• A healthier complexion. More oxygen-laden blood reaches the skin surface, banishing that worn, drawn, grey look.

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  A younger appearance. Stopping smoking slows the skin-ageing process, leading to fewer wrinkles.
• Feeling and smelling fresher now that the odour of smoke isn’t constantly clinging to your hair and clothes. You’ll also have better-smelling breath.
• Whiter teeth. Ask your dentist about removing the surface discolouration from smoking. Your teeth will now have a much better chance of staying white, which makes you look younger and healthier.
• Less stress. Many ex-smokers rate themselves as generally less 'stressed'. Your heart and anxiety levels are no longer artificially raised by nicotine, and you’re no longer an addict. You’re also a lot less worried about your health.
• More free time. You no longer have to waste time (and energy) smoking cigarettes, buying cigarettes, mislaying, looking for and generally fretting about cigarettes.
• More energy and an enhanced sense of well-being. Your higher energy levels allow you to work more efficiently and enjoy your leisure time more.
• More money. If you previously smoked 20 cigarettes a day, you are now about R6 500 a year richer.
• Less guilt. You will stop feeling like a social pariah, and won't have to stand outside in freezing or boiling weather. Non- and ex-smokers will be impressed; continuing smokers will be envious (even if they won’t admit it).
• Being a good role model to those younger than you.
• A deep sense of satisfaction and accomplishment in knowing that you’ve vanquished the demon tobacco and taken back control of your life.

(Olivia Rose-Innes, Health24, February 2007)

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