There are many smoking cessation programs to help you ‘kick the habit’ of nicotine. From lasers and hypnosis, to nicotine replacement product aids and smoking cessation support, the list is endless. If you are seeking help to stop smoking, do your research to find out which smoking cessation program is best for your lifestyle and values.

Smoking Cessation: Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is the newest of all smoking cessation programs. In laser therapy, a trained professional directs laser light to certain acupuncture points on the body (hands, ears, face, head) to stimulate the release of endorphins, while helping the body to detoxify from nicotine. Laser therapy is drug-free and painless; the laser is about the same strength as a regular household light bulb. A laser therapy smoking cessation program is usually finished in one session, although occasionally participants undergo more than one treatment.

Smoking Cessation: Hypnosis

Hypnosis has been used as an aid to help ease smoking withdrawal symptoms for decades. The best subject is one who is ready to stop smoking and open to helpful subconscious suggestions, since no one can be hypnotized if not open to the idea. Although hypnosis is not a cure-all solution, it is a great way to address your addiction to nicotine and is best used in addition to other smoking cessation programs. To use hypnosis as a smoking cessation method, either contact a local hypno-therapist or buy a CD that can help you administer hypnosis yourself as you are falling asleep each evening.

Smoking Cessation: Acupuncture

Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese therapy, is another aid that is best used when ready to quit. In acupuncture, a licensed acupuncturist will stimulate specific energy points on the body with very fine needles. These points are similar to the points used in laser therapy and help with the detoxifying and withdrawal periods of smoking cessation. Acupuncture is used to restore balance to the flow of energy into the body and aid in deep relaxation and balance.

Nicotine Replacement Therapy for Smoking Cessation

Nicotine replacement therapy is the act of providing yourself with small amounts of nicotine throughout the day, to lessen the withdraw symptoms of smoking cessation. Nicotine replacement therapy products can range from the patch and gum, which are available over the counter, to nasal spray and the oral inhaler, available by prescription. With nicotine replacement therapy, you must quit smoking prior to using the products, since the medications can cause serious health problems if combined with smoking. The goal of nicotine replacement therapy is to allow a small amount of nicotine into your system by another method besides smoking, which is lessened over the course of three to six months until you are completely free of nicotine.

Quitting Smoking: The Healthy Choice

Whether you decide to use nicotine replacement therapy, hypnosis, acupuncture, or laser therapy, you will likely achieve your goal--a smoke-free life. Each program usually offers support, through a phone-line or one-on-one therapy. Good luck!