Reviewed by Gay Sutherland, honorary consultant clinical psychologist
What is nicotine?
A variety of different brain chemicals are altered each time you smoke.
Nicotine is the ingredient that causes physical addiction to tobacco.
It's a mild stimulant and increases activity in the brain just like caffeine, cocaine and amphetamine.
It's also a powerful toxin, which is why you probably coughed your way through that first cigarette all those years ago.
Nicotine in the brain
Nicotine affects every part of the nervous system, including the pleasure centre of the brain.
A variety of different brain chemicals are altered each time you smoke. When smokers are asked why they use tobacco, they say:
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It takes some practice and training, but is well worth it. Learn more about using hypnosis to manage stress in your life.
6. Exercise
Many people exercise to control weight and get in better physical condition to become more healthy or physically attractive, but exercise and stress management are also closely linked. Exercise provides a distraction from stressful situations, as well as an outlet for frustrations, and gives you a lift via endorphins as well. This article can tell you more about the stress management benefits of exercise, and help you get more active in your daily life.
7. Progressive Muscle Relaxation
By tensing and relaxing all the muscle groups in your body, you can relieve tension and feel much more relaxed in minutes, with no special training or equipment. Start by tensing all the muscles in your face, holding a tight grimace ten seconds, then completely relaxing for ten seconds. Repeat this with your neck, followed by your shoulders, etc. You can do this anywhere, and as you practice, you will find you can relax more quickly and easily, reducing tension as quickly as it