smoking is not allowed, and reward yourself each day you don't smoke. (ANI)