Stop Smoking Start Breathing

When we are pushed into a corner, when we are deluged with work, when we are running non-stop, we all crave a ‘breathing space’. A little time and space to pause, relax, take a deep breath, and take stock of the situation before we move on. Have you ever thought about your body, especially your lungs, needing a breathing space?

Cigarettes and Lungs

If you are a smoker, you will relish the feel of the warm smoke making its way down your windpipe to fill your lungs. You may think it is a pleasurable feeling of warmth that fills you as you fill your lungs with toxins, but this is a fool’s paradise.

You may have started smoking because it seemed attractive, because you wanted a sense of belonging, or because you wanted to cultivate a certain image. Over time, the habit you choose will choose you. You will become dependent on it as an addiction. Quitting becomes difficult as you will reach for a smoke when you are triggered by certain emotions or situations. Smoke’s hold on you will be complete.

You May Feel You Require That Puff, But Your Lungs Certainly Do Not 

The lungs are one of the most sensitive organs in the body. The moist airways lead to two lungs, which are filled with bubble-like air sacs. These are so delicate that oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange is carried out through their walls. When you smoke, the toxins pass through the air sacs into the bloodstream. Each time you inhale smoke, you are putting your lungs through incredible damage. Prolonged exposure will lead to permanent damage and result in life-limiting diseases such as lung cancer, COPD, and asthma.

Say No to Tobacco, Say Yes to Life

When you reach for your cigarette, just remember that you are also reaching for significant damage to nearly all organs of the body. Quitting smoking is the best option. Talk to your doctor for assistance in kicking the habit. Counseling, guidance, and aids can help you overcome this poisonous habit.

When you stop smoking, you arrest the damage caused to your lungs, giving them the much-needed breathing space to recover.