Cartoon by Christine Korol. A cartoon cigarette with arms and legs says "Whenever you have the urge you have to smoke me - that's the rule!" beside the caption "Cravings are liars."

Trying to break a bad habit is simultaneously the simplest and hardest thing in the world. The problem is the brain is a creature of habit and can work against you when you are trying to make healthy changes. One way to reduce your stress when you are trying to establish new healthy habits is to remember that you don’t lack willpower when you have a craving - you have a healthy brain that is trying to get you to stick to your (albeit, unhealthy) routine.

Mindfulness is one tool you can use to help change how you respond to cravings. I love this TED talk by Judson Brewer on his research on mindfulness and habits. Another good resource is Jeffrey Schwartz’ book, You Are Not Your Brain.

Understanding why your brain has cravings, along with support and a plan, can help you calm your cravings and start living healthier and feeling better than you could have ever imagined.

← All posts

Want to talk it through?

Reading about this is a reasonable place to start. If you'd rather work on it with someone, the free 15-minute call is the easiest first step — no charge, and no obligation to book anything afterwards.

Currently accepting new virtual patients in Ontario and Alberta.