While you're still smoking, there are times when you just can't light up — or leave. Meetings. Airplanes. Checking into a hospital. These situations may be uncomfortable scenarios for smokers, but fighting off even one urge to smoke is a success. Consider it practice for the next step — quitting for good. Here are some ideas that can help you beat those cravings:

Snack healthy
Enjoy satisfying finger foods that also give you something to do with your hands and mouth besides smoke.

Crunchy foods:	Sweet foods:	Chewy foods:
apples bell peppers pickles popcorn, unbuttered graham crackers wheat or whole-grain crackers pretzels shredded wheat (without milk) puffed wheat (without milk)	strawberries vanilla wafers animal crackers cantaloupe frozen fruit pops pineapple peaches blueberries pears fruit sorbet applesauce	bagel raisins dates raisin bread bran muffin banana gum

Distract yourself
We all use distractions to avoid unpleasant tasks. Why not try distracting yourself from your smoking urges? Some people are more attracted by visual distractions, others by sounds or sensations. Find out what catches your attention and stick with it. What else can you add to the list?

Visual distractions:	Auditory distractions:	Feeling distractions:
Garden & nature Jigsaw puzzles Surfing the net Reading a magazine	Music & lyrics The sound of wind The vibrant voice of the talk show host The ambient noise of your office	The grip of your shoes on the sidewalk A breeze in your face Dancing The texture of fabric The feel of your computer keyboard

Manage your cravings
Need to get past a craving now? The Cravings Pacifier is an interactive tool that provides specific suggestions on how to deal with withdrawal symptoms.

Handling stress
Relaxation techniques to help you let go of stress and soothe your mind.

Think positively
Like they say: Attitude is everything! Here are some simple techniques to help you see the positive side of life without cigarettes.

More insights into beating addiction