This is most effective in the beginning of your recovery days, because replacing the craving with something significantly less harmful is an absolute win. Instead of a drink, grab a can of coke. Get an essential oil vape to use when you feel like smoking a joint. Find a way to substitute your craving in a healthier way.

Breathing exercises are powerful and can help provide you clarity as you try to push through the craving. Take deep, slow breaths, to help oxygenate your blood. This will activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which helps calm you down. It’s strictly science, that taking deep breaths will calm you down. Set a timer. Count at least 6 breaths a minute for at least 3 minutes. As long as you have a positive mindset, you’ll feel calmer and the urge will be less intense.

Naming your addiction, saying it outloud, is powerful. It takes the power away from your craving. Stop by a friends house, or give them a call, and tell them what you’re experiencing. This will not only help you distract yourself, but it will prevent you from keeping these feelings bottled up. Keeping these feeling to yourself isolates the power of the craving, and makes it harder to control.