(Ahlul Bayt News Agency) - The Muslim fasting month of Ramadan offers an excellent opportunity for those who wish to quit smoking, according to psychiatrist and retired colonel, Dr. Nevzat Tarhan.
“Ninety percent of those who decide to quit at this time will be successful,” he said.
For those who have had a hard time controlling the urge to smoke, Tarhan advises continuing the effort in the next month, Todayszaman.com reported.
“One of the abilities gained at the end of Ramadan after fasting for 30 days is the ability to control your desires,” he said.
Clean Slate
Tarhan said that for people wishing to stop smoking, Ramadan is a good opportunity to do so because of the time set aside for reflection and communal abstinence that are key to the holy month.
“Ramadan provides smokers with a clean slate,” he said.
“Fasting changes human behavior. To turn thoughts into habits takes at least four weeks.”
Fasting reprograms the way people think about food. If one’s thoughts on a basic need like food can be changed and behavior altered, the same can be done for smoking.
Tarhan said that praying, along with fasting, during Ramadan strengthens the social ties of society. “Ramadan not only allows for the recognition of one’s own weaknesses but also provides an opportunity to start over, he said. Individual prayer is devotion,” he said.
Fasting is devotion as well, Dr. Tarhan said, but it is one for an entire community.
Fasting helps strengthen relationships in a community. Those who fast during Ramadan experience solidarity, sharing and empathy.
Tips to Quit Smoking
- Avoid drinks like coffee after eating, the time often associated with smoking.
- Keep a small bottle of water close after eating iftar (fast-breaking time). Take a sip of water every time a cigarette craving hits.
- When food and smoking cravings occur, change the location and task at hand.
- Smoking after eating is a reflex for smokers. Get up immediately after eating and find a new activity.
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