Still smokin' about Wisconsin's no-smoking law? (or are you ready to quit?)

The new law prohibiting smoking in most public places and workplaces took effect in July 2010, which means that the law just passed its first birthday. If you are still smoking one year later, you still have the opportunity to consider if you want to stop your smoking addiction and how you plan to do it.

You have lots of options.

Traditional medical recommendations include nicotine gum and nicotine patches, which distribute a regulated amount of nicotine to help your brain and body reduce its dependence. There are also medications that help the person stop smoking, particuarly the new Chantix. However, many people find that these aids have not worked for them -- or decide that if they are ending this habit, they don't want to use any nicotine at all, or don't want to have the side effects of medication..

Like any other addictive activity, people really do have choice about the means to the end of the butt.

Here are some suggestions to keep in mind to go the natural route:

Nicotine Anonymous, available online and in some communities, has helped thousands to quit smoking by using principles similar to Alocholics Anonynous. A local group meets weekly in Kenosha; an interested person, group or organization could start a meeting in Racine County See its web site or call the main number (415) 750-0328 to obtain a kit to begin a meeting. You can carry literature in your purse, wallet, calendar, address book or briefcase.

Help line numbers can give you support and information. Reaching out to talk and get options to a cigarette is helpful during times of craving. You may also list a number of supportive friends who are willing to take your calls when you are feeling a craving. The toll-free Wisconsin Quit Line is (877) 270-7867 and offers referrals, free phone coaching and medications.

Alternative and complementary practitioners, such as acupuncturists, naturopathic physicians, herbalists and yoga and tai chi instructors  can assist in the detoxing, learning, stabilizing and changing process. Massage and bodywork will soothe the body when it is craving its tobacco fix. Yoga and tai chi, with their structured movements and conscious breathing, promote concentration and are healthy ways to reduce stress. Meditation itself is very helpful with stress reduction too.

Experiential psychotherapy can help.  This alternative to talk therapy, which uses role play and other imaginative and experiential activities, can help you discover deeper levels of understanding about your relationship to tobacco and assist in changing behaviors in the here-and-now.

Detox your liver. The liver is the important organ that filters and stores toxins; you can purify  it with the juice of one lemon squeezed into a glass of warm water. Take each morning. Chinese herbs, such as Xiao Yao Wan and Gan Cao, a Chinese herbal licorice, help with detoxing the body and soothing its central nervous system.

Guided imagery will relax. Guided imageries -- sometimes called guided meditations -- are words and music on a tape or CD and are immensely helpful to train the subconscious brain to new ways of thinking and being. Health Journeys offers some excellent choices specifically relating to stopping nicotine use. While you're at the main page of the site, look for a free relaxing imagery to download.