tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70430714416941479872024-03-24T00:10:59.912-07:00Should You Quit Tobacco Smoking?Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.comBlogger128125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-28379184961868339602023-07-27T21:29:00.004-07:002023-07-27T21:29:40.076-07:00Cannabis therapy to quit smoking<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Cannabis therapy, specifically using products containing
CBD (cannabidiol) or THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), has been explored as a
potential aid to quit smoking tobacco cigarettes. However, it's important to
note that the research on this topic is still limited, and the effectiveness
and safety of cannabis-based therapies for smoking cessation are not yet fully
established.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Some studies have suggested that CBD, a non-psychoactive
component of cannabis, may have potential in reducing cigarette consumption.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which plays a role
in regulating various physiological processes, including addiction and
withdrawal. It is believed that CBD may help with smoking cessation by
addressing withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with quitting tobacco.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">On the other hand, THC, the psychoactive component of
cannabis, may have a more complex relationship with smoking cessation. While
some research suggests that THC might reduce withdrawal symptoms, other studies
indicate that THC may increase the likelihood of relapse in individuals trying
to quit smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It's essential to approach cannabis therapy for smoking
cessation with caution, as cannabis use has its own set of potential risks and
side effects, particularly when it comes to the psychoactive effects of THC.
Additionally, smoking cannabis itself can still involve inhaling harmful
substances into the lungs, similar to tobacco smoking.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKzRo5k03o3Zpp0dlGwbHd-H0yiCoocD0Jsk0ukGTYE9H-jf-TVBDLUpnkxxY9eGe5YQUSdVZm5GNpBA4CiYR6e1tEsM5vma1PltI5rssVgDd1b0fiU_SYPwupOytRO91ntEQfDYWmifDNMkgg_96_C_k5Lgw2PSrTeJBFXmSPDSfrREHUWtS5qQ3Sg/s686/quitsmokingcbd.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="686" height="329" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSKzRo5k03o3Zpp0dlGwbHd-H0yiCoocD0Jsk0ukGTYE9H-jf-TVBDLUpnkxxY9eGe5YQUSdVZm5GNpBA4CiYR6e1tEsM5vma1PltI5rssVgDd1b0fiU_SYPwupOytRO91ntEQfDYWmifDNMkgg_96_C_k5Lgw2PSrTeJBFXmSPDSfrREHUWtS5qQ3Sg/w400-h329/quitsmokingcbd.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Studies<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>University College London <a href="https://www.ucl.ac.uk/news/2018/may/cannabis-component-could-treat-nicotine-addiction">Study</a>,
2018<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The study found that after a single dose of CBD
treatment, heavy daily smokers find smoking-related cues less visually
attention-grabbing. As visual cues - such as seeing friends smoking - often
trigger relapses in those who have quit, CBD could help people stop smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">For the study, 30 dependent cigarette smokers came into
the lab after smoking normally or abstaining for 12 hours from smoking, and
were given pills of either CBD or a placebo, on separate occasions.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The participants who received CBD showed less attentional
bias to tobacco-related stimuli than in the placebo condition (to the point
that their attentional bias was no greater than when satiated with nicotine
when they smoked normally), and also rated smoking-related images as less
pleasant.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Prior research has found that attentional bias is common
in many addictive disorders, is heightened during abstinence, can predict
short-term relapse, and may play a causal role in maintaining addiction.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Researchers believe that attentional bias occurs because
of changes in the reward pathway of the brain caused by years of smoking, the
participants' attention was drawn to drug-related images.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While craving and withdrawal symptoms were unaffected,
the researchers say they will follow up with clinical trials using longer-term
treatment with multiple doses, to see if craving and withdrawal symptoms will
then be affected, and if CBD can help maintain abstinence.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">CBD is the second most abundant cannabinoids in cannabis.
Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD is not intoxicating, and has been shown
to have broad therapeutic benefits without harmful side effects.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Existing drugs for smoking cessation are not effective
for the majority of people who take them, and some have substantial side
effects. The researchers say their early results suggest that CBD is a
promising candidate for a new treatment option.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Washington State University Study, 2022<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The<a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/full/10.1021/acs.chemrestox.2c00259" target="_blank"> study,</a> conducted by a team of Washington State
University researchers found that CBD – the non-psychoactive component of
cannabis – could inhibit the metabolism of nicotine. The researchers tested CBD
on microsomes from human liver tissue and specialized cell lines to see how it
influenced nicotine metabolism.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The team found that several of these enzymes, including
CYP2A6 – a major one for nicotine metabolism – were inhibited, leading them to
conclude that CBD could curb the urge for a cigarette.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Research suggests that more than 70% of nicotine is
metabolized by this particular enzyme and that it could be inhibited by
relatively low doses of CBD.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Jon Robson, CEO and founder of medical cannabis clinic Mamedica,
believes CBD has the potential to be a non-addictive substitute for cigarettes
and could help people quit smoking in a number of ways, including:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Ease stress and anxiety<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">CBD is often used to ease anxiety, and Robson says this
can be particularly beneficial for smokers. “CBD has been shown to have
anxiolytic effects, meaning that it can reduce feelings of anxiety and stress.
By reducing anxiety, CBD may help people cope with the withdrawal symptoms that
can occur when quitting smoking,” he says.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">If smoking has been long used as a crux to manage stress
and anxiety, a reduction in these feelings may see people reaching for a
cigarette less and less as well.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce nicotine cravings<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“CBD may also help with craving reduction,” says Robson.
“CBD has been shown to have a potential as a treatment for drug addiction, and
may help reduce cravings for nicotine,” he says.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Vaporized CBD in particular may be a good alternative. As
users must inhale the vapor, they are mimicking the action of smoking; a habit
they might repeat several times a day. In this way, CBD could become a
replacement for the repetitive motion of smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduce inflammation<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In addition, CBD has anti-inflammatory effects, which are
beneficial to your overall health and may make quitting easier.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“Chronic smoking can lead to inflammation and damage to
the lungs, which can make quitting smoking even more difficult,” Robson
explains. “The anti-inflammatory properties in CBD may help to reduce
inflammation and promote healing in the lungs.”<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Cannabis-Based Treatment Options<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Oral Consumption: Edibles and Cannabis Oil</i><br />
When it comes to cannabis therapy, you have options. You can opt for oral
consumption, such as edibles and cannabis oil. This method offers a discreet
and long-lasting effect, perfect for those who want to kick back, relax, and
bid farewell to their smoking habit.<i><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Inhalation: Smoking and Vaporizing</i><br />
If you're more of a traditionalist, you can choose the inhalation method.
Smoking or vaporizing cannabis provides a more immediate effect, satisfying
those who crave instant relief. Just be sure to leave the cigarettes behind as
you embark on this new journey.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Topical Applications: Cannabis-infused Creams and
Patches</i><br />
For those who prefer not to inhale or ingest cannabis, there's still hope.
Topical applications, such as cannabis-infused creams and patches, are
available. These offer localized relief and can be a great option for targeting
specific areas of discomfort or craving.<br />
So, if you're ready to break free from the clutches of smoking, cannabis
therapy may just be the unconventional hero you've been waiting for. Remember,
though, it's always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional before
starting any new treatment. Now go forth and conquer your smoke-free future
with the help of some green goodness!<i><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Best Practices for Incorporating Cannabis Therapy into
Smoking Cessation<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Cannabis therapy presents a promising avenue for
individuals looking to quit smoking. While more research is needed to fully
understand its efficacy and potential risks, the existing evidence suggests
that cannabis may offer valuable benefits in reducing cravings, managing
withdrawal symptoms, and improving overall well-being during the quitting
process. As attitudes and regulations surrounding cannabis continue to evolve,
it is important to approach its use for smoking cessation with caution and
under the guidance of medical professionals. With ongoing studies and
advancements in this field, the role of cannabis in combating tobacco addiction
may become a significant tool in promoting a healthier and smoke-free future.<o:p></o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-31326864838981678602023-06-25T22:20:00.006-07:002023-06-25T22:20:56.969-07:00Magnet Therapy to Quit Smoking<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Magnet therapy to quit smoking involves 2 small magnets
that are put in a certain spot, opposite each other on either side of the ear.
Magnetism holds them in place. There’s no scientific evidence to date to
suggest that magnet therapy helps people stop smoking. There are many
on-line companies that sell these magnets, and they report various “success”
rates. But there’s no clinical trial data to back up these claims.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkgP7y05aSlVjMvgPXgeD7Hgt_W9QhX1o5RfL6FBEfR7AgImggMAo20oAF_8COcQ9BJkd7Cjd6ays5vKUnZj8yBfXFQwitCrc-zvp_3ifAom_kOKS3H6QC0wliFRx4cFe1WhZtR2S6Z2x5ezu7eL7nkHgzDjL-uUpD4xlswIqodlCw4RKkmwBtMUYBw/s679/61VUX2whRpL._AC_SX679_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="679" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNkgP7y05aSlVjMvgPXgeD7Hgt_W9QhX1o5RfL6FBEfR7AgImggMAo20oAF_8COcQ9BJkd7Cjd6ays5vKUnZj8yBfXFQwitCrc-zvp_3ifAom_kOKS3H6QC0wliFRx4cFe1WhZtR2S6Z2x5ezu7eL7nkHgzDjL-uUpD4xlswIqodlCw4RKkmwBtMUYBw/w400-h339/61VUX2whRpL._AC_SX679_.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>What is Magnet Therapy?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Magnet therapy, also known as magnetic therapy or
biomagnetic therapy, involves the use of magnets or magnetic fields for
therapeutic purposes. While some people claim that magnet therapy can help with
smoking cessation, there is currently limited scientific evidence to support
its effectiveness in this specific context.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Quitting smoking is a complex process that involves
addiction to nicotine, behavioral patterns, and psychological factors. The most
effective approaches for quitting smoking typically involve a combination of
behavioral interventions, counseling, support systems, and, in some cases,
pharmacological aids prescribed by healthcare professionals.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While magnets have been used for various therapeutic
purposes, such as pain management and wound healing, their effectiveness in
smoking cessation is not well-established. Some proponents of magnet therapy
suggest that wearing magnets or placing magnets on specific points of the body
can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting
smoking. However, the scientific evidence to support these claims is limited
and inconclusive.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Mechanism<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The proposed mechanism for magnet therapy to help quit
smoking is based on the theory that magnets can influence the body's energy
flow and balance, ultimately reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms
associated with nicotine addiction. However, it's important to note that the
scientific evidence supporting this mechanism is limited, and more research is
needed to establish its effectiveness.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Advocates of magnet therapy for smoking cessation suggest
that by placing magnets on specific acupressure points or meridian lines
associated with addiction, the magnetic fields can affect the body's energy
flow or the flow of Qi (life force energy) according to traditional Chinese
medicine principles. It is believed that this stimulation can help restore
balance and reduce cravings.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Additionally, proponents argue that magnets may influence
the release of neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine, which is
involved in the reward and pleasure pathways associated with smoking. By
modulating neurotransmitter activity, magnets might potentially reduce the
intensity of cravings and withdrawal symptoms.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Protocol<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While there isn't a widely recognized or standardized
protocol for magnet therapy specifically aimed at helping individuals quit
smoking, some proponents of magnet therapy suggest the following general
guidelines:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Placement
of Magnets: Place small, circular magnets on specific acupressure points or
meridian lines associated with addiction and cravings. Commonly suggested
points include the ear, wrist, or hand. These points are believed to correspond
to specific organs or systems in the body that may be affected by nicotine
addiction.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Duration
of Use: Keep the magnets in place for a certain period of time each day,
typically ranging from 15 minutes to a few hours. The recommended duration may
vary depending on the source or practitioner.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Consistency:
Use the magnets consistently as part of a daily routine. Some proponents
suggest wearing the magnets throughout the day, while others recommend using
them during specific times when cravings are likely to occur.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Individualized
Approach: Tailor the placement and duration of magnet use based on individual
preferences and needs. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional
or an experienced practitioner who can provide personalized guidance.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Safety and Side Effects<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Magnet therapy is generally considered safe when used
appropriately and under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However,
it's important to note that the evidence supporting the effectiveness of magnet
therapy for smoking cessation is limited, and its safety profile specifically
for this purpose has not been extensively studied. Here are some considerations
regarding safety and potential side effects:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Allergies
or Skin Reactions: Some individuals may experience skin irritation, redness, or
allergic reactions to the materials used in the magnets or adhesive if they are
applied directly to the skin. It is important to check for any allergies or
sensitivities before using magnets and discontinue use if any adverse skin
reactions occur.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Interference
with Medical Devices: Magnets can generate magnetic fields that may interfere
with certain medical devices, such as pacemakers, implanted defibrillators, or
insulin pumps. If you have any implanted devices, it's crucial to consult with
your healthcare provider before using magnet therapy.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Unproven
Effectiveness: While magnet therapy is generally considered safe, it's
important to be aware that the effectiveness of magnet therapy for smoking
cessation has not been robustly supported by scientific evidence. Relying
solely on magnet therapy without evidence-based smoking cessation strategies
may not be sufficient to quit smoking successfully.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Delay
in Seeking Professional Help: If individuals rely solely on magnet therapy and
do not seek professional help for smoking cessation, it may delay or prevent
them from accessing evidence-based interventions that have been proven
effective.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Psychological
Dependence: Depending solely on magnet therapy for smoking cessation may create
a psychological dependence on the magnets themselves, leading individuals to
believe they are dependent on the magnets for quitting smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Conclusion<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The effectiveness of magnet therapy for smoking cessation
is still uncertain, and the evidence supporting its use is limited. It is
recommended to approach magnet therapy as a complementary approach alongside
evidence-based smoking cessation strategies, such as counseling, behavioral
interventions, and support programs.<o:p></o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-82933283442135497932023-06-17T01:15:00.006-07:002023-06-17T01:17:57.693-07:00Tobacco Smoking Culture in the United States<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3BdacN-TrKKP1blR_Ik96HDhICXHXlx3UK8G2_QogM2_Ignmn1BANYBbnFFYNTfD98xcG2OJ1nsA8XV6oawC_qQQN2J0i4Vf7jhEUD-O6oA-phgzCMYIfoFdp2BJM0ZaIc1LtmBIpICE8to2SswIO3maRyk0rIAgZaxcGwDNJXlAR7J2Pk7D3us/s1280/p0117xwx.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgY3BdacN-TrKKP1blR_Ik96HDhICXHXlx3UK8G2_QogM2_Ignmn1BANYBbnFFYNTfD98xcG2OJ1nsA8XV6oawC_qQQN2J0i4Vf7jhEUD-O6oA-phgzCMYIfoFdp2BJM0ZaIc1LtmBIpICE8to2SswIO3maRyk0rIAgZaxcGwDNJXlAR7J2Pk7D3us/w400-h225/p0117xwx.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco smoking has had a significant cultural impact in
the United States throughout its history. Here are some key points regarding
the tobacco smoking culture in the United States:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Historical
Significance: Tobacco has a long history in the United States, dating back to
Native American tribes who used it for ceremonial, medicinal, and social
purposes. Tobacco cultivation and consumption became widespread during the
colonial era, particularly with the rise of tobacco plantations in the Southern
states.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Popularity
and Social Acceptance: In the early to mid-20th century, smoking tobacco, particularly
cigarettes, gained immense popularity and social acceptance. Smoking was
commonly depicted in movies, advertisements, and popular culture, and many
people considered it a fashionable and socially desirable activity.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Health
Concerns and Anti-Smoking Movements: In the latter half of the 20th century,
scientific research began to link smoking to serious health issues, such as
lung cancer, heart disease, and other respiratory problems. As awareness of
these risks grew, anti-smoking movements and public health campaigns emerged,
advocating for smoking cessation and promoting the dangers of tobacco use.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Regulatory
Measures: The U.S. government implemented various regulatory measures to
address the health risks associated with tobacco smoking. These measures
include warning labels on cigarette packages, restrictions on tobacco
advertising, bans on smoking in public places, increased taxes on tobacco
products, and the establishment of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's
authority to regulate tobacco.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Decline
in Smoking Rates: Over the past few decades, smoking rates in the United States
have significantly declined. This decline can be attributed to a combination of
factors, including public health campaigns, increased awareness of the health
risks, changing social norms, and the implementation of tobacco control
policies.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Shift
in Attitudes: Smoking has become less socially acceptable over time, and there
has been a cultural shift towards prioritizing health and well-being. Many
public spaces, including workplaces, restaurants, and bars, have implemented
smoke-free policies, creating environments that discourage smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Ceremonial Tobacco<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Ceremonial tobacco holds cultural and spiritual
significance for many Native American tribes in the United States. It is
important to recognize that ceremonial tobacco practices and traditions vary
among different tribes and should be approached with respect and cultural
sensitivity. Here are some general points regarding ceremonial tobacco in the
USA:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Sacred
and Ritual Use: Ceremonial tobacco, also known as sacred tobacco or prayer
tobacco, is often used in Native American ceremonies, rituals, and spiritual
practices. It is considered a sacred plant and holds deep cultural and symbolic
meaning within Native American communities.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Offering
and Communication: Ceremonial tobacco is used as an offering to the spirits,
deities, ancestors, and the natural world. It is seen as a means of
communication and a way to establish a connection with the spiritual realm.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Blessings
and Protection: Ceremonial tobacco is believed to carry prayers and messages to
the spiritual realm. It is often used to seek blessings, protection, guidance,
and healing for individuals, communities, or specific events.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Ritual
Smoking: Smoking ceremonial tobacco is a common practice in Native American
ceremonies. It is seen as a way to purify oneself, focus the mind, and
establish a spiritual connection. The act of smoking is often accompanied by
prayers, chants, or other rituals that vary among tribes.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Respect
and Cultural Sensitivity: Ceremonial tobacco holds deep cultural and spiritual
significance for Native American communities. It is essential to approach
ceremonial tobacco practices with respect, understanding, and cultural
sensitivity. If you are not part of a Native American community or are
unfamiliar with specific tribal customs, it is important to seek guidance from
knowledgeable individuals within the community to understand and participate
respectfully.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhho-gwPOSQRSH9JiC0RD_BlLCs_vzLsCu8NlWz-9W6ZPlNIvaohQUj7D2KOp9VV4b9iITWdQ4PVsJYjpiIeH3I0gCO-82fxf-9yIAKIPh0mDapgJDVDQimODliJM1-HO7Os0zngSMTEILbbUsnFB4FQNkOTnFOWCKcF2rUd4iLP2qw95DrBGQMNXA/s628/ScreenShot4075.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="357" data-original-width="628" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhho-gwPOSQRSH9JiC0RD_BlLCs_vzLsCu8NlWz-9W6ZPlNIvaohQUj7D2KOp9VV4b9iITWdQ4PVsJYjpiIeH3I0gCO-82fxf-9yIAKIPh0mDapgJDVDQimODliJM1-HO7Os0zngSMTEILbbUsnFB4FQNkOTnFOWCKcF2rUd4iLP2qw95DrBGQMNXA/w400-h228/ScreenShot4075.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><b><br /></b><p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Tobacco Ceremonies<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco ceremonies hold significant cultural and
spiritual value for many Native American tribes. It is crucial to understand
that these ceremonies differ among tribes and should be approached with respect
and cultural sensitivity. While I can provide a general overview, it's
important to note that specific details and practices may vary.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Purpose
and Significance: Tobacco ceremonies are conducted to connect with the
spiritual realm, express gratitude, seek guidance, offer prayers, and establish
a bond with the natural world, ancestors, and deities. They are considered
sacred and are an integral part of many Native American spiritual traditions.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Preparation:
The ceremony typically begins with the preparation of ceremonial tobacco. The
tobacco may be in the form of loose leaves or sometimes mixed with other sacred
herbs, depending on the tribe and specific ceremony. The tobacco is often
treated with great care, reverence, and respect.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Sacred
Space: A designated sacred space is prepared for the ceremony, which may
include a fire pit, an altar, or other ceremonial objects. The space is
cleansed, purified, and spiritually prepared before the ceremony begins.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Ritual
and Prayer: The ceremony is led by a spiritual leader or elder who guides
participants through various rituals, prayers, and chants. These rituals may
include smudging with sacred herbs, offering of tobacco, drumming, singing, and
sharing of prayers and intentions. Participants may be encouraged to reflect on
their connection to the spiritual realm and the natural world.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Pipe
Ceremony: The use of a ceremonial pipe is central to many tobacco ceremonies.
The pipe, often referred to as a "peace pipe," is filled with the
sacred tobacco blend. It is passed from person to person, clockwise, allowing
each participant to take a puff and offer their prayers or intentions. The pipe
ceremony is accompanied by prayers, blessings, and expressions of gratitude.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l3 level1 lfo3; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Communal
Sharing: Tobacco ceremonies often emphasize communal participation and unity.
It is an opportunity for individuals to come together, support one another, and
strengthen their spiritual connection as a community. The sharing of stories,
teachings, and wisdom may also be an integral part of the ceremony.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Legal Considerations<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco smoking laws in the United States vary at the
federal, state, and local levels. Here are some general points about tobacco
smoking laws in the USA:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Minimum
Age Restrictions: The federal law, known as the Tobacco Control Act, sets the
minimum age for purchasing and possessing tobacco products at 21 years old.
This applies to cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco
products.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Indoor
Smoking Restrictions: Many states and localities have implemented laws that
restrict or ban smoking in indoor public places, such as restaurants, bars,
workplaces, and government buildings. These laws aim to protect individuals
from secondhand smoke exposure and promote a healthier environment.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Outdoor
Smoking Restrictions: Some states and localities have also implemented outdoor
smoking restrictions in specific areas, such as parks, beaches, public
transportation areas, and outdoor dining areas. These restrictions aim to
reduce the impact of secondhand smoke and promote clean air in public spaces.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->E-Cigarettes
and Vaping: In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on regulating
electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) and vaping. Some states and localities
have implemented specific laws and restrictions on the sale, marketing, and use
of these products, including restrictions on where they can be used in public.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Retail
Restrictions: The sale of tobacco products is regulated at the federal, state,
and local levels. These regulations may include restrictions on the display and
advertising of tobacco products, minimum package sizes, and licensing
requirements for retailers.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo4; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">6.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Tobacco
Taxes: Taxes on tobacco products vary by state. These taxes are intended to
discourage smoking, generate revenue, and fund tobacco control programs and
public health initiatives.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Costs<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In the USA, the cost of purchasing tobacco products, such
as cigarettes, cigars, or smokeless tobacco, is a significant expense for
smokers. Prices can vary widely depending on the brand, type, and location. On
average, a pack of cigarettes can range from around $5 to $15 or more,
depending on state taxes and local regulations. The number of cigarettes or
amount of tobacco used per day also impacts the overall cost. Heavy smokers who
consume more tobacco products will incur higher costs compared to occasional or
light smokers.<o:p></o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-75147514437916981692023-06-07T21:13:00.001-07:002023-06-07T21:13:38.781-07:00Leonard, Light My Cigarette by Tony Babinski<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Leonard, Light My Cigarette<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><o:p> </o:p></i></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbNLVgsh-GnasAOBJCFYs1AcjXKCl32603cVPT4knxiDU3MR3M2M_pl9IEjHUyvxmuNsWwPKsHtJEKgheBCl4zPLDU_TNhgucEpDbnZ6XhBta5CRs6ZhiIsW-zMKaYhkv7TOOFsY5ejl3-Bm0yhnikWwV8bFj2XBbtyFDIrZayD2DaGIHLPG3-3Q/s594/Screenshot%202023-06-07%20210753.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="332" data-original-width="594" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJbNLVgsh-GnasAOBJCFYs1AcjXKCl32603cVPT4knxiDU3MR3M2M_pl9IEjHUyvxmuNsWwPKsHtJEKgheBCl4zPLDU_TNhgucEpDbnZ6XhBta5CRs6ZhiIsW-zMKaYhkv7TOOFsY5ejl3-Bm0yhnikWwV8bFj2XBbtyFDIrZayD2DaGIHLPG3-3Q/w400-h224/Screenshot%202023-06-07%20210753.jpg" width="400" /></a></i></div><i><br /></i><p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Author: Tony Babinski<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">This life underground Is too much, man <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">My reflection in the window <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Falls in and out of grace <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">And this constant hiss so cool <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">(Can you believe the heat in here?) <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">“People of Athens, this man is a danger to our children! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">His songs are so glum! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He has some strange, hypnotic power over our women! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He’s a gypsy, he’s a Jew!” <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leonard, light my cigarette <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Light my, light my, light my cigarette <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Because you never laid down that cross <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">You just made carrying it look good <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">And you never really said so long to Marie-Anne <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Our town. Our lady.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">And look! The cross still shines on <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">An X-Mas ornament <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">On our tinsel tree-top <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Souvenir necropolis. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tell me Leonard, when will we bury our dead? <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Not under this sun <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">That beats on the beat streets and heats <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The beat that still beats on. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The heat. Now there’s another story. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">It’s Dorval, 1988. The hottest Summer yet. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">And the Prince of Darkness stands there <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In black pants, black jacket, and a black, wool
turtleneck sweater<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">He still takes the heat. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leonard. light my cigarette! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leonard, light my cigarette! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leonard, light my cigarette! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">For all the punks and the drunks and the beautiful
losers! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leonard. light my cigarette! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">For all the pretty women who sing out their souls for
you! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Leonard, light my cigarette! <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Light it from Reijkavik to Oslo and everywhere the hot
sun<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Beats down on this cruel, cool world!</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQ62U-STuhgO1QEcwdYKLgtPS4vdivHxphiQHzcx3BTYzE7yiQFlM-bjaO6p8dge49Id9Vy7N4J-U7bhLRVcpHU43oHWEPZl62-IIo5sNaBmfvQBy6fJ4PsN4TEZ9K4VCf_RXWW7qdL1GPGv4O56vyb-QEPwJkpJ4eJpwZvxrHGW2ViFA6DadOG0/s699/fc2fcf7620aed1873bc3fa55c46ab012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="699" data-original-width="488" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCQ62U-STuhgO1QEcwdYKLgtPS4vdivHxphiQHzcx3BTYzE7yiQFlM-bjaO6p8dge49Id9Vy7N4J-U7bhLRVcpHU43oHWEPZl62-IIo5sNaBmfvQBy6fJ4PsN4TEZ9K4VCf_RXWW7qdL1GPGv4O56vyb-QEPwJkpJ4eJpwZvxrHGW2ViFA6DadOG0/w446-h640/fc2fcf7620aed1873bc3fa55c46ab012.jpg" width="446" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Leonard, light my cigarette, is an experimental
marriage of poetry, sound sculpture, and fragmented visual narrative that
examines the artistic and personal impact of Canada's best-known poet.<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GjFZ9u5KmNI" width="320" youtube-src-id="GjFZ9u5KmNI"></iframe></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Sources: <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a href="https://pickmeuppoetry.org/leonard-light-my-cigarette-by-tony-babinski/">https://pickmeuppoetry.org/leonard-light-my-cigarette-by-tony-babinski/</a><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><a href="https://www.leonardcohenfiles.com/cigaret.html">https://www.leonardcohenfiles.com/cigaret.html</a><o:p></o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-5674471704789202802023-05-30T22:29:00.004-07:002023-05-30T22:29:20.686-07:00Do you smoke?<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Lady: Do you smoke?<br />
Guy: Yes, I do.<br />
Lady: How many packs a day?<br />
Guy: 3 packs.<br />
Lady: How much per pack?<br />
Guy: $10.00 per pack.<br />
Lady: And how long have you been smoking?<br />
Guy: 15 years<br />
Lady: So 1 pack is $10.00 and you have been smoking 3 packs a day which puts
your spending per month at $900. In 1 year, it would have been $10,800.
Correct?<br />
Guy: Correct.<br />
Lady: If 1 year you spend $10,800, not accounting for inflation, the past 15
years puts your spending total at $162,000. Correct?<br />
Guy: Correct.<br />
Lady: Do you know if you hadn’t smoke, that money could have been put in a
step-up interest savings account and after accounting for compound interest for
the past 15 years, you could have by now bought a Ferrari?<br />
Guy: Oh. Do you smoke?<br />
Lady: No.<br />
Guy: Then where’s your fu**king Ferrari?<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMqxT-2bivgTyo6LwILB58worANAPpjSbbRI0CPKCjbBLtcXxsQzBZOMd0R-pScnmEgRAxDXbfzwDAnlZjged9iB4wmgDAub6RM3B3inMppZwcYp69zoF0FCkWj8UQncHA9KCRFa6XGXkNP4FfzD0LPtfJ1GJccgTpLpsTt6pNO_zJ2FTiSItcYU/s2015/dsc09285.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1133" data-original-width="2015" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMqxT-2bivgTyo6LwILB58worANAPpjSbbRI0CPKCjbBLtcXxsQzBZOMd0R-pScnmEgRAxDXbfzwDAnlZjged9iB4wmgDAub6RM3B3inMppZwcYp69zoF0FCkWj8UQncHA9KCRFa6XGXkNP4FfzD0LPtfJ1GJccgTpLpsTt6pNO_zJ2FTiSItcYU/w400-h225/dsc09285.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-42427562825170712962023-05-24T22:08:00.008-07:002023-05-24T22:08:52.151-07:00Perceived stress relief and relaxation – one of the reasons we smoke<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Some individuals perceive smoking as a way to cope with
stress, anxiety, or tension. The act of smoking and the physical sensations
associated with it, such as deep breathing and the rhythmic hand-to-mouth
movements, can create a temporary sense of relaxation or relief. It is not
uncommon for people to perceive smoking as a way to cope with stress or to
unwind in challenging situations. However, it's important to understand that
while smoking may provide temporary relief or relaxation, it is not a healthy
or effective long-term solution. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtzxUZgl8vU_GYQ-aBNmguoDYzwWh_jHk_YY64tkGRK3_NMDdX9ORGvtehOVkTK0eG3bWAWh7WDd2RXKcyvvHAinda3DU2_TDgfaHIVOjCnEucU7VAOfafTAMPKmBFV-9uM5WlTClESxvBoQI775Ugf6tQaKvUK2rGeFQZZ6fiH_NBljq9jsLz68/s5929/stk104924cor-56a340135f9b58b7d0d11754.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3953" data-original-width="5929" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUtzxUZgl8vU_GYQ-aBNmguoDYzwWh_jHk_YY64tkGRK3_NMDdX9ORGvtehOVkTK0eG3bWAWh7WDd2RXKcyvvHAinda3DU2_TDgfaHIVOjCnEucU7VAOfafTAMPKmBFV-9uM5WlTClESxvBoQI775Ugf6tQaKvUK2rGeFQZZ6fiH_NBljq9jsLz68/w400-h266/stk104924cor-56a340135f9b58b7d0d11754.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Why Nicotine helps with Stress Release?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Here are some reasons why nicotine may be perceived as
providing stress relief:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Dopamine
release: Nicotine stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter
associated with pleasure and reward, in the brain. This can create feelings of
temporary relaxation, pleasure, and a sense of well-being. Dopamine plays a
role in regulating mood, motivation, and reinforcement, which can contribute to
stress reduction. Nicotine stimulates the release of other various
neurotransmitters in the brain, including norepinephrine, and serotonin. These
neurotransmitters can produce feelings of pleasure, arousal, and alertness.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Reduction
of anxiety and tension: Nicotine can have an anxiolytic effect, meaning it can
temporarily reduce anxiety and tension. It can act as a mild sedative,
promoting relaxation and a sense of calmness.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Physiological
response: Nicotine can cause physiological changes in the body, such as
increased heart rate, blood pressure, and adrenaline release. These responses
can create a stimulating effect, temporarily reducing feelings of stress and
fatigue.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Habit
and psychological associations: Smoking often becomes associated with specific
activities or situations, such as taking a break, socializing, or dealing with
stressful events. The ritualistic aspects of smoking, including the hand-to-mouth
movement and deep breathing, can also provide a momentary distraction and a
sense of focus that may temporarily alleviate stress.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_2Rtw7FgFM7fcCXQpgfX1OpSK4kZpsqfYjC3DYY_Jee_QCLel0V-392E1XjAjt2uRBMBrUNCNhoHgaD0Pjq_eXQkhkUdOC9v6f_l6_mPVVrPqpAXC4-p8QhtNPUHq8qz-CeV2IWaVt_GkenPHyykPQTgjiLKeXQj-SSmurpfwNWEtmHDq8aE5wo/s1500/depressed-young-girl-509296858-5800339f5f9b5805c2f07cf5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1500" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu_2Rtw7FgFM7fcCXQpgfX1OpSK4kZpsqfYjC3DYY_Jee_QCLel0V-392E1XjAjt2uRBMBrUNCNhoHgaD0Pjq_eXQkhkUdOC9v6f_l6_mPVVrPqpAXC4-p8QhtNPUHq8qz-CeV2IWaVt_GkenPHyykPQTgjiLKeXQj-SSmurpfwNWEtmHDq8aE5wo/w400-h266/depressed-young-girl-509296858-5800339f5f9b5805c2f07cf5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Risks and Alternatives<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Here are a few points to consider:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Nicotine
addiction: Smoking provides short-term relief due to the addictive nature of
nicotine. When nicotine is inhaled, it stimulates the release of dopamine in
the brain, which creates pleasurable feelings and temporarily reduces stress
and anxiety. However, this relief is short-lived, and the cycle of addiction
often leads to increased stress levels and cravings in the long run.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Health
risks: Smoking tobacco comes with significant health risks, including an
increased likelihood of developing various diseases such as lung cancer, heart
disease, respiratory issues, and other serious health conditions. The negative
impact on health can further contribute to stress and diminish overall
well-being.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Alternative
stress management techniques: There are healthier and more effective ways to
manage stress and relax without resorting to smoking. Engaging in regular
exercise, practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation,
or yoga, pursuing hobbies, seeking social support, and maintaining a balanced
lifestyle can all contribute to stress reduction and relaxation.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Addressing
underlying causes of stress: Rather than relying on smoking as a temporary
escape from stress, it can be beneficial to identify and address the underlying
causes of stress in your life. This might involve making positive changes in
your work-life balance, seeking professional help or therapy, developing
effective coping strategies, and finding healthier ways to manage stress and
prioritize self-care.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Quitting smoking can be challenging, but it is a
significant step toward improving your overall health and well-being. Consider
seeking support from healthcare professionals, smoking cessation programs, or
support groups that can provide guidance, resources, and encouragement during
the quitting process.<o:p></o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-55800370044289499812023-05-10T21:52:00.005-07:002023-05-10T21:52:53.100-07:00Does Tobacco smoking affect how you look?<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco smoking has long been known to cause serious
health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and cancer. However, the
effects of smoking on appearance are often overlooked. Smoking not only makes you
feel and smell unpleasant, but it can also lead to premature aging, skin
damage, and other unsightly effects. In this post, we will explore how tobacco
smoking affects how you look, from wrinkled skin to stained teeth, and provide
tips for improving your appearance after quitting.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Studies<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One international study found that 13.3% of men and 21%
of women acknowledged that the effect of smoking on their appearance was one of
the factors that motivated them to quit. In a UK study, youth and young adults
aged 16-24 also took their appearance into consideration in making the decision
to quit smoking.<br />
The effect of this factor varied by gender, with young women more worried about
their skin. Another study measured the reactions of women aged 18-34 to facial
age progression using software which could produce artificial aging in digital
images. Respondents were shocked at the possible future appearance of their
skin, if they continued to smoke. The study concluded that using age-appearance
morphing techniques to personalize the experience for female smokers
significantly increased their motivation to quit smoking. <o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsh6fH-O4cPCXwH-jlHDm0qUZpG3XIrxCX50iV-tEoL-GQ-IYlc5HHTSMmV6mfAKUwsMhD3Ukazoq5_b46KBcBlCjOO5N8VeEP4BuzoadczjOu9hmxhhIkC8jPPqdlPkDI1-lIVAmhAJoqputUiz-7T_cIky3iJp2QFQyxcbbjqdWQYeQWze3YW-I/s1280/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsh6fH-O4cPCXwH-jlHDm0qUZpG3XIrxCX50iV-tEoL-GQ-IYlc5HHTSMmV6mfAKUwsMhD3Ukazoq5_b46KBcBlCjOO5N8VeEP4BuzoadczjOu9hmxhhIkC8jPPqdlPkDI1-lIVAmhAJoqputUiz-7T_cIky3iJp2QFQyxcbbjqdWQYeQWze3YW-I/w400-h225/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>The Physical Effects of Tobacco Smoking on Appearance</b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">
Smoking can have a negative impact on your overall health, but did you know
that it can also affect your appearance? Tobacco smoke contains thousands of
harmful chemicals that can wreak havoc on your skin, teeth, and gums. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>How Tobacco Smoke Affects the Skin<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking can cause damage to your skin in a number of
ways. First, it narrows blood vessels, reducing the amount of oxygen and
nutrients that reach your skin. This can lead to a dull, uneven complexion.
Smoking also damages collagen and elastin, which are the fibers that give your
skin its elasticity and firmness. Without these fibers, your skin can become
loose, saggy, and wrinkled.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Collagen and elastin are crucial for maintaining healthy
skin. Collagen provides structure and support to your skin, while elastin
allows it to stretch and bounce back into shape. Smoking can damage these
fibers and cause them to break down, leading to a loss of elasticity and
firmness. Over time, this can cause deep wrinkles and fine lines to form.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking can accelerate the aging process and cause
premature wrinkles and fine lines to form. Smoking causes wrinkles and fine
lines by damaging collagen and elastin fibers in your skin. Additionally, it
promotes the breakdown of vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient for healthy
skin. Without it, your skin can become dry, dull, and prone to wrinkles.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">When you smoke, your body produces an excess of free
radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage your cells. Free
radicals play a major role in the aging process and can contribute to wrinkles,
fine lines, and other signs of premature aging.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Age spots are blotches of darker skin color that are
common on the face and hands. While anyone can develop these spots from
spending too much time in the sun, research suggests smokers are more
susceptible.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">And finally, tobacco smoking increases the risk of
developing psoriasis, a noncontagious inflammatory skin condition that leaves
itchy, oozing red patches all over the body. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Dark Circles, Eye Bags, and Other Effects of Smoking<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking can also affect the skin around your eyes,
causing dark circles, eye bags, and other issues. Smoking can cause blood
vessels to narrow, which can lead to poor circulation and a buildup of toxins
in the skin around your eyes. This can cause dark circles to form, making you
look tired and worn out.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking can also cause fluid retention, which can lead to
puffy eyes. Additionally, smoking can cause damage to the collagen and elastin
fibers around your eyes, causing the skin to become loose and saggy.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Dental Health: Stained Teeth, Bad Breath, and Gum Disease</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking can take a toll on your dental health, causing
stained teeth, bad breath, and gum disease. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco smoke can cause tooth enamel to become yellow or
brown, staining your teeth and making them look unattractive. Additionally,
smoking can cause tooth decay and gum disease, which can lead to tooth loss.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking can cause chronic bad breath by drying out your
mouth and reducing the amount of saliva your body produces. This can lead to
the buildup of bacteria in your mouth, causing unpleasant odors.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco can also damage your gums and lead to gum
disease. It can cause inflammation, which can lead to swelling, bleeding, and
eventual tooth loss. In severe cases, gum disease can even lead to bone loss in
the jaw.<o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBxmro89Z-UggR55x_2cTXFi2WYrJ-oiCYGbTdtD_uDyYlv4ZY2NVIwp0O89q6AZkXYiRCFD-C8s6LQJPQ1KcUOiHnONotyPd-02Hb4pIFlVQe5yTA0520sc6KzdNR4s1Id9qF46Yt5V4D1Tz-7xmBU1eIXaX-mLmICR7kohAn4DYo4vb9TPrrdk/s658/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="441" data-original-width="658" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKBxmro89Z-UggR55x_2cTXFi2WYrJ-oiCYGbTdtD_uDyYlv4ZY2NVIwp0O89q6AZkXYiRCFD-C8s6LQJPQ1KcUOiHnONotyPd-02Hb4pIFlVQe5yTA0520sc6KzdNR4s1Id9qF46Yt5V4D1Tz-7xmBU1eIXaX-mLmICR7kohAn4DYo4vb9TPrrdk/w400-h268/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Hair Thinning and Loss: The Link Between Smoking and
Hair Health</b></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">
If you're a smoker experiencing hair thinning and loss, it's not just a
coincidence. Studies have found that cigarette smoke disrupts the hair growth
cycle, leading to hair loss. Nicotine and other harmful chemicals in cigarette
smoke reduce blood flow to the hair follicles, decreasing nutrient and oxygen
supply, which weakens the hair and makes it more prone to breakage.<b><o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">When it comes to hair growth, there are three stages:
anagen (growth phase), catagen (transition phase), and telogen (resting phase).
Smoking can interfere with each of these stages by affecting the DNA and cell
division of hair follicles. Over time, this can lead to miniaturization of hair
and eventually, permanent hair loss.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Male pattern baldness is a common condition, and smoking
has been linked to an increased risk of developing it. Similarly, female
pattern baldness, which is a less common condition, has also been associated
with smoking. This is due to the harmful effects of smoking on the hair growth
cycle and blood flow to the scalp.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Skin Cancer Development<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking not only affects hair health but also increases
the risk of cancer, including skin cancer. Studies have shown that smokers are
more likely to develop skin cancer than non-smokers and that the risk increases
with the number of cigarettes smoked and the duration of smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">When tobacco smoke is inhaled, it releases harmful
chemicals that damage DNA and weaken the immune system. This makes it harder
for the body to fight off cancer cells that may develop due to prolonged
exposure to UV rays. Additionally, smoking reduces blood flow to the skin,
which can slow down the skin's natural healing process and increase the risk of
skin cancer.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and
studies have shown that smoking increases the risk of developing it. In fact,
smokers are 1.5 times more likely to develop melanoma than non-smokers. This is
because smoking reduces the body's ability to repair damaged DNA, which can
lead to the formation of cancerous cells.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Stained Fingers<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Think your hand looks sexy with a cigarette perched
between your fingers? If you've been smoking for a while, take a good look at
your fingernails and the skin of your hands. Tobacco can actually stain the
skin and nails, as well as the teeth. The good news is these stains tend to
fade when you quit smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Sources and Additional Information:<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.paho.org/en/more-100-reasons-quit-tobacco">https://www.paho.org/en/more-100-reasons-quit-tobacco</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://ash.org.uk/resources/view/how-smoking-affects-the-way-you-look">https://ash.org.uk/resources/view/how-smoking-affects-the-way-you-look</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/ss/slideshow-ways-smoking-affects-looks">https://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/ss/slideshow-ways-smoking-affects-looks</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/smoking-face-before-and-after">https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/smoking-face-before-and-after</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-58736012099301782502023-05-04T23:33:00.006-07:002023-05-04T23:33:55.869-07:00Cigars for a Judge<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">A defendant in a lawsuit involving large sums of money
was saying to his lawyer, "If I lose this case, I'll be ruined." <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"It's in the judge's hands now," said the
lawyer. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"Would it help if I sent the judge a box of
cigars?" asked the defendant. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"Oh no!" said the lawyer. "This judge is a
stickler for ethical behavior. A stunt like that would prejudice him against
you. He might even find you in contempt of the court. In fact, you shouldn't
even smile at the judge." <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Within the course of time, the judge rendered a decision
in favor of the defendant. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As the defendant left the courthouse, he said to his
lawyer, "Thanks for the tip about the cigars. It worked." <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"I'm sure we would have lost the case if you'd sent
them," said the lawyer. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"But I did send them," said the defendant. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"What?? You did?" <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"Yes, that’s how we won the case." <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"I don't understand," said the lawyer. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"It's easy. I sent the cheapest cigars that I could
find to the judge, but enclosed the plaintiff's business card..."<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3X3_2fNEA3bXyxbpxtXwdF53yzl-x-16XYjMICIMsHQgHQd2UiLEBlikscZ_xYZ5KFoz67Lnsox1YDpQzmk2uT8K1T5P50iRqX4DKKwKBxujdotD_IjXe-JP9QZ0Bf0OkZOsAA4tRPdiyKFkHF3ING-a-uPSGkkzs72fPYSeEO_q1k-njimqxtI/s600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="400" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt3X3_2fNEA3bXyxbpxtXwdF53yzl-x-16XYjMICIMsHQgHQd2UiLEBlikscZ_xYZ5KFoz67Lnsox1YDpQzmk2uT8K1T5P50iRqX4DKKwKBxujdotD_IjXe-JP9QZ0Bf0OkZOsAA4tRPdiyKFkHF3ING-a-uPSGkkzs72fPYSeEO_q1k-njimqxtI/w266-h400/11.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-62693880668936159122023-04-26T03:58:00.003-07:002023-04-26T03:58:47.513-07:00EasyQuit - Stop Smoking Assistant<p>If you are a smoker who wants
to quit, but are unsure of where to start, the EasyQuit system may be the
solution you have been looking for.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">First and foremost, the EasyQuit system is designed to
make quitting smoking easy and painless. The program uses a variety of
psychological techniques to help users break their addiction to tobacco. These
techniques include cognitive behavioral therapy, hypnosis, and mindfulness
meditation. By addressing the root causes of smoking addiction, the EasyQuit
system provides users with a foundation for long-term success.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In addition to its psychological approach, the EasyQuit
system also offers users practical tools to help them quit smoking. The program
provides a customized plan based on the user's unique smoking habits and
triggers. This plan includes step-by-step instructions on how to quit smoking,
as well as daily tasks to keep users on track. The EasyQuit system also
includes a virtual assistant to help users stay motivated and accountable
throughout their quitting journey.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Another key benefit of the EasyQuit system is that it is
flexible and can be tailored to fit any user's lifestyle or schedule. The
program offers multiple modes of delivery, including an app, an e-book, and
audio recordings. Users can choose the methods that work best for them,
depending on their preferences and availability. Additionally, the EasyQuit
system can be used at any time, from anywhere, making it a convenient option
for those who are always on the go.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Finally, the EasyQuit system has been proven to be
effective. The program has helped thousands of users quit smoking for good, and
many have reported experiencing positive changes in their health and well-being
as a result. Moreover, the program boasts a 95% success rate, which is higher
than most traditional smoking cessation methods.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Thus, the EasyQuit system offers smokers a unique and
effective approach to quitting smoking. By addressing both the psychological
and practical aspects of the addiction, the program provides a comprehensive
solution for those who are trying to break free from tobacco for good. Whether
you are a long-term smoker or have only recently started, the EasyQuit system
can help you quit smoking and reclaim your health and wellbeing.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcHnkp2JrDLyZCAqimjbNCnlc8FxA4U8EUtHyIfHA2E56criuKZ7tV9-R5rzdIr_bvqd8qUVHma_K-cdKKPhTipeKTfzGURpjaEdPNJ1c5sZr66y1vC3aPx45OQJePCUwEgQDwaBiHl_--gCk-Kl-t95Gf6Ha2NT2zpDsge3AW-8Dw5aMt7E2LtY/s266/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="253" data-original-width="266" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBcHnkp2JrDLyZCAqimjbNCnlc8FxA4U8EUtHyIfHA2E56criuKZ7tV9-R5rzdIr_bvqd8qUVHma_K-cdKKPhTipeKTfzGURpjaEdPNJ1c5sZr66y1vC3aPx45OQJePCUwEgQDwaBiHl_--gCk-Kl-t95Gf6Ha2NT2zpDsge3AW-8Dw5aMt7E2LtY/s1600/11.JPG" width="266" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Key Specs<b><o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Price: </b>Free, but the Pro version is
about $5<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Platform: </b>Apple and Android<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b>Tools: </b>Memory game to fight urges, a
journaling tool, and a log to keep track of triggers<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">EasyQuit has high ratings by both Apple and Android
users, the inclusion of a slow mode for gradual quitting, and multiple tools
for tracking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Pros & Cons<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Pros</b><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Includes a memory game to resist cravings<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Option to use slow mode to quit gradually<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l2 level1 lfo2; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Motivational badges to encourage you to quit<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Cons<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Some users have reported excessive pop-up ads<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Requires the user to maintain motivation to use
the app<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l1 level1 lfo3; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Tracks days and hours, but not minutes and
seconds<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Android Link: <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.herzberg.easyquitsmoking&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1">https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.herzberg.easyquitsmoking&hl=en_US&gl=US&pli=1</a><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXO69ybKXLeAj0fHGQZZMcZtYQ-27q5EfyYUSiCpF2-9LqX92jzZo7UY_uibBfMJ-irSNzwhtlPk_dRjKTsfYdJfkcQAFsLunnI14Z_LUpw9ogLCnywGxrFRC3wxjq51ZFW8J4fHMGuFuXBu8aiCb466QuwGN2ip0ieYHtEjAW0VDvTxHAd7V2IQ/s894/12.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="379" data-original-width="894" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpXO69ybKXLeAj0fHGQZZMcZtYQ-27q5EfyYUSiCpF2-9LqX92jzZo7UY_uibBfMJ-irSNzwhtlPk_dRjKTsfYdJfkcQAFsLunnI14Z_LUpw9ogLCnywGxrFRC3wxjq51ZFW8J4fHMGuFuXBu8aiCb466QuwGN2ip0ieYHtEjAW0VDvTxHAd7V2IQ/w400-h170/12.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-21444843883281260922023-04-21T07:34:00.002-07:002023-04-21T07:34:07.460-07:00History and present of Snus<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">Snus is a type of smokeless tobacco product that has been
used for centuries in Sweden and Norway. The term “snus” comes from the Swedish
word for snuff, which is “snuff.” Snus is different from other types of
smokeless tobacco products because it is not chewed or sucked but is placed
under the upper lip where it delivers nicotine through the mucous membranes.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b><o:p></o:p></b></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPLHb9r1VSNd1tSuWLMFl9049FSRdf6xKttVAMtY68hVUsnR2lXF6wQdVN4btzeQU-mt0j_fU0xXXSzsKMB3I68x7mdA77vV2BlqhpfnAfhgad1669J6saIjDV-xZnS639CHLMeCRdReUNGU6gQ00GFMz-VmqPRRUx2IPL3Tudy7V0UOypMiEF4I/s611/11111111111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="260" data-original-width="611" height="170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdPLHb9r1VSNd1tSuWLMFl9049FSRdf6xKttVAMtY68hVUsnR2lXF6wQdVN4btzeQU-mt0j_fU0xXXSzsKMB3I68x7mdA77vV2BlqhpfnAfhgad1669J6saIjDV-xZnS639CHLMeCRdReUNGU6gQ00GFMz-VmqPRRUx2IPL3Tudy7V0UOypMiEF4I/w400-h170/11111111111.JPG" width="400" /></a></b></div><b><br /> </b><p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>History of snus<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In the 16th century, Swedes began to mix tobacco leaves
with salt and water to place behind the upper lip. The snuff was born, but
prior that the predecessor went from the Caribbean, into the French court and
then across Europe as the latest fashion. Here is the history about snuff, from
the 1400s until today.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Europeans came into contact with tobacco for the first
time on the island of Hispaniola (Haiti) in the West Indies. It was in October
1492 when Columbus and his men went ashore on the island. On the beach, they
were met by indigenous people bearing gifts. The gifts included some dried
leaves, which the natives regarded as very valuable. In 1497, the monk, Ramon
Pane, came into contact with the predecessor of snus when he accompanied
Columbus on the second journey to America. He saw native priests inhale a
powder into their noses through a fork-like tube. According to researchers, the
powder probably did not consist exclusively of tobacco, and snus itself only
became significant to tobacco consumption when it was introduced in Europe. Spanish
and Portuguese seamen transported the tobacco plant to Europe. In the
mid-1500s, physicians in Lisbon started using the herb for medicinal purposes.
They thought that it could cure syphilis and cancer, among other illnesses. The
tobacco was cultivated in their backyards.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Since Paris was the model for all European courts, it was
not long before snus was being used in the rest of Europe. The first-time snus
was named in Sweden was in 1637. A customs document states that snus was
brought to Sweden from Porvoo in Finland. In the 1700s, the use of snus became
a must among the men and women of the aristocracy. A snus can was one of the
possessions of a fine gentleman in the 1700s. It had to be expensive and
handled with carefully controlled elegance. The cans were small masterpieces of
gold, silver or other precious material and rapidly became a most popular gift.
In the 1700s, the Swedish tobacco industry had its breakthrough. Tobacco was
planted in Skåne, Gränna and Alingsås, where the father of the potato, Jonas
Alströmer, started growing tobacco on a large scale. At the end of the 1700s,
tobacco was being grown in about 70 Swedish towns.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The French Revolution signified the end of the upper
class that traditionally used snus. Although snus experienced a temporary
upswing under Napoleon, a major snus user, it became unfashionable after his
fall, maybe even politically risky to continue using snus. Snus went out of
fashion and the burghers, who now came into power, switched to smoking cigars.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">During the 1800s, manufacturers began to produce local
varieties of the moist snus. Some popular suppliers include Petter Swartz with
Röda Lacket and J.A. Boman with General snus. However, the largest brand was
Ettan, Ljunglöfs Ettan. Jacob Fredrik Ljunglöf’s plant at Badstugatan, today
Sveavägen in Stockholm, traces its roots to a tobacco company founded around
1695. Jacob Fredrik Ljunglöf took over the company in 1822 and turned it into
the leading snus plant in Europe and the world. Practically all Swedish snus
manufacturers in the 1800s included a snus No. 1, No. 2 and No. 3 in their
assortments, which represented various qualities. However, Ljunglöf’s launch of
his No. 1 as a national quality product was a major success. Ljunglöf’s Ettan
became a household name. Today, it is still one of Sweden’s largest brands and
accounts for approximately one fifth of all snus sales in Sweden.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Snus began to regain its popularity in the late 1960s
when health risks associated with cigarette smoking were documented in several
reports. During the 1970s, the first portion-packed snus was introduced, an
important step for snus to reach a broader public. Since then, the sales
curve has pointed upwards.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBysRjtPT7FaiBi0FEgkL6vCxDtT4LJ6GgG1EfAXv3cdAiqpDo0qg47UT1-e67p1ZUsyKckRd3xVg5ITt9OVl5GhNWLoEcj5wJcESsOT_sYSuACf9seAO0AjqHN7ZjBiETaS_dF4x2b9vSfAiVUqUw02f7xty1ChXVGCM373oNXsQ2EvRpnHAmPo/s976/2222222222.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="549" data-original-width="976" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFBysRjtPT7FaiBi0FEgkL6vCxDtT4LJ6GgG1EfAXv3cdAiqpDo0qg47UT1-e67p1ZUsyKckRd3xVg5ITt9OVl5GhNWLoEcj5wJcESsOT_sYSuACf9seAO0AjqHN7ZjBiETaS_dF4x2b9vSfAiVUqUw02f7xty1ChXVGCM373oNXsQ2EvRpnHAmPo/w400-h225/2222222222.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Present of snus<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Recently, snus has gained a reputation for being less
harmful than smoking cigarettes because it doesn’t produce tar, which is one of
the most dangerous substances in cigarettes. Additionally, snus users are less
likely to develop lung cancer or other respiratory problems associated with
smoking. This has led some countries, including Sweden, to allow snus to be
sold as a less harmful alternative to smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">However, snus still has negative health consequences. It
can cause oral cancer, gum disease, and other health problems. Furthermore,
people who use snus are still exposed to other harmful chemicals, such as nicotine,
which can lead to addiction.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Today, snus is still popular in Sweden and Norway, but it
has also become more widely available in other parts of the world. In recent
years, its popularity has grown in the United States, where it is marketed as a
safer alternative to smoking for people who are unable to quit.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">In conclusion, the history and present of smoking snus is
complex. While it has been used for centuries and is seen by some as a safer
alternative to smoking, it still has negative health consequences, and the
debate over its safety continues. As with any tobacco product, it is important
that individuals make informed decisions about their use, and that governments
and health organizations continue to provide accurate information about the
potential risks and benefits.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Can snus Help You Quit?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the big problems with snus is that it keeps people
smoking who might otherwise quit. Instead of quitting, these smokers use snus
when they can’t light up and cigarettes when they can. Snus supporters suggest
that promoting snus as a way to quit smoking would be a benefit to the public.
But at least one study shows that this approach is not likely to work.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Snus as a product on a spectrum. At the most harmful end
of the spectrum are tobacco products you burn. At the least harmful end are
medicinal nicotine products, such as patches and gum. Snus falls into the
middle: safer than cigarettes but not as safe as nicotine gum. Snus products still
contain thousands of chemicals and still contain nicotine. They are addictive,
and they affect the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of cancer. They
are still tobacco products.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Norway Numbers<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->About 30 per cent of adults use tobacco, either
as cigarettes or snus.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Smoking is as common among women as men.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->There are clear socioeconomic differences. For
smoking and snus, tobacco use is lowest in the group with a longer education.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Historically, smokers have made up the largest
group of tobacco users, while the group that uses snus has been much smaller.
However, the difference between the groups has decreased in recent years and by
2017 the groups were of similar size.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Snus is the most common tobacco product used by
young people in the 16-24 year age group. Also among men in the 25-44 year age
group, snus use is significantly more common than smoking<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in;"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Sources and Additional Information:<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.swedishmatch.com/Our-business/smokefree/History-of-snuff/">https://www.swedishmatch.com/Our-business/smokefree/History-of-snuff/</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12954-019-0335-1">https://harmreductionjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12954-019-0335-1</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.tobaccoinaustralia.org.au/chapter-18-e-cigarettes/indepth-18a-smokeless-tobacco/18a-4-snus">https://www.tobaccoinaustralia.org.au/chapter-18-e-cigarettes/indepth-18a-smokeless-tobacco/18a-4-snus</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/features/snus-tobacco-health-risks">https://www.webmd.com/smoking-cessation/features/snus-tobacco-health-risks</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.fhi.no/en/op/hin/lifestyle/royking-og-snusbruk-i-noreg/">https://www.fhi.no/en/op/hin/lifestyle/royking-og-snusbruk-i-noreg/</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><o:p> </o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-14050745898696746362023-04-14T02:40:00.005-07:002023-04-14T02:40:39.138-07:00Tobacco Smoking in South Korea<p> In South Korea, smoking culture has seen significant
changes in the past decades. Smoking indoors and in public areas have been
banned, and the overall prevalence of smoking for both men and women has
decreased. However, there is still a high prevalence of tobacco use,
particularly with the rise of novel tobacco products like e-cigarettes and
heat-not-burn tobacco products. According to estimates from 2016, the current
cigarette smoking rate among people aged 15 years and older was approximately
21.5% overall - 37.9% for men and 5.6% for women. Tobacco use is responsible
for more than 46,700 deaths in the country every year, making it the number one
risk factor driving both death and disability in South Korea.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Furthermore, in recent years, there has been an increase
in the prevalence of smoking among adolescents and young female adults from
1980 to 2014. In 2016, the prevalence of cigarette smoking among Korean
adolescent males was 9.6%, while the prevalence among Korean adolescent females
was 2.7%.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Despite the efforts made to reduce smoking in the
country, the Korean tobacco industry remains strong, and many Koreans are loyal
to Korean cigarettes. According to a report by The Korea Herald, this loyalty
is due in part to the unique flavors and packaging of Korean cigarettes.</p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2xHhulG195qiSUaIEyqTaOMoMKikLZejH2T1I-FWRvCDi66SHXX5FLfPOAlDFGKtTwurqF8Yqi2rKl6J0I5PYFOxj93yPRRCbzPElc00vC9zOTj319AEd0tYXy66dGcR2gjhzCypvMPK7HWsbBrXaGCLPPj2ozjECFB-S_OOtTSLR70ZP-T4hTI/s956/55555555555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="956" height="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy2xHhulG195qiSUaIEyqTaOMoMKikLZejH2T1I-FWRvCDi66SHXX5FLfPOAlDFGKtTwurqF8Yqi2rKl6J0I5PYFOxj93yPRRCbzPElc00vC9zOTj319AEd0tYXy66dGcR2gjhzCypvMPK7HWsbBrXaGCLPPj2ozjECFB-S_OOtTSLR70ZP-T4hTI/w400-h249/55555555555.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><b><br /></b><p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Hi</b><b>story</b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Tobacco was first introduced into South Korea in the
early 1600s from Japan after the Imjin War. Initially, tobacco was used as a
medicine and was expensive, which motivated some to attempt to profit from it,
often by illegal means. <o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">While on a diplomatic mission to China in March 1643, one
Korean diplomat was apprehended by the Chinese authorities for smuggling a
cartload of tobacco.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">As more and more farmers cultivated tobacco, the price of
the drug dropped, making it even more affordable and further increasing its
usage.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Within a couple of decades, smoking tobacco had grown so
popular that Henrik Hamel, a Dutch sailor shipwrecked on Jeju Island, observed
that. One finds few people who do not smoke even by children of 4 or 5 years
old, and among men as well as among women.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Prior to the twentieth century, most Koreans smoked
tobacco using pipes. These pipes came in a variety of styles and length
depending on one’s social station. For the upper class, the pipes were made
with silver, gold, jade and other precious materials and were generally two or
four feet long.<o:p></o:p></p>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrylOLgtWoF33K_2yFrygGRqkqah4tUjl9N2Vnk4P3ApLf-hcun7MbqGvnzxcjnVSN_KX9Jg82UzeUu7wXp0l8O7kn5TMQq43UTunf4scsB7cxcAzgTbiy8kneJRVqOW23H2N682-f5wNWQk9w3tj42oLmx4MDJTIRYgu97aKW1E8u0OI3MGEgo4/s1536/777777777777.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1536" data-original-width="1093" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnrylOLgtWoF33K_2yFrygGRqkqah4tUjl9N2Vnk4P3ApLf-hcun7MbqGvnzxcjnVSN_KX9Jg82UzeUu7wXp0l8O7kn5TMQq43UTunf4scsB7cxcAzgTbiy8kneJRVqOW23H2N682-f5wNWQk9w3tj42oLmx4MDJTIRYgu97aKW1E8u0OI3MGEgo4/w285-h400/777777777777.jpg" width="285" /></a><br />
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Why Korean Smoke?<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Koreans are always under pressure from society, schools,
and the workplace; everyone has some type of stress. Interestingly, Koreans
tend to learn how to smoke to relieve their stress. It's very common to spot
office workers smoking in the smoking area during their lunchtime.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the reasons why the smoking rate of Korean men
overwhelmingly high is due to the conscription system. Having a chat with the
members of the same unit during smoking used to be considered as one of the
most important communications in the military. Moreover, until the end of 2008,
the military offered a tax-free system to purchase designated cigarettes, so it
was much more common for the soldiers to start smoking during their military
service.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Another reason for Koreans to start smoking is from peer
pressure and their curiosity. Peer pressure makes the teens feel excluded from
the friend group from avoiding smoking. Once they start smoking from their
younger age, it gets even harder for them to quit their smoking habit once they
grow up.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Smoking Etiquette<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Local smoking etiquette in South Korea is influenced by
Confucianism. For instance, smokers generally refrain from or seek permission
before lighting up in the presence of social superiors; a social superior could
be a boss, professor, parent, grandparent, or teacher.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Anti-Tobacco Laws<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">South Korea has implemented several tobacco control
policies to decrease smoking rates, including imposing taxes on e-cigarettes,
banning smoking in public areas, and banning indication of flavorings on
tobacco packaging or advertisement.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Since 1986, the warning texts on the cigarette box have
been legally obligated. Also, the Korean government introduced a "photo
warning display" that puts images that reminds the smokers of following
diseases that can be caused by smoking.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZkn5uJTadUKT97ABzpuWz88OV2gkMtTohWnYFim8KtEOv8jn8EQu3pmL3fEU-HnZgjjonVwBQ-ZSHi62-s0coqtWRiGih4wp6RHn5ig4m9-D4EefZAl1LFPF729iIs5CLD1AO2daowK1euIOxM-i1M8xLTcKY0jHMQ1_gt3JCcmTZI3crJOP9G8k/s875/6666666666666.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="875" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZkn5uJTadUKT97ABzpuWz88OV2gkMtTohWnYFim8KtEOv8jn8EQu3pmL3fEU-HnZgjjonVwBQ-ZSHi62-s0coqtWRiGih4wp6RHn5ig4m9-D4EefZAl1LFPF729iIs5CLD1AO2daowK1euIOxM-i1M8xLTcKY0jHMQ1_gt3JCcmTZI3crJOP9G8k/w400-h281/6666666666666.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Since 2002, in consideration of the effect on the minors,
the broadcasting station started to self-regulate the smoking scenes on TV. Nowadays,
you won't be able to spot smoking scenes from Korean dramas. Sometimes, the
actors grab a cigarette from the cigarette pack but never start smoking. Since
the government's laws and regulations have been reinforced, it is hard for the
producers to include any smoking scenes.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><b>Nationwide Policy<o:p></o:p></b></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Smoking is illegal and strictly prohibited in the
following premises:<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Office, multi-use or factory buildings larger
than 1,000 square meters in floor area (of which offices, conference rooms,
auditorium and lobby must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Institutions larger than 1,000 square meters in
floor area (of which classrooms, waiting rooms and lounges must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Shopping malls, department stores and
underground malls (of which any shop selling goods must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Hotels and resorts (of which the lobby must be
smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Universities (of which lecture rooms, lounges,
auditoria, cafeteria and conference hall must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Indoor sports facilities such as basketball and
volleyball courts which can seat more than 1,000 people (of which the seats and
pathways must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Social welfare facilities (of which the living
and working rooms, lounge, cafeteria and conference hall must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Airports, bus terminals and train stations (of
which waiting rooms, domestic flights, cabins, inside trains, subway car and
its platform and underground stations and underground pathways must be
smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Any vehicle that can seat more than 16 people.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Public baths (of which changing rooms and
bathing rooms must be smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Game arcades, comic book renting shops and
internet cafes.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Bars, restaurants, cafes, fast food restaurants
and bakeries, regardless of size.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Baseball or football/soccer stadiums which can
seat more than 1,000 people (of which the seats and pathways must be
smoke-free).<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Kindergartens, primary and secondary schools.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Hospitals and health centers.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Nurseries.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-bidi-font-family: Symbol; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: Symbol;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">·<span style="font: 7.0pt "Times New Roman";">
</span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Taxis.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i>Sources and Additional Information:<o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://10mag.com/how-tobacco-was-introduced-to-korea-throughout-history/">https://10mag.com/how-tobacco-was-introduced-to-korea-throughout-history/</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.creatrip.com/en/blog/7631">https://www.creatrip.com/en/blog/7631</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Smoking_in_South_Korea">https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Smoking_in_South_Korea</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="https://gsthr.org/en/countries/profile/kor/1/">https://gsthr.org/en/countries/profile/kor/1/</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><i><a href="http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200923000652">http://www.koreaherald.com/view.php?ud=20200923000652</a><o:p></o:p></i></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br />Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-62821434828439986492023-04-02T23:54:00.002-07:002023-04-02T23:54:33.680-07:00"Quitters, Inc." by Stephen King<p> </p><p class="MsoNoSpacing">One of the most famous short stories about smoking is
"Quitters, Inc." by Stephen King. It was first published in his
collection "Night Shift" in 1978.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The story follows a man named Dick Morrison, who decides
to quit smoking at the urging of his wife. He visits a company called Quitters,
Inc. that claims to have a high success rate in helping people quit smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUnNSf3dLKu3CsEnc2dYacaE-aV5qkajYHgAcEFeheobP6bWoWNFd9ChvPSLqjACUl_ZInDnkx7RmciN7xLG-0h1swHw9lHvZEU8FbS2avPhw4xzjKEaW6x3Y-xI5IvxWagfNznqHgOydpMV3WWN77ogd_8UGNAUt0AJ-qjpqvKDifxX_rVh4jS0c/s241/Screenshot%202023-04-02%20235212.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="207" data-original-width="241" height="344" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUnNSf3dLKu3CsEnc2dYacaE-aV5qkajYHgAcEFeheobP6bWoWNFd9ChvPSLqjACUl_ZInDnkx7RmciN7xLG-0h1swHw9lHvZEU8FbS2avPhw4xzjKEaW6x3Y-xI5IvxWagfNznqHgOydpMV3WWN77ogd_8UGNAUt0AJ-qjpqvKDifxX_rVh4jS0c/w400-h344/Screenshot%202023-04-02%20235212.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">However, Dick soon learns that Quitters, Inc. has some
unusual methods. The company uses extreme measures to ensure that their clients
do not smoke again. This includes electroshock therapy and harming their loved
ones if they fail to quit smoking.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">The story is a dark and satirical take on the struggles
of addiction and the lengths people will go to break free from it. It
highlights the dangers of relying on extreme methods to quit smoking and how
addiction can often be more powerful than any external force.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">"Quitters, Inc." has become a popular and
influential short story and has been adapted into various formats, including a
segment in the horror anthology film "Cat's Eye" and a radio drama.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">Struggling with addictions is no laughing matter, but Stephen
King is able to tap into the human psyche and add his own demented sense of
humor. Between people watching Dick from inside his own house to parking next
to him in a traffic jam, Quitters, Inc. will do everything in their power to
ensure that you follow through with quitting.<o:p></o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing"><o:p> </o:p></p>
<p class="MsoNoSpacing">You can listen the story for free from this website: <a href="https://bookaudio.online/600-quitters-inc.html">https://bookaudio.online/600-quitters-inc.html</a>,
or search for this story at YouTube (several audio versions are available to choose
from). <o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98lA_KO0QE4lvToZrU30KBn2b97ep6cZcGdABHzWf7mEONa4v2t7y9vAi974n7OJBuHODYU1ELCoPGQBdnwPYRRpwUYotkfIQK7GAZ2FqrZqqQcxpkD9gLuhVxBg2PPI1xf1_bcwQtUdZEwAVQo97FU-UjIL5Zhqcuqw3JHp4hHhGmHfv_U9RD0s/s1315/Stephen-King-Quitters-Inc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="735" data-original-width="1315" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh98lA_KO0QE4lvToZrU30KBn2b97ep6cZcGdABHzWf7mEONa4v2t7y9vAi974n7OJBuHODYU1ELCoPGQBdnwPYRRpwUYotkfIQK7GAZ2FqrZqqQcxpkD9gLuhVxBg2PPI1xf1_bcwQtUdZEwAVQo97FU-UjIL5Zhqcuqw3JHp4hHhGmHfv_U9RD0s/w400-h224/Stephen-King-Quitters-Inc.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p class="MsoNoSpacing"><br /></p>Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-35936943021077496502016-11-06T22:12:00.003-08:002016-11-06T22:12:51.540-08:00Burn Time by Ben Cooke<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<span lang="RU"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Burn Time</span></span></h2>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: small;">Author: Ben Cooke</span></i></h3>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Jon Doe. 135 pack years. 135. That’s 3 packs per day
since the age of 16. Does that not sound ridiculous? 20 to 24 cigarettes per
pack so 60-72 cigarettes per day… who knows if they were king size… gotta pack
in that extra 20% where you can. Did he not get the memo? I guess it’s too late
now.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The classic 9-5 work day has historically been divided
into 4 segments. An hour for lunch at noon and two 15 minute breaks; one for
splitting up the morning and the other for the afternoon. I heard somewhere
that when they designed the cigarette they were shooting for an average burn
time of 7 minutes. Seven minutes so you could squeeze two of them into your 15
minute work break.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Who knows if that was mere serendipity, but it fit nicely
so they rolled with it. No pun intended.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Best case scenario he smoked 20 packs. That’s 20
cigarettes X 7 minutes a pop = 420 minutes per day. That’s 7 hours per day with
a cigarette sparked, dangling from his lips. When do you find time to breath,
brother? Or is that a sensitive subject?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9H6jip8X_mYoTnUEaI4mM7CvJ_UDQFwpVTFCxBmhnopGO8WSZH25NO8af-fmBJ3VnU_jRlS-2En9nwfSCWK-DDQAwVrDTyeNNcWSkmeG8eZxFAzo7CGfrhtxl0Z7f7jBuk4P-iWH2gU/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin9H6jip8X_mYoTnUEaI4mM7CvJ_UDQFwpVTFCxBmhnopGO8WSZH25NO8af-fmBJ3VnU_jRlS-2En9nwfSCWK-DDQAwVrDTyeNNcWSkmeG8eZxFAzo7CGfrhtxl0Z7f7jBuk4P-iWH2gU/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
My ol’ granpappy drank a handle of quadruple x whiskey
every day with a pound of bacon, extra salt and n’er layed down the pipe. He
could lift a locomotive with one hand, run the mile under 3 minutes flat …. And
he had polio to boot…. Yeah we’ve all heard it before. “It’ll never happen to
me”. Conspiracy theories, physician/pharmaceutical/tobacco companies’
brainchild to milk me for every cent to my name on my way through, and on my
way out of this world.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I’d like to think in this day and age people have come to
terms with the fact that if you’re a chronic smoker then there’s a pretty
decent chance you’ll get a hot date with Davey Jone’s locker sooner than the
abstainers. And in fact we have seen a significant decline in smoking rates in
young people… which is something we should be proud of. But Jon Doe with 135
pack years under his belt has good company in his cohort. He’s part of a club
where the damage is pretty much done.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRuqwbnuvUJVJ4XOHia_1ObhXB28TCyWRJTjsRhFGrO0zw6AWs8EaSjp8HrerqoFNzN8ptKjB_znE9a3Yx5fMRYop3XpxhOydZqCXpqWugCyQPtltnlbC-eWIK0rZ2hq8eRTrOSsESusQ/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRuqwbnuvUJVJ4XOHia_1ObhXB28TCyWRJTjsRhFGrO0zw6AWs8EaSjp8HrerqoFNzN8ptKjB_znE9a3Yx5fMRYop3XpxhOydZqCXpqWugCyQPtltnlbC-eWIK0rZ2hq8eRTrOSsESusQ/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Too many itches. Too many flashes of flint bathing a
stream of sublimating butane, igniting in a perfect one-inch flame to be
cradled from the wind as a pair of pursed weathered lips suspends a cylinder of
relief in the dancing flicker. His cheeks pulse like bellows drawing the flame
towards the cylinder’s end with a force unseen. His eyes illuminate as the tip
ignites in glowing embers reflecting off his hands onto his focused face. His
hands slink to his sides, slipping the lighter into his front pocket in one,
cool, well rehearsed motion. Inhaling deeply, his chest expands and the first tingling
sensation of his actions begin to lurk. Quickly, he reaches up to his face and
snares the cigarette between his index and middle finger, pulling it from his
lips in one fell swoop. He arcs his neck backwards expelling a plume of smog
into the crisp night air. The nicotine is flowing now. An intricate network of
pipes, membranes and chambers lead to a familiar home. In fact, the only home
that matters when all is said and done. The muse for which all this effort
attempts to appease. The pleasure center of the brain, the nucleus accumbens.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Now bathing in nicotine it rewards its obedient young
cadet with a fleeting sprinkle of dopamine.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
He turns chuckling to his neighbor the caudate nucleus
with a menacing grin, “he’ll be back”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
A host of comorbidities to say the least. 6, 8, 10 life
threatening conditions all tracing back to a common thread. Smoking. Emphysema,
bronchitis, coronary artery disease, atherosclerosis, peripheral vascular
disease, stroke, renal failure, macular degeneration and periodontitis to name
a few. And now… a cerebral aneurysm.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ex-heroine addicts who travel the country regaling
gymnasiums full of malleable high-schoolers on smart life choices… shamefully
admit that there’s one crutch they haven’t been able to kick. Now free of alcohol,
marijuana, cocaine, ecstasy, coffee, gluten, red meat, GMO’s, doing yoga six
times a day and buying into any and every overnight health craze any twat has
tweeted in the last decade, his dark passenger still clings on tight. A voice
from the crowd in that gymnasium timidly asked in the question and answer
session (why): “if you have come this far, why do you think you still need
cigarettes”. He didn’t have an answer for us. I feel like him and Jon Doe had
at least that in common.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
We got a pulse back. I snapped at least 3 ribs on my
first compression. Enough force to dislodge the bag from the endotracheal tube;
wisps of off-white sputum puffing upwards in the expiring air. 3 bouts of
atropine and finally a shockable rhythm etched across the monitor. Clear!
Stepping back his body tensed and lifted a half second before slumping back to
a puddle of least effort. Blip, Blip, blip, 77 BPM.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzxcE7YXES69UPrvT8d5iI1eW1leA4HYWDWajfrp1paCkgiocwiJI2rW2CFc4oQANA4vblWCGOoKNr4q24TAP5z2Qh-KVC3E-8NypM50cDjwhGN8P0h_pY83z6-AefAF5-DhJnnPJdZc/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGzxcE7YXES69UPrvT8d5iI1eW1leA4HYWDWajfrp1paCkgiocwiJI2rW2CFc4oQANA4vblWCGOoKNr4q24TAP5z2Qh-KVC3E-8NypM50cDjwhGN8P0h_pY83z6-AefAF5-DhJnnPJdZc/s400/13.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Walking back upstairs to the resident’s lounge the door
was barely closed before “code blue ICU” was repeated over the loudspeaker.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Deja vu. A series of compressions, stimulants and
electrical pulsations brought the vehicle up to speed again but we knew this
was only momentum and could only fight the resistance of a strong headwind for
so long.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Daddy I love you” sobbed a 20 something girl as a pack
of scared and downtrodden siblings encircled the bed, lower eyelids welling in
tears as the staff members respectfully shuffled out.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
“Daddy I love you so much”. The pack doesn’t look so
different in age from my siblings and I.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOD3NZFeJ3K6wI3jh3b0dJzl9OIv0a5wYFs9FarDqoYi2hiE8VjLzfe2wKcWHE6ScTL0JzD7TMf4xRG1TpKNLxwRM1t64eCWyKel7sjNhav725llR9Tges0IBsipdbhL2z_IwV9KwoWA/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="385" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQOD3NZFeJ3K6wI3jh3b0dJzl9OIv0a5wYFs9FarDqoYi2hiE8VjLzfe2wKcWHE6ScTL0JzD7TMf4xRG1TpKNLxwRM1t64eCWyKel7sjNhav725llR9Tges0IBsipdbhL2z_IwV9KwoWA/s400/14.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Who knows if Jon Doe would have succumbed Monday December
8 2014 at the age of 61 if his ‘friend’ hadn’t offered him that first butt
behind the bleachers in high school. I’ll never know and nor is it my place to
pass judgement. This is one thing, and one thing only. A crippling loss in a
young family which cannot be undone. Our condolences offer no comfort. Fond
recollections are mere lip service. Deepest sympathies fail to fill the void.
And sullen hearts cannot escape the pain.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
In lieu of flowers… plant a seed. Not a seed that can
grow into leaves to be harvested, cured, shredded and rolled, but a seed of
knowledge. To ensure this generation will be the last to see loved ones fall at
the hand of tobacco. Expunging its flame forever.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Source: <a href="http://www.imagecurve.com/short-stories-about-smoking-burn-time/">http://www.imagecurve.com/short-stories-about-smoking-burn-time/</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-947534651540864022016-08-28T22:14:00.001-07:002016-08-28T22:14:14.747-07:00SilkQuit Meter v2.60<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The current version of SilkQuit calculates the time you
have been quit, the total amount of money not spent on your habit, and the time
you've saved by not smoking. Your quit duration is shown in years, calendar
months, weeks, hours, minutes and seconds. By using a configurable hot-key
combination you can paste detailed quit information into any document, handy if
you're involved with an online support forum.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSEKGBjNinMGbB4GA9xl3cBBckXk_LYxmbbp3JjebS1N4sFhlyFs3tCyVmue_saQX-r88CfDJ2rhb3mkaBKS_kDCh1zfvXERV3IBbVxVRdPi5X9T-oSU84yNlPhgraWUoyMPgdFN4tElU/s1600/QM_SilkQuit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSEKGBjNinMGbB4GA9xl3cBBckXk_LYxmbbp3JjebS1N4sFhlyFs3tCyVmue_saQX-r88CfDJ2rhb3mkaBKS_kDCh1zfvXERV3IBbVxVRdPi5X9T-oSU84yNlPhgraWUoyMPgdFN4tElU/s1600/QM_SilkQuit.jpg" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Features<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
SilkQuit v2.60 has the following features:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Designed to be unobtrusive by minimizing to a small
icon on your taskbar<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* The only meter in the world that calculates calendar
months correctly<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Tracks your true quit time; does not add/remove an hour
during daylight savings and standard time changes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* International currencies and time formats supported
automatically<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* One-touch operation to "hot-paste" your quit
details into any document<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Calculates time quit in years, months, weeks, days,
hours, minutes and seconds<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Calculates number of cigarettes not smoked since you
quit<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Calculates money saved in your local currency<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Calculates time saved by not smoking<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Customise the text which appears in your quit details<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Multiple users supported<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Compatibility<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
SilkQuit v2.60 is compatible with:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Windows 10, Windows 7, Windows Vista<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Windows XP, Windows 2000, Windows NT<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
* Windows ME, Windows 98, and Windows 95<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHTL0PKzxiV-ovAQnABs9f6Z3uHKJZJhesbW3HRXggsn5T6REpiaxFkUPjEC_9ZlYVy3zroyhgkIzkz9mssBHxP90WvF43ktY7F-QnXbIz9OSzkpzHvOVgccACJ06g7HwjxtjtnNVtTI/s1600/silkquit1-56b36d9f3df78cdfa004d60a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCHTL0PKzxiV-ovAQnABs9f6Z3uHKJZJhesbW3HRXggsn5T6REpiaxFkUPjEC_9ZlYVy3zroyhgkIzkz9mssBHxP90WvF43ktY7F-QnXbIz9OSzkpzHvOVgccACJ06g7HwjxtjtnNVtTI/s400/silkquit1-56b36d9f3df78cdfa004d60a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Additionally, the meter can be configured for chewing
tobacco.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Once installed, a small white icon with purple letters
spelling SQ appears in the task bar at the bottom of your computer screen, and
when you click on that, your customized quit info is displayed. You can hot-paste your quit information into
documents, email, and online posts by clicking control += . It will look like this:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Thirteen years, eight months, two weeks, one day, 1 hour,
1 minute and 3 seconds. 125151 cigarettes not smoked, saving $21,901.44. Life
saved: 1 year, 9 weeks, 13 hours, 15 minutes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Website: <a href="https://www.silkquit.org/quit-meter">https://www.silkquit.org/quit-meter</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-66281954509019514832016-06-03T23:45:00.002-07:002016-06-03T23:49:17.990-07:00Infants and Children Theme in Tobacco Advertising<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
People who remember when tobacco advertising was a
prominent part of the media landscape — and others who recall what they learned
in Marketing 101 — probably recollect that actors like Barbara Stanwyck and
athletes like Mickey Mantle routinely endorsed cigarettes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
But how about doctors and other medical professionals,
proclaiming the merits of various cigarette brands? Or politicians? What about
cartoon characters in cigarette ads? Or children? Babies? Even Santa Claus?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>The following
images and texts were taken from the detailed Stanford University research into
the impact of Tobacco Advertising.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Babies<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
It is shocking to see the plethora of tobacco brands
which incorporated images of infants in their advertisements, but these images
had multiple values to tobacco advertisers. For one, depictions of babies in
cigarette ads reinforced the respectability of smoking as a part of normal
family life, a perception often promulgated by the tobacco industry. Further,
the images of youngsters tended to send a reassuring message to consumers about
the healthfulness of the product. Babies, especially, represent purity,
vibrancy, and life concepts which can be dangerous when tied to tobacco
products. Finally, these depictions of infants were an obvious ploy to attract
females to smoking as part of the industry s campaign to expand the pool of
women smokers.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhvzEVweZPLMbww3aLffM022uEyFFh46vI7mw4EP2LzCc8giJupgnuKFF-hwIwUUx7hiblKogxLXogX9m6pAokM4wc12qY0QVbLbdYeeIW0EntcvgGmgWHmUbgm4egXJuBnjZ9tz7fqc/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNhvzEVweZPLMbww3aLffM022uEyFFh46vI7mw4EP2LzCc8giJupgnuKFF-hwIwUUx7hiblKogxLXogX9m6pAokM4wc12qY0QVbLbdYeeIW0EntcvgGmgWHmUbgm4egXJuBnjZ9tz7fqc/s640/11.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFioCXA2NZLhDuDNatsitGAxGTODGKg4iW1R82DLSAFs5HSMD2t1XmAwHLPZwXlqjtfsR5VybhyctLc0Wdup_5NkZCUlF59TFNsS9-RzkY5uK-OmdQYz-Oejdz6pKqwTFpEZT8SaPbak/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrFioCXA2NZLhDuDNatsitGAxGTODGKg4iW1R82DLSAFs5HSMD2t1XmAwHLPZwXlqjtfsR5VybhyctLc0Wdup_5NkZCUlF59TFNsS9-RzkY5uK-OmdQYz-Oejdz6pKqwTFpEZT8SaPbak/s640/12.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yrBbdS8e9uHQf7UEpOC97ZNMYSkIGyvBeRc6d-nzJQqvYmDUoEwxgMmGZ5BicMZD_egYw8x7sXLt6SJLXKqjehbAbZl3RwfMA1LT5jH6cI82CG-A7b703aXlFyJybfb6ajuLJxvk_OE/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7yrBbdS8e9uHQf7UEpOC97ZNMYSkIGyvBeRc6d-nzJQqvYmDUoEwxgMmGZ5BicMZD_egYw8x7sXLt6SJLXKqjehbAbZl3RwfMA1LT5jH6cI82CG-A7b703aXlFyJybfb6ajuLJxvk_OE/s640/13.jpg" width="242" /></a></div>
<br />
<o:p></o:p>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Marlboro, 1951<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Children<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Children have played a huge role in tobacco advertising
over the decades, and images of children fulfill multiple purposes for tobacco
advertisers. Cigarette firms have long used “pictures of health” and “perfect
family projection” in cigarette ads to foster smoking as an acceptable, healthy
lifestyle, bringing happiness and prosperity to the families. Ads like these also
want consumers to associate smoking with outdoor sport and recreational
activities such as tennis, bicycling, sailing and horseback riding.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrDcnYE426cnEHil_Lc2RtQnhAoTY_ps_1aOebZyp5Xv2HBnt98YVoCbQImW8oMWfPeKhQiLT1ScTZMGSN36pmIbYJjW9L0VnLJF74dzCh0tYu4dIAueFYOrtFa-uyH3FziRztvN4NNw/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnrDcnYE426cnEHil_Lc2RtQnhAoTY_ps_1aOebZyp5Xv2HBnt98YVoCbQImW8oMWfPeKhQiLT1ScTZMGSN36pmIbYJjW9L0VnLJF74dzCh0tYu4dIAueFYOrtFa-uyH3FziRztvN4NNw/s400/14.jpg" width="311" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JiPmWAvskNZlPTT4eSUDeErLVWrZSb0KpXOWeEdzOpw6FWxjicwZYqofxSFi-e2Np3uzi5qu_2ViCb0PhY8ydEABkBIrdYG1JcI0BUvmQUkHsIxXReU68gSKXkWr1pe2sH1WI9XZQJo/s1600/15.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1JiPmWAvskNZlPTT4eSUDeErLVWrZSb0KpXOWeEdzOpw6FWxjicwZYqofxSFi-e2Np3uzi5qu_2ViCb0PhY8ydEABkBIrdYG1JcI0BUvmQUkHsIxXReU68gSKXkWr1pe2sH1WI9XZQJo/s400/15.jpg" width="315" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLES11xpQ-C_PAwPMLCioOHwupNpSZbOq4OmjNqi0COr96dL7XFRzWv3kL6Eeww_Po88ucKv2N-8TlKucnZNEUhVrDCTD5o19Yrvx3ZY2cTeuAkcgfbeX_davzmu2pgQRTvV7q3h3Ot60/s1600/16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLES11xpQ-C_PAwPMLCioOHwupNpSZbOq4OmjNqi0COr96dL7XFRzWv3kL6Eeww_Po88ucKv2N-8TlKucnZNEUhVrDCTD5o19Yrvx3ZY2cTeuAkcgfbeX_davzmu2pgQRTvV7q3h3Ot60/s400/16.jpg" width="313" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<i>L&M, 1960-1962<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Gift for Daddy<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Depictions of children with their mothers or fathers in
cigarette ads have the enormous ability to reinforce the respectability of
smoking as a part of normal family life. Because this perception is often
promulgated by the tobacco industry, it is no surprise that many tobacco
advertisements took advantage of Father’s Day. Indeed, many print ads,
particularly from the Baby Boomer era, depict children gifting cigarette
cartons to their fathers. The images of youngsters worked to send a reassuring
message to consumers about the healthfulness of the product, as youngsters
represent purity, vibrancy, and life concepts which can be dangerous when tied
to tobacco products. An R.J. Reynolds ad from 1953, for example, depicts a
woman and her two children ready to surprise Dad with Cavaliers. The
accompanying text speaks directly to children, essentially selling the tobacco
products to kids: Make your Dad s eyes light up as he lights up his favorite
smoke with love from you to him on Father s Day 1953<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdA3l-eyl6MN4fQRDBJb1DNbL4rVxl-9Fuya3Xk7AB9BokUKTWMET2plEH1V2VVUDvrZXPbK-jazcJmNo7nfrjFq__ElCmOcVW7BBHMdefk9bV4fF_TyvTo2zA6vikts3gKYZlzLOE2mQ/s1600/17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdA3l-eyl6MN4fQRDBJb1DNbL4rVxl-9Fuya3Xk7AB9BokUKTWMET2plEH1V2VVUDvrZXPbK-jazcJmNo7nfrjFq__ElCmOcVW7BBHMdefk9bV4fF_TyvTo2zA6vikts3gKYZlzLOE2mQ/s400/17.jpg" width="302" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Camel, 1948<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXh5A-3oABd5AprSqcTM_Q4vbzZwDJAwuSJBr0ns2BBt9CHBCaAonDHd-DhreoodgtKljpuLbdScfuhMdH7Gja0UMPGMzhg-dGgV_RlNPrSrFEq46s-6ENAsoRW1Z29c4h0o1Uvmc24jc/s1600/18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXh5A-3oABd5AprSqcTM_Q4vbzZwDJAwuSJBr0ns2BBt9CHBCaAonDHd-DhreoodgtKljpuLbdScfuhMdH7Gja0UMPGMzhg-dGgV_RlNPrSrFEq46s-6ENAsoRW1Z29c4h0o1Uvmc24jc/s400/18.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
<br /><o:p></o:p>
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<i>Chesterfield, 1946<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<i><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDpFVdDZcVpvprDDBMWKPlM9hyayJpfN2vpg9Ocyxg2Wl8hWWSFi3bEnsf47C_q2i5wYuZXSXjICXbUfDl38N_UWv-w4a-ezqlXAVGIlcTEhm-qSyg5-71vUnnQUhmdhSS-MwQdiADOo/s1600/19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipDpFVdDZcVpvprDDBMWKPlM9hyayJpfN2vpg9Ocyxg2Wl8hWWSFi3bEnsf47C_q2i5wYuZXSXjICXbUfDl38N_UWv-w4a-ezqlXAVGIlcTEhm-qSyg5-71vUnnQUhmdhSS-MwQdiADOo/s400/19.jpg" width="306" /></a></i></div>
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<i>Cavalier, 1953<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<b>Santa Puffing<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Cherished Icons can be found in a number of Tobacco Ads.
Indeed, the tobacco industry has made every effort to associate itself with
noble institutions, patriotic themes, and cultural icons that connote
respectability. Among the innumerable examples are George Washington, Mt.
Rushmore, British royalty, the US flag, the Statue of Liberty, soldiers,
astronauts, and even the beloved family pet. Even more prevalent were cultural
symbols which brought to mind happy times and celebration, particularly Santa
Claus. There were numerable examples of ads featuring jolly old Saint Nick
puffing away with obvious pleasure on a cigarette, cigar or pipe.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGh4Ng4iFz7dhpg8UQrNf1WMdMNAvXf8Cd38MS92J0afwGkyxcwfI0jsE8EblSXNh-eLKHdb6o7i4G9Lo1shMygRrBe2Q7AwSpnkKs9zWtTVZx59oUQazvipMUQHm8IdDq6-gIuPSfnI0/s1600/20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGh4Ng4iFz7dhpg8UQrNf1WMdMNAvXf8Cd38MS92J0afwGkyxcwfI0jsE8EblSXNh-eLKHdb6o7i4G9Lo1shMygRrBe2Q7AwSpnkKs9zWtTVZx59oUQazvipMUQHm8IdDq6-gIuPSfnI0/s400/20.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Lucky Strike, 1935<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWCzeqsCmAcjcJTKaxUSKh7LEGk5hGC80OKKuG1zAk9-edAawMZSI1vzyt4ke3nonSpZw6iL1z17KCb-pAmZQQmVxbVL0TSys45pw7CzhW1JnJRkw62DW_sLiwcd17pk6wGRYwVQheQs/s1600/21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzWCzeqsCmAcjcJTKaxUSKh7LEGk5hGC80OKKuG1zAk9-edAawMZSI1vzyt4ke3nonSpZw6iL1z17KCb-pAmZQQmVxbVL0TSys45pw7CzhW1JnJRkw62DW_sLiwcd17pk6wGRYwVQheQs/s400/21.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p>
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<i>Murad, 1918<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifa44A-eADi4_QUyZgSWWjwVbfBbpJ-k4JzXMUFfYa0dF2EEJzqUQ7QCRj4fVOGSlbyS1o-6Hg7bKh9HRJ6HP3sAso3z2QjnnArzK2ALpez0ltzoOGlOSf_YAm7TNO306CSmJ8zbN2dA4/s1600/22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifa44A-eADi4_QUyZgSWWjwVbfBbpJ-k4JzXMUFfYa0dF2EEJzqUQ7QCRj4fVOGSlbyS1o-6Hg7bKh9HRJ6HP3sAso3z2QjnnArzK2ALpez0ltzoOGlOSf_YAm7TNO306CSmJ8zbN2dA4/s400/22.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Tareyton, 1970<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Sources and
Additional Information:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><a href="http://tobacco.stanford.edu/tobacco_main/subtheme.php?token=fm_mt016.php">http://tobacco.stanford.edu/tobacco_main/subtheme.php?token=fm_mt016.php</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><a href="http://www.pecentral.org/lessonideas/Tricks_of_the_Trade.pdf">http://www.pecentral.org/lessonideas/Tricks_of_the_Trade.pdf</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/07/business/media/07adco.html?_r=0">http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/07/business/media/07adco.html?_r=0</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-2090291214610298972015-12-14T23:09:00.000-08:002015-12-14T23:09:08.677-08:00Rock n Roll Suicide by David Bowie<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9jg4ekLG9Zo" width="420"></iframe><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Lyrics:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Time takes a cigarette, puts it in your mouth<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
You pull on your finger, then another finger, then your
cigarette<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The wall-to-wall is calling, it lingers, then you forget<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ohhh how how how, youre a rock n roll suicide<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Youre too old to lose it, too young to choose it<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
And the clocks waits so patiently on your song<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
You walk past a cafe but you dont eat when youve lived
too long<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Oh, no, no, no, youre a rock n roll suicide<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Chev brakes are snarling as you stumble across the road<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
But the day breaks instead so you hurry home<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Dont let the sun blast your shadow<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Dont let the milk float ride your mind<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Youre so natural - religiously unkind<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Oh no love! youre not alone<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Youre watching yourself but youre too unfair<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
You got your head all tangled up but if I could only<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Make you care<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Oh no love! youre not alone<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
No matter what or who youve been<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
No matter when or where youve seen<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
All the knives seem to lacerate your brain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Ive had my share, Ill help you with the pain<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Youre not alone<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Just turn on with me and youre not alone<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Lets turn on with me and youre not alone (wonderful)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Lets turn on and be not alone (wonderful)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Gimme your hands cause youre wonderful (wonderful)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Gimme your hands cause youre wonderful (wonderful)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Oh gimme your hands.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=ka1df7" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" src="http://i68.tinypic.com/ka1df7.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>“Rock ‘n’ Roll
Suicide” is a song by David Bowie, of his 1972 album, The Rise and Fall of
Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders From Mars. Many fans consider this song as one
of the best Bowie Tracks if not the very best. David Bowie is widely regarded
as one of the most influential writers of pop music.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><br /></i></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-65905465013866430212015-10-26T23:37:00.002-07:002023-04-02T23:52:55.193-07:00Smoke-Me! Free Windows Phone Anti-Smoking App<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
This APP helps you to get rid of (some) cigarettes every
day! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Tobacco contains the chemical nicotine. Smoking
cigarettes can lead to nicotine addiction. The addiction begins when nicotine
acts on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors to release neurotransmitters such as
dopamine, glutamate, and gamma-aminobutyric acid. Cessation of smoking leads to
symptoms of nicotine withdrawal such as anxiety and irritability. For these “heavy” smokers we recommend to
look for professional support when they want to stop smoking… <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
This APP has another target – it is to reduce the number
of cigarettes per day by taking use of the PLACEBO effect, which is known very
well from the medical treatment discipline.
Recent serious scientific studies have proven that brain influences the
feeling of hunger and satiety a lot. And in same way the brain also controls in
most cases the desire for smoking a cigarette.
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
This app takes use of these consolidated scientific
findings and transfers them to the mobile device approach as the mobile is with
you most of the time. It is the first APP worldwide implementing this
innovative approach! This app helps the brain to feel like „smoking a
cigarette“, when there is a desire something and after about one minute this
desire will quickly disappear. And no unnecessary nicotine or other harmful
substances enter the body – which are well-known as unhealthy. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
How it works? Very simple: There is an animation, which
runs about 40 seconds. See the graphics, listen the sound, feel the vibration
and be aware that also electromagnetic waves are sent out to you. All of this
will stimulate in your brain the smoking feeling and the satiation at the
end. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Let it work for you – the same as it worked for a lot of
others in same way! Never before it was so easy to reduce smoking to 50% of
before!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Cost: Free<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Rating 3.6 out of 5</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Website: <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/apps/smoke-me/9nblggh09fp1">https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/store/apps/smoke-me/9nblggh09fp1</a><o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-43119447011842455022015-09-18T21:51:00.004-07:002015-09-18T21:51:52.769-07:00The Cigarette Duet<br />
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Produced By:
Chelsea Nikkel (Princess Chelsea) & Jonathan Bree <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4TV_128Fz2g" width="500"></iframe><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Lyrics:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette and it cannot be that bad <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Honey don't you love me and you know it makes me sad? <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette like you always used to do <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was different then, I don't need them to be cool <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette and it harms your pretty lungs <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well it's only twice a week so there's not much of a
chance <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette it'll soon be only ten <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Honey, can you trust me? When I want to stop, I can <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette and it's just a Marlboro Light <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe, but is it worth it if we fight? <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette that I got from Jamie-Lee <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well she's gonna get a smack and I'm gonna give you three
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
[Together]:<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette and I only did it once / <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette it'll soon be only ten<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's only twice a week so there's not much of a chance / <o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It'll make you sick, so there's not much of a chance<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette and I'm sorry that I did it /<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
It's just a cigarette, you'll be sorry that you did it.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
Honey can you trust me? When I want to stop, I can<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
[Both]:<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
La, la, la, la, la, la, la, la<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Chelsea Nikkel,
better known by her stage name Princess Chelsea, is an experimental 'space pop'
musician from Auckland, New Zealand, and a previous member of twee pop band The
Brunettes and Auckland band Teenwolf. Nikkel is associated with the Lil' Chief
Records collective and is a part-time member of Auckland soul group The Cosbys
and Disciples of Macca, a Paul McCartney covers band featuring members of The
Brunettes, Ruby Suns, Bressa Creeting Cake and Lawrence Arabia. Nikkel works in
Auckland as a composer.<o:p></o:p></i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><a href="http://tinypic.com/?ref=jq26up" target="_blank"><img alt="Image and video hosting by TinyPic" border="0" src="http://i59.tinypic.com/jq26up.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Sources and
Additional Information: <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><a href="http://www.metrolyrics.com/the-cigarette-duet-lyrics-princess-chelsea.html">http://www.metrolyrics.com/the-cigarette-duet-lyrics-princess-chelsea.html</a></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Chelsea">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Princess_Chelsea</a><o:p></o:p></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-20514585421454601722015-08-26T23:52:00.000-07:002015-08-26T23:52:06.613-07:00New Street People Song (Cold Weather Version)<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<i>Author/Singer:
Christine Lavin<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/1FpjTW3"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/1FpjTW3.jpg" height="400" title="source: imgur.com" width="266" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
its 3 degrees Fahrenheit
snow is falling down,<br />
people are huddled in doorways all over town<br />
stamping their feet to keep warm, blowing on their hands<br />
it’s sad to see this misery in such a wealthy land,<br />
the land such a wealthy land.<br />
some speak English, some speak French, some Spanish<br />
and Japanese (arigato)<br />
they have more in common than a shivering in their knees<br />
all of them are slave to the demon cigarette<br />
this song is about people who smoke, if you haven’t figured that out yet<br />
smokers are the new street people that you see wherever you go<br />
coughing hacking lighting up in the wind and the rain and the snow<br />
in the fog and the hill and the dust and the heat<br />
cigarette smokers have become the uptown equivalent of the valory bum<br />
(bum bum bum bum bum)</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
now i can hear you smokers getting mad at me<br />
but come on we’ve tried everything to get you to quit<br />
we’ve begged we’ve pleaded we’ve read you gruesome statistics<br />
and still you smoke!<br />
now were trying a new tactic, embarrassing you into quitting<br />
think of this song as tough love (tough love)<br />
its only a matter of time before street venders get wise,<br />
its hard enough selling hot dogs without the smoke getting<br />
in their eyes (smoke gets in their eyes)<br />
and in their hair and in their lungs and buns and hotdog meat<br />
they’ll ask the city to pass a law to ban smoking on the street<br />
the street, no smoking on the street<br />
if they cant smoke on the street or in the buildings up above<br />
where will smokers go to partake of what they love?<br />
restaurants? (no) bars? (uh uh) taxi cabs? (no way)<br />
smokers are the most oppressed minority today<br />
smokers are the new street people that you see wherever you go<br />
coughing hacking lighting up in the wind and the rain and the snow<br />
in the fog and () and the dust and the heat<br />
cigarette smokers have become the uptown equivalent of the valory bum<br />
(bum bum bum bum bum)</div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br />
so if you see a smoker on the sidewalk pity her, pity him<br />
their bad habits force them to be on the outside looking in<br />
and all the world power and nicotine patches haven’t helped a bit<br />
in summer they wheeze in winter they freeze and still they just don’t quit<br />
don’t quit, and still they just don’t quit<br />
years ago i saw a bumper sticker i still recall today, it said:<br />
(kissing a smoker is just like licking a dirty ashtray)<br />
if that doesn’t make you think twice about<br />
how smoking offends<br />
go lick a dirty ashtray and tell me would you want to do that again (no)<br />
again (yuck), would you ever do that again (uh uh)<br />
smokers are the new street people that you see wherever you go<br />
coughing hacking lighting up in the wind and the rain and the snow<br />
in the fog and () and the dust and the heat<br />
cigarette smokers have become the uptown equivalent of the valory bum<br />
(bum bum bum bum bum)<br />
TOUGH LOVE!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/qaBYCtm"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/qaBYCtm.jpg" height="300" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Listen the audio track
here (sample): <a href="http://www.madmusic.com/samples/c/h/Christine_Lavin_+_The_New_Port_Richey_Bodacious_Butt_Kickers_-_New_Street_People_(cold_weather_wersion)__The.mp3">http://www.madmusic.com/samples/c/h/Christine_Lavin_+_The_New_Port_Richey_Bodacious_Butt_Kickers_-_New_Street_People_(cold_weather_wersion)__The.mp3</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Source: <a href="http://www.songresource.com/christine-lavin/new-street-people-cold-weather-version-lyrics/">http://www.songresource.com/christine-lavin/new-street-people-cold-weather-version-lyrics/</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-10937456434552135352015-06-29T22:31:00.000-07:002015-06-29T22:31:02.807-07:0010 Thoughts on Why Smoking Cigarettes is Good!<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>I quit smoking
about year-and-a-half ago, but I still miss the social attributes of cigarette smoking.
No, I am not coming back to the nicotine addiction, because I value my freedom
from nicotine really high, but I know, that something I will miss there forever…
something important, which never-smoker will be not be able to understand and
appreciate.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Thus, even for me personally
the question “quit or not” is not an open question anymore, I still try to
provide leveraged overview of all pros and cons to help people who would like
to quit, but are aggregated by the stupid and mostly annoying anti-smoking
official propaganda. <o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/XigTX8k"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/XigTX8k.jpg" height="400" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
This post, found on Reddit social network, presented by <a href="http://www.reddit.com/user/Radioactive24">Radioactive24</a>, describes
the thoughts on why author keep smoking regardless of understanding it harmful
effect.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->1.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->I
met the majority of my friends in college by seeing who was outside at 2
o'clock in the morning having a cigarette between writing papers or fits of
insomnia. I had more philosophical discussions and meaningful life talks on
those benches than I have had in any counseling sessions.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->2.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->If
you are not willing to even give me the time of day because I have a pinch of
dried leaves rolled into a tiny cylinder of paper and lit on fire between my
fingers, and that is your only reason to not talk to me, then thank you for
removing yourself from the equation and not wasting my time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->3.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->There
is something Zen and meditative about sitting down with a bag of tobacco and
rolling your own cigarettes. The mechanical muscle memory of making something
relieves you of having to focus on other things.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->4.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Almost
everything seems better with a cigarette. Long drives in the car. Pulling an
all-nighter. Coffee. Sex. Taking a poop. The only thing I can think of that it
makes worse is a stuffy nose and a sore throat from a cold, and god dammit if I
just do not soldier through that.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->5.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->When
she said "I love you too, but I can't think of you that way" after
one and half months of having quit smoking, the following two days of snorting
Vicodin and drinking myself into a stupor made going out to buy a pack of
cigarettes a much wiser choice.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->6.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->As
an introvert, I am overwhelmed by crowds. The irony of "stepping outside
to get fresh air" gives me a temporary eject button that allows me to
regain my composure and have space to breathe.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->7.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->We
made a deal; I'd smoke less if you'd drink less. I'm back up to a pack a day
and you continue to get black out drunk on the weekends, but you broke your end
of the deal first, so I guess we'll see who fares better in the end.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->8.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->There's
something beautiful about the way that smoke curls through the air, interacts
with sunlight, and vanishes like it never existed. It really makes me want to
capture it in a photograph or draw it on a pad of paper.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->9.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->As
far as addictions go, smoking cigarettes is probably the least harmful one that
I have.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->10.<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> </span><!--[endif]-->Friendships
will come and go. Relationships will start and end. People are born and then we
die. But I can always go to a gas station and buy a new pack of cigarettes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/3iEBtYm"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/3iEBtYm.jpg" height="334" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Source: <a href="http://www.reddit.com/r/Poetry/comments/1q93na/10_thoughts_on_why_i_smoke_cigarettes_oc/">http://www.reddit.com/r/Poetry/comments/1q93na/10_thoughts_on_why_i_smoke_cigarettes_oc/</a><o:p></o:p></i><br />
<br />
<br />
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Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-79487820061309632022015-06-02T22:05:00.004-07:002015-06-02T22:05:59.193-07:00How to Tap your Way out of the Nicotine Addiction? <br />
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<b>Why it is so hard to quit?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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The health
consequences and medical costs associated with cigarette smoking are well
established and research indicates increased morbidity and mortality from
cardiovascular diseases, various forms of cancer, and chronic obstructive lung
diseases in those who smoke. Despite knowledge of these adverse risks and
consequences, tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable mortality in
the United States.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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So, if it is so
clear tobacco smoking is dangerous, why we do not see massive quitting? That is
so, in spite of the huge and expensive efforts to get the smokers scared and make
the tobacco smoking expensive and less socially acceptable<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The immediate
negative consequences of quitting cited by smokers include increased stress,
restlessness, irritability, anxiety, negative affect and cravings. A myriad of
strategies exist to help prepare smokers to quit and avoid relapse:
pharmacological products, motivational enhancement therapies, brief advice
therapy, alternative counseling modes (telephone, Internet and computer),
self-help, and individually tailored treatments. However, a recent Cochrane
review indicated that insufficient evidence exists to support the use of any
specific behavioral intervention for helping smokers who have successfully quit
for a short time to avoid relapse. Most interventions aimed at preventing
relapse typically focus on teaching new skills to cope with temptations.
However, these do not appear very effective or helpful in the long-term. The
review recommended focusing on supporting initial cessation attempts and
reducing associated physical and psychological negative consequences.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/WFf2Y7p"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/WFf2Y7p.jpg" height="269" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<b>EFT - a different approach?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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The most difficult
consequences of quitting cited by smokers include the craving urge and
situational triggers, such as smoking while drinking coffee and lighting up
when others light up. Strategies, which specifically neutralize these issues,
may be of great benefit. Approaches, which target both the cognitive (negative
thoughts) and somatic systems (cravings), are showing promise in this field.
Generally termed ‘energy psychology’ approaches, these self-help processes are
based on traditional exposure and response-prevention strategies belonging to
the cognitive therapies, and non-Western techniques such as tapping on acupressure
points. The most widely used energy psychology modality is Emotional Freedom
techniques (EFT).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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EFT utilizes the
physical somatic activity of tapping with two fingers on acupressure points on
the face and body, while focusing cognitions on the psychological problem. This
type of exposure therapy appears to activate the amygdala, a part of the brain
linked to memory storage, threat responses such as flight, flight or freeze behaviors,
and emotions such as pleasure, anger and fear. Researchers at Harvard Medical
School, in a 10-year research program investigating the effects and mechanisms
of stimulating specific acupressure points for trauma related issues, found
that rubbing, tapping or holding pressure on these points sent de-activating
signals to the amygdala. By repeating
the techniques while continuing to focus the mind on the psychological problem,
the amygdala reduces its stress response, the hippocampus re-records the
problem/memory without the physiological anxiety symptoms, and the neural
pathways initially involved amend themselves so future confrontations with the
problem or memory no longer cause distress.<o:p></o:p></div>
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EFT was founded by
Gary Craig, a Stanford Engineer, Ordained Minister and Personal Performance
Coach. EFT is simply emotional acupuncture without the needles. Our bodies are
made up of subtle energies. When negative emotions are present, it is simply a
disruption of the bodies energy system. With EFT you stimulate certain meridian
points by tapping on them, and it tends to balance the energy flow in our body.
EFT is simple to learn, gentle and easy to use, can be used anywhere, only take
minutes, and has such great results.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/IZdnTqa"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/IZdnTqa.png" height="259" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Targeting Common Concerns<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Despite the known
benefits of smoking cessation, people continue to have difficulty quitting
their smoking habit. What stands in their way are vital issues that EFT can
address. <o:p></o:p></div>
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1. Cigarettes as
Tranquilizers<o:p></o:p></div>
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Clients wishing to
quit smoking admit that they use cigarettes to avoid, numb or suppress a
variety of feelings that are uncomfortable. Some people use cigarettes to relax
and calm themselves, some use them for an energy boost, while still others use
them to feel safe or protected. When using EFT for smoking cessation,
investigating and addressing any underlying emotions that cause the person to
reach for cigarettes is essential. EFT can be aimed at any uncomfortable and unwanted
feelings (physical or emotional) or thoughts (imagination, memories, or
beliefs) including loneliness, emptiness, rejection, anger, fear, and
unworthiness. Once these underlying emotions are detected and treated with EFT,
a person’s cravings to smoke and numb or distract from these feelings is
reduced or eliminated.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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2. Withdrawal
Symptoms<o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the biggest
fears clients share before beginning a quit smoking treatment is their fear of
painful or uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms; often based on prior failed
efforts at quitting that they experienced themselves or observed in others.
Frequently it is more helpful to interpret withdrawal symptoms as the body’s
way of expressing physical or emotional anxiety
about “giving up” the drugs and chemicals in cigarettes. The body
literally craves the drugs and nicotine, and war stories from friends who have
gone “cold turkey” abound. EFT can be used for each specific symptom as well as
for the fear of the future and what withdrawal may feel like.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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3. Favorite Times
of Day to Smoke<o:p></o:p></div>
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When people quit on
their own, they can fail to acknowledge the intensity of physical and mental
associations they have with cigarettes. These associations are so powerful that
they can lead a person to sabotage and fail as early as the first few days of
quitting. Classic associations that must be addressed and treated are (a)
smoking while on the telephone, (b) smoking while in the car, (c) smoking after
a meal, (d) smoking during stressful times,
(e) smoking before going to bed or after sexual intercourse, (f.)
smoking in social situations and (g) smoking with a favorite drink such as
coffee or beer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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All of these
emotional links can be eliminated with EFT while stress in general is being
neutralized. Ex-smokers feel quite confident that they can handle formerly
difficult scenarios or times of day after learning the EFT procedure.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/lKG74J2"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/lKG74J2.jpg" height="266" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Practical Approach<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Here are the EFT basic steps to Stop Smoking:<o:p></o:p></div>
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1. Write down all doubts, triggers, emotions, obstacles, and
concerns you have about quitting smoking? (<i>I
doubt that I can quit smoking or quitting smoking is too stressful</i>)<o:p></o:p></div>
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2. Evaluate the intensity level of each issue or emotion on
a 1 to 10 scale (10 being the most). (Doubt - 8, Stress - 7)<o:p></o:p></div>
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3. Set up the affirmation and reminder phrase
starting with the most intense issue first. (<i>Affirmation - Even though I doubt I can quit smoking, I deeply and
completely accept myself, or Even though I think quitting smoking will be too
stressful, I deeply and completely accept myself).</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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4. Begin tapping lightly on the following meridian points on
one side of your body using your index finger and middle finger with either
hand, as you speak the phrases aloud. <o:p></o:p></div>
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* Karate chop (KC) - Side of the hand below the pinky finger
at the center of the fleshy part of your hand that you would use to karate
chop.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"Even though I
doubt I can quit smoking, I deeply and completely accept myself." (Repeat
3 times).<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Eye brow (EB) - Near the bridge of your nose just to the
side where the eyebrow begins. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>“My doubts about
quitting smoking”<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Side of the eye <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"I doubt I can
quit smoking"<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Below the eye (UE) - If you were looking straight ahead,
about an inch directly below your pupil on the bone at the bottom of your eye
socket.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"My doubts about
quitting smoking"<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Under the nose (UN) - Just under your nose about at the
halfway point between your nose and upper lip.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"Doubt I can quit
smoking"<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Middle of the chin (CH) - The middle of your chin under
your lower lip in the indention.<o:p></o:p></div>
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"<i>All the other
things I have tried did not work"</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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* Under the collarbone (CB) - Just below your collarbone to
the side of your sternum in the indention (where the clavicle, sternum and
first rib meet).<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"I really just
doubt I can quit smoking"<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Under the armpit <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"My doubts about
quitting smoking"<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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* Top of the head (TH) - At the very top or crown of your
head.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>"Doubt I can quit
smoking"<o:p></o:p></i><br />
<i><br /></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://imgur.com/XbbFjgH"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/XbbFjgH.gif" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="352" /></a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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5. Take a deep breath.<o:p></o:p></div>
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6. Re-evaluate the intensity level of the issue using the 1
to 10 scale.<o:p></o:p></div>
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7. Tap a second round. You may continue tapping as many
rounds as you need to reduce the intensity level of the issue below a 3.<o:p></o:p></div>
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8. Move onto the next emotion or issue starting with the
Evaluation #2.<o:p></o:p></div>
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9. Once you have removed all of your doubts, fears,
concerns, and obstacles, you are ready to quit smoking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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10. For the first few weeks, use EFT at least three times
each day to deal with any emotions, or issues that come up.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/VlPjz1u"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/VlPjz1u.jpg" height="400" title="source: imgur.com" width="266" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Video Presentation<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Well, even with the instructions easy and straightforward to
understand, it is hard to believe they can actually work, especially for the
hard-core smokers who have long history of the quitting failure. Therefore, the
first and the most important recommendation is even simpler than that – find a
professional certified therapist and try it first as supervised and guided
session. As soon as you will gain trust in the technique and will see practical
advantages, you might be switching to the self-application approach, which will
save you money and allow applying it whenever you need and wherever you want.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here is the video presentation, which will help you to understand
the approaches and techniques:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zVyEr1W_XPs" width="420"></iframe><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Sources and Additional
Information:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.efttappingtraining.com/eft-research-paper/quitting-smoking-how-to-use-emotional-freedom-techniques/">http://www.efttappingtraining.com/eft-research-paper/quitting-smoking-how-to-use-emotional-freedom-techniques/</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://tappingsessions.com/">http://tappingsessions.com/</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/How_to_Stop_Smoking_Using_EFT_Emotional_Freedom_Technique.html">http://www.selfgrowth.com/articles/How_to_Stop_Smoking_Using_EFT_Emotional_Freedom_Technique.html</a></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.emofree.com/eft/tapping/smoking-addiction.html">http://www.emofree.com/eft/tapping/smoking-addiction.html</a><o:p></o:p></i><br />
<br />
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Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-82970850228359379172015-04-07T22:56:00.000-07:002015-04-07T22:56:15.833-07:00Did your Doctor Encourage You to Smoke Cigarettes?<br />
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People who remember when tobacco advertising was a
prominent part of the media landscape — and others who recall what they learned
in Marketing 101 — probably recollect that actors like Barbara Stanwyck and
athletes like Mickey Mantle routinely endorsed cigarettes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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From the 1920s into the 1950s, cigarette ads featured
endorsers as varied as babies, Mickey Mantle, doctors and even Santa Claus. But,
how about doctors and other medical professionals, proclaiming the merits of
various cigarette brands? Or politicians? What about cartoon characters in
cigarette ads? Or children? <span lang="RU">Babies?
Even Santa Claus?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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In this post, we are going to present some vintage ads of
doctors endorsing tobacco smoking. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/uslqyyh"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/uslqyyh.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="498" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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The serial ads “More Doctors Smoke Camels” (1946 – 1950)
promote doctors smoking cigarettes and get Camel ahead of other brands in the
marketing competition.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/qm1fFIc"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/qm1fFIc.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="519" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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One common technique used by the tobacco industry to
reassure a worried public was to incorporate images of physicians in their ads.
The none-too-subtle message was that if the doctor, with all of his expertise,
chose to smoke a particular brand, then it must be safe. Unlike with celebrity
and athlete endorsers, the doctors depicted were never specific individuals,
because physicians who engaged in advertising would risk losing their license.
(It was contrary to accepted medical ethics at the time for doctors to
advertise.) Instead, the images always presented an idealized physician - wise,
noble, and caring - who enthusiastically partook of the smoking habit. All of
the "doctors" in these ads came out of central casting from among
actors dressed up to look like doctors. Little protest was heard from the
medical community or organized medicine, perhaps because the images showed the
profession in a highly favorable light. This genre of ads regularly appeared in
medical journals such as the Journal of the American Medical Association, an
organization, which for decades collaborated closely with the industry. The big
push to document health hazards also did not arrive until later.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/FUeqmdY"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/FUeqmdY.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="460" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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The ads in this particular theme are all from a single R.
J. Reynolds campaign, which ran from 1940 to 1949 and claimed "More
Doctors smoke Camels." In the majority of these advertisements, the
"More Doctors" campaign slogan was included alongside other popular
Camel campaigns such as "T-Zone ('T for Throat, T for Taste'),"
"More people are smoking Camels than ever before," and
"Experience is the Best Teacher." In this way, Camel was able to
maintain consistency across its advertisements.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/xbNsOd0"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/xbNsOd0.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="507" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Within the "More Doctors" campaign, a story can
be told through a series of advertisements. The story documents a young boy's
journey following in his father's footsteps into the field of medicine. In the
first ad of this series, an obstetrician tells his little boy, "Now Daddy
has to go to another 'birthday party,' son" as he leaves his son's party
to deliver a baby. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/PJ2APRe"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/PJ2APRe.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="491" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Next, a doctor tells his grown-up boy, "It's all up
to you, son," as the young man decides whether or not to follow a career
in medicine. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/5ketFfx"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/5ketFfx.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="502" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Then, the young medical student, class of '46, is joined
by his father, class of '06 during a lecture. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://imgur.com/BDjYEX7"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/BDjYEX7.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="500" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Later, the young man is an "interne," not quite
on his own yet. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/hBZb26N"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/hBZb26N.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="485" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Finally, he is seen opening up his very own private
practice in the company of his adoring wife. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/FEo8oYJ"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/FEo8oYJ.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="479" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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This storyline, though not explicit, works to further
portray the doctor as a family man and a determined, committed,
self-sacrificing individual.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/QKcgim9"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/QKcgim9.jpg" height="640" title="source: imgur.com" width="495" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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In an attempt to substantiate the "More
Doctors" claim, R.J. Reynolds paid for surveys to be conducted during
medical conventions using two survey methods: Doctors were gifted free packs of
Camel cigarettes at tobacco company booths and them upon exiting the exhibit
hall, were then immediately asked to indicate their favorite brand or were
asked which cigarette they carried in their pocket.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Sources and
Additional Information:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://content.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1848212_1777633,00.html">http://content.time.com/time/photogallery/0,29307,1848212_1777633,00.html</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/07/business/media/07adco.html?_r=0">http://www.nytimes.com/2008/10/07/business/media/07adco.html?_r=0</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20307049,00.html">http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,20307049,00.html</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://tobacco.stanford.edu/tobacco_main/subtheme.php?token=fm_mt001.php">http://tobacco.stanford.edu/tobacco_main/subtheme.php?token=fm_mt001.php</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<br />
<br />
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<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-27468174539454732172015-03-10T22:34:00.002-07:002015-03-10T22:34:38.135-07:00How to Overpower your Smoking Addiction with Yoga?<br />
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<i>Yoga is not a
miracle cure to quit smoking. The different aspects of yoga such as asanas,
pranayama, meditation, and breathing techniques definitely are the best
techniques for quitting ever invented or discovered by man. No other techniques
can challenge these well-designed comprehensive and integrated techniques to
quit smoking. Try it and bring the change in your life!<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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There are multiple reports from ex-smokers that yoga can
really play a vital role in quitting smoking progress. The best thing what yoga
does is it improves your damaged smoking health. It improves your lung capacity
and strength and ultimately it alleviates some of the dangerous effects of
smoking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>How yoga helps?<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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* Current strategies for smoking cessation are effective
but quitting can be tough. Appearance of nicotine withdrawal symptoms such as
irritability, anxiety, depression, headache and insomnia are difficult to
handle. Hence, most smokers meet failure and are not able to quit smoking
successfully. Quitting smoking is not one-day work but result of good planning,
focus approach and controlled mind. Yoga can help you overcome the hurdles you
are likely to face during a smoking cessation plan. According to American
Public Health Association, yoga based intervention with emphasis on meditation
with the help of a practitioner can manage emotional stress and cope with
withdrawal symptoms that arise after quitting smoking. Quitting smoking is
emotionally and physically challenging but yoga has a power to address both
these issues.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Yoga cultivates determination and willpower in a smoker
which are the primary strengths needed to quit smoking. And, no many other
techniques can work better in overcoming this biggest weakness of a smoker.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Many people smoke or start smoking due to psychological
and emotional problems. And yoga is the powerful technique which helps best in
overcoming these life taking traumas and maintaining psychological and
emotional balance in the body.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* It creates awareness to lead a healthy life and to
understand your own body. This awareness automatically let you know that your
body does not want these types of dangerous toxins. And the same awareness
brings a great change and improvement in your diet and lifestyle to quit smoking
as well as to improve your health.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Smoking has a harmful impact on your lungs and it is
functioning. However, regular practice of yoga takes care of your lungs health.
Yoga opens the lungs and improves their functioning capacity. Restoration of
lung health ultimately helps to improve cessation outcomes.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* As a regular smoker, your body is habituated to receive
doses of nicotine multiple times a day that lead to nicotine dependency. As you
stop smoking, your body notices some sort of reactions from the absence of
nicotine what is known as 'nicotine craving'. Dealing with tobacco craving is
the biggest challenge when you are trying to quit smoking. Yoga calms the mind,
control frequent mood swing, promote patience, increase an ability to listen to
your body and creates a greater sense of control. If strong tobacco craving
strike, deep breathing exercises and yoga help to deal with stress and urge to
smoke. <o:p></o:p></div>
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* Yoga helps quitting smoking without weight gain and any
other side effects. And not many other techniques can help in this regard.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Yoga Postures<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Let us look at a few yoga postures and pranayamas that
can help you on the way to quit smoking:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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1. Kapal Bhati pranayama (Skull Shining breathing
technique)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Improve blood circulation, energize nervous system,
rejuvenate brain cells and calm your mind by doing the Skull Shining breathing
technique. This pranayama also clears the nadis (subtle energy channels) and
helps resist the urge of smoking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/nrgaU81"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/nrgaU81.jpg" height="400" title="source: imgur.com" width="288" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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2. Nadi Shodhan pranayama (Alternate nostril breathing
technique)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Release accumulated stress, calm your mind, purify and
balance your naadis (subtle energy channels) with this pranayama. The Nadi
Shodhan pranayama also works therapeutically for many respiratory problems and
helps counter the side effects of your de-addiction.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/wj93scg"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/wj93scg.jpg" height="189" title="source: imgur.com" width="320" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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3. Bhujanagasana (Cobra pose)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Cobra pose expands your chest and improves blood
circulation. It reduces fatigue and is also very good for people with
respiratory ailments. This yoga posture helps relieve stress and minimizes the
urge of smoking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/yA8VOac"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/yA8VOac.jpg" height="280" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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4. Setu Bandhasana (Bridge pose)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Bridge pose opens up the lungs, thus improving the
flow of oxygen to the body. It also stretches various parts of the body, calms
the mind, reduces anxiety, depression and stress and helps keep you away from
smoking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/89Cztja"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/89Cztja.jpg" height="267" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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5. Shishuasana (Child pose)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Child pose relaxes the body, calms down the nervous
system and helps relieve the body from stress.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/z4lYmxS"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/z4lYmxS.jpg" height="224" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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6. Trikonasana (Triangle pose)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Triangle pose stretches and strengthens various parts
of the body. This yoga posture helps strike a very effective physical and
mental equilibrium balance in the body. It also reduces anxiety and stress, and
helps you fight better the impulse to smoke.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/Wp0I9Tp"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/Wp0I9Tp.jpg" height="400" title="source: imgur.com" width="381" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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7. Sarvangasana (Shoulder stand)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Shoulder stand helps nourish the brain with more
blood and is effectively calms it. It also helps relieve stress and depression,
thus eliminating the urge of smoking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/60xVXwe"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/60xVXwe.png" height="400" title="source: imgur.com" width="304" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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8. Shavasana (Corpse pose)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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The Corpse pose should be practiced in the end as it lets
the body go into a deep, meditative state of rest and relieves stress. This
yoga posture rejuvenates the body and also reduces blood pressure and anxiety.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/rwq3JYY"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/rwq3JYY.jpg" height="273" title="source: imgur.com" width="400" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Useful Tips<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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There are some useful tips you should follow to achieve
your goal – become and stay ex-smoker:<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Start right away.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Request your family and friends to help you.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* List all your reasons for quitting and read them in
your weaker moments when you get the urge to smoke.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Think of all the benefits that you will get by quitting
the habit.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* Be persistent. Quitting takes time and requires
determination.<o:p></o:p></div>
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* In the end, remember that it is your body, you are
damaging by smoking and quitting is all about saving yourself. If you fail once,
do not consider it the end of the road, keep trying until you succeed. It is
only a habit and habits are in your control.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>Sources and
Additional Information:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://smoking.ygoy.com/quit-smoking-through-yoga/">http://smoking.ygoy.com/quit-smoking-through-yoga/</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.lexiyoga.com/yoga-for-smoking-cessation">http://www.lexiyoga.com/yoga-for-smoking-cessation</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i><a href="http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/quit-smoking-naturally-the-yoga-way-to-kick-the-butt/">http://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/quit-smoking-naturally-the-yoga-way-to-kick-the-butt/</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<i><a href="http://www.artofliving.org/yoga/health-and-wellness/overcome-smoking-with-yoga">http://www.artofliving.org/yoga/health-and-wellness/overcome-smoking-with-yoga</a><o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-50713572935811681042015-02-16T23:49:00.003-08:002015-02-16T23:49:25.894-08:00Darkened Cigarettes by Shane Downing<br />
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<b>Darkened
Cigarettes<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<i>by Shane Downing<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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Alone, in front of the expanse of black,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Light from the side but faith no more,<o:p></o:p></div>
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A moment to ponder before I crack,<o:p></o:p></div>
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And I reach for the pain without a sore.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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It eludes me, that devious and sly thought,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Leaving the notion of immense disease,<o:p></o:p></div>
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A smile - receiving the item that I sought,<o:p></o:p></div>
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But it's a lie - I'm brought to my knees.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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One, the sender, blinks and turns away,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Finding solace in personal deceptions,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Letting this helpless being cry and stray,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Upon the brink of futile conceptions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Once - just maybe - there had been the rose,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Impish grins shining to respond in aluminum,<o:p></o:p></div>
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But the heart - it feels what the mind knows,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sensing pain in edifices and a small crumb.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Falling, now, with no signs of stopping known,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Occasional hints with the facade of light to see,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Snapping and breaking every single bone,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Yet one would see an untouched body.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Light - the purifying source of all knowledge and lies,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Those Mundane objects re-attaching mortal debts,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here - no, perhaps there, light returns and deeply sighs,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Streaming the curling smoke of darkened cigarettes.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://imgur.com/ri6votA"><img src="http://i.imgur.com/ri6votA.jpg" title="source: imgur.com" /></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Author’s notes:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>I wrote this poem a
few days ago in response to my feelings on sorrow. Having slacked into
depression, I oddly felt motivation to write it down. It's about sadness, and
how it seems to affect and alter reality. The poem goes through the motions of
someone's first contact with a specific sorrow. Then, as it progresses through
the setting, it brings the reader (and the narrator) back to harsh reality. The
cigarettes (and the smoke) are symbolic of a memory.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Source: <a href="http://www.netpoets.com/poems/depress/0455003.htm">http://www.netpoets.com/poems/depress/0455003.htm</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7043071441694147987.post-81574859826768844982015-01-26T23:02:00.003-08:002023-06-07T20:58:31.440-07:00The Perfect Cigarette Is Happening Tonight<br />
<h2>
The Perfect Cigarette Is Happening Tonight</h2>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Author: Julianna Denmark</i><o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The perfect cigarette is happening tonight,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
So decadent, so forbidden, so succulent,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Taking my breath away with each glowing cherry.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
There's something phallic about this sexy moment:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pulling on the filter tip with my juicy lips,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Letting the creamy smoke flow, taking it all in,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Deep into my darkened lungs. It's been there before<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Many, many times when I've needed a release<o:p></o:p></div>
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Akin to the dancing snap inhale in my mouth.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I can feel it beckon me to ride the night air<o:p></o:p></div>
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As I stand here, staring off into the distance,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Waiting to exhale my sweet sin, slowly, gently,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Upwards, where the stars command me for another.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I gladly oblige; after all, it's my pleasure<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
To suck in another deep drag, and another,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Again and again until the nicotine rush<o:p></o:p></div>
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Consumes me, kills me, brings me to life. The danger!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Yes, the danger! At this moment, I hardly care.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
When this cigarette is history, I'll light up more,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Reducing each long tobacco tube to ashes<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Until I've found my nirvana for the moment,<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
That forbidden moment when my lungs scream, "Yes,
more!"<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
I'll keep on until I've found the magic potion.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Make no mistake -- I'll do what's wrong till it feels
right.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
The perfect cigarette is happening tonight.</div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>Author Notes:<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<i>The intoxication,
the anticipation -- the perfect cigarette is the death I live for.<o:p></o:p></i></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
Source: <a href="http://allpoetry.com/poem/11618340-The-Perfect-Cigarette-Is-Happening-Tonight-by-Julianna-Denmark">http://allpoetry.com/poem/11618340-The-Perfect-Cigarette-Is-Happening-Tonight-by-Julianna-Denmark</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<br /></div>
Michael Pekkerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00719697048984156330noreply@blogger.com0