Body reaction after quitting smoking

 Smoking is addictive. While it may have not taken long to become addicted to smoking, it takes time and effort to stop. That’s because tobacco products contain nicotine, a naturally occurring substance that can be as addictive as heroin or cocaine. Nicotine withdrawal causes uncomfortable physical and mental symptoms that last several weeks.

While this may seem discouraging, there’s good news. Withdrawal symptoms improve every day you stay tobacco-free. Not only that, but quitting smoking reduces your risk for several fatal conditions and diseases the longer you stick to it. As a general timeline:

• 20 minutes after quitting, your heart rate drops
• 12 hours after quitting, carbon monoxide levels in the body reduce and vital organs receive more oxygen
• 1 year after quitting, your risk of heart attack is reduced
• 2–5 years after quitting, your risk of stroke may be no greater than that of a nonsmoker
• 5 years after quitting, your risk of mouth, throat, bladder and esophagus cancers is reduced by half
• 10 years after quitting, your risk of death from lung cancer is reduced by half

The journey isn’t easy, but worth taking. Don’t wait until the perfect time to quit—that perfect time is now!

What typically happens after one quits smoking

Immediate Health Benefits: Within hours of quitting, your body begins to repair itself. Carbon monoxide levels in the blood drop, allowing oxygen levels to return to normal, leading to improved circulation and lung function.

Decreased Risk of Diseases: Over time, the risk of developing smoking-related diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory illnesses decreases significantly compared to continuing smokers.

Improved Respiratory Function: Lung function improves, leading to reduced coughing and shortness of breath. The cilia in the lungs start to regrow, which helps clear mucus and debris, further improving lung function and reducing the risk of infections.

Enhanced Sense of Taste and Smell: Within days to weeks of quitting smoking, your sense of taste and smell begin to return. Food may taste better, and you may notice scents more vividly than when you were smoking.

Increased Energy Levels: Quitting smoking often leads to increased energy levels as your body becomes better oxygenated, and your circulation improves. This can result in improved stamina and physical performance.

Better Cardiovascular Health: Within weeks to months, your risk of heart attack and stroke begins to decline. Blood pressure and heart rate may also start to normalize, reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Improved Skin Health: Smoking cessation can lead to improvements in skin health, including reduced wrinkles, better skin tone, and a healthier complexion. Blood flow to the skin improves, promoting faster healing and a more youthful appearance.

Financial Savings: Quitting smoking leads to significant financial savings over time. The money previously spent on cigarettes can be redirected towards other expenses or savings goals, providing a tangible reward for quitting.

Enhanced Mental Health: Many people experience improved mental health after quitting smoking. They may experience reduced feelings of anxiety and depression and an overall improved sense of well-being.

Long-Term Health Benefits: The longer you stay smoke-free, the greater the health benefits. Over time, your risk of developing smoking-related diseases continues to decline, and your overall life expectancy increases, allowing you to enjoy a longer, healthier life.

These points highlight the numerous positive changes that occur in the body and overall well-being after quitting smoking, providing strong motivation to stay smoke-free.

Ten points to help you start thinking about not smoking

Health Concerns: Consider the impact smoking has on your health. Reflect on the long-term consequences such as increased risk of cancer, heart disease, respiratory problems, and decreased life expectancy.

Financial Implications: Calculate how much money you spend on cigarettes annually. Recognize the financial strain smoking places on your budget and how those funds could be better allocated to other priorities or pleasures.

Family and Relationships: Think about how smoking affects your loved ones. Secondhand smoke can harm family members and friends. Consider how quitting could improve your relationships and set a positive example for those around you.

Quality of Life: Reflect on how smoking affects your daily life. Consider how it limits your physical activity, decreases your sense of taste and smell, and may contribute to feelings of lethargy or anxiety.

Future Goals: Consider your long-term goals and aspirations. Reflect on how smoking may hinder your ability to achieve these goals, whether they are related to career advancement, personal development, or family aspirations.

Social Impacts: Recognize how smoking affects your social life. Think about how it limits your options for socializing in smoke-free environments and may lead to feelings of isolation or exclusion.

Physical Fitness: Reflect on how smoking affects your physical fitness. Consider how quitting smoking could improve your stamina, lung capacity, and overall physical performance.

Personal Empowerment: Recognize the power you have to change your habits. Reflect on times when you successfully overcame challenges in the past and draw upon those experiences to fuel your motivation to quit smoking.

Support Systems: Identify people or resources that can support you in your journey to quit smoking. Surround yourself with individuals who encourage and motivate you to make positive changes.

Long-Term Benefits: Consider the long-term benefits of quitting smoking. Reflect on how your health, finances, relationships, and overall quality of life could significantly improve once you break free from the addiction.

Reflecting on these points can help you build motivation and commitment to quit smoking and lead a healthier, smoke-free life.

Nightlife in Lakshadweep

Being in a heavenly place like Lakshdweep, you may also wish to have a colorful nightlife. Unfortunately Lakshdweep doesn’t have too many places to experience a typical nightlife. But it has many sources and options that will add charm to your nightlife.

Though it doesn’t have the availability of pubs and alcohol in abundance you don't have to be totally disappointed as the island of Bangaram is the only island of Lakshdweep, where alcohol is not prohibited. Now if you are thinking of how to spend your night in Lakshdweep then don’t worry! Here is a list of things you can try being on the islands of Lakshdweep.

If you choose to be in a hotel that has sufficient guests staying in it then the hotel will definitely arrange for a barbeque. 

Folk dance performances will also be organized that will make your night exciting.

Instead of staying in the hotel, you can opt to spend your night at the beach, relaxing or listening to melodious tunes or just sleep peacefully. 

You can get the magnificent view of the glowing worms or Bioluminescent Plankton, if you are on a visit to Agatti Island. These are known as the brightest aquatic creatures. These creatures are a mix of algae and fungi with its chemical skin produces an attractive radiant glow. 

These unusual activities will keep you busy throughout the nights without making you feel the absence of any pub or lounge. It will really give you an ultimate experience in the less populated islands of Lakshdweep. 

The beautiful glowing beaches at Bangaram Islands in Lakshadweep

 

Bioluminescence at Its Beautiful Best at Bangaram Islands in Lakshadweep

There are times when nature exhibits such spectacular beauty that its takes our breaths away. Beaches are things of incredible beauty on their own and when the water glows it is utterly magical. There are very few beaches in India that exhibit bioluminescence and one of them is the Bangaram in Lakshadweep islands.

Bangaram is a tiny island in the shape of a tear drop that doesn't see too much crowd through the year. Filled with palm trees and stunning coasts, it is one serene beach getaway that everyone inevitably falls in love with.

Why does it glow in the dark

Bioluminescence is caused by phytoplankton and algae that inhabit some beaches on Bangaram. Aquatic animals such as the jellyfish get washed up to the edges of the water during high tide and glow like jewels during the nights. This bluish white glow makes for a spectacular view. It is also known as the milky sea phenomenon.

Lakshadweep Islands Travel Options 

Those who like water sports and adventure activities will have a great time here. Everything from sea swimming to deep sea fishing is possible. Out of 36 islands, only 10 are inhabited. Many islands can only be visited during the day to explore their flora and fauna. The Pitti island is completely converted into a bird sanctuary. Terns are found in plenty there. So are turtles. The islands of Lakshadweep are rich in wildlife and eco-tourism is fast catching up. Bird watching and turtle walking are something you can do as a pastime here. 

 In the islands tourists can opt for adventure sports and water sports. You can also go for boating, kayaking and deep sea fishing. Water scooters and jet skis are available on rent. In boating, there are pedal boats, kayaks and glass-bottom ones you can take. On a boat ride you can view small corals under the shallow blue waters, fish that swim close to your boat, and many birds, too. There are agencies that offer equipment and crew on hire. A walk around the villages is refreshing and you can meet the locals and interact with them. 

Travel by Air 

Agatti Island 

Rs 27,500 for 2 adults - 3 nights 4 days including airport transfer, 

Agatti Island sightseeing, entry permit and AC cottage accommodation with all meals. 

Bangaram Island 

Rs 68,040 for two adults - 3 nights 4 days including entry permit, airport transfer, inter-island boat transfer and AC accommodation with all meals. 

Travel by Sea

Samudram Cruise Package 

Kavaratti- Kalpeni- Minicoy 

• Rs 39,375/person for 4 Nights/5 Days. 

• Cruise starts from Cochin, Kerala 

• Visit Kavaratti, Kalpeni and Minicoy Islands. 

• First class AC cabin accommodation. 

• All 3 time meals [breakfast lunch and dinner] morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• Water sports: Kayaking Snorkeling and Glass bottom boat ride. 

• Entry permit and heritage fee. 

• All Government taxes included 

• On board MV 

Kavaratti Silver Sand Package 

Kalpeni (2 Nights - 3 Days) 

• Rs 7,200/person for 2 Nights/3 Days. 

• Entry Permit. • Welcome drink at the island. 

• Beypore/Manglore- Kalpeni- Beypore/Manglore silver class ticket. 

• Night stay on board 

• All 3 time meals [breakfast Lunch and Dinner] morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• Documentation Charges. 

• Kalpeni Island Sightseeing. 

• Our personal assistance on the ship and Island. 

Kavaratti Island Resort 

Kavaratti (2 Nights - 3 Days) 

• Rs 15,100/person for 2 Nights/3 Days. 

• Entry Permit. • Welcome drinks at resort. 

• Pickup and drop at Agatti and Kavaratti. 

• Agatti-Kavaratti-Agatti speed boat charges. 

• Accommodation at Kavaratti Beach Resort. 

• All 3 time meals morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• All the Government taxes and Documentation Charges 

• Our personal assistance. 

Bangaram Island Resort 

Bangaram (2 Nights - 3 Days) 

• Price Starting From Rs.25,410* 

• Entry Permit and Heritage fee. 

• Airport pickup and drop at Agatti. 

• Welcome drink at the island. 

• Agatti–Bangaram-Agatti boat charges. 

• Accommodation in AC Beach Cottage. 

• All 3 time meals [breakfast, Lunch and Dinner] morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• All the Government taxes applicable on the price. • Our personal assistance on the Island is available. 

Thinnakara Tent Resort 

Thinnakara (2 Nights - 3 Days) 

• Price Starting From Rs 22,260* 

• Kochi Lakshadweep Kochi Ticket( Cabin) 

• Welcome drink at the island. 

• All 3 time meals [breakfast Lunch and Dinner] morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• All 3 island sightseeing. 

• Kayaking, Snorkeling 

• Glass bottom boat ride 

• Compliment T shirt 

• Our personal assistance on the ship and Island. 

Honeymoon at Lakshadweep 

Maliku (3 Nights - 4 Days) 

• Price Starting From Rs 59,000* 

• Entry Permit 

• Welcome drinks. 

• Airport Transfers at Agatti Airport 

• Ac Deluxe Accommodation at Agatti 

• Ac Deluxe beach cottage at Bangaram 

• All 3 time meals morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• Non AC beach tent Accommodation at Thinnakara 

• Agatti Bangaram boat transfer 

• Our personal assistance on the ship and Island. 

Coral Island Package 

Agatti island (2 Nights - 3 Days) ,

• Price Starting From Rs 13,500* 

• Entry Permit. 

• Welcome drinks. 

• Pickup and drop at Agatti. 

• AC Deluxe Beach Accommodation at Agatti. 

• All 3 time meals [breakfast Lunch and Dinner] morning and evening tea or coffee. 

• All the taxes. • Agatti island Sightseeing. 

• Compliment kayaking 1 time. 

• Documentation Charges. 

Kadmat Island Package 

Kadmat (4 Nights - 5 Days) 

• Price Starting From Rs 15,875* 

• Entry Permit and Heritage fee. 

• Welcome drinks. • Airport pickup and drop at Agatti. 

• Agatti-Kadmath-Agatti speed boat charges. 

• Accommodation at Kadmath Beach Resort. 

• All 3 time meals [breakfast Lunch and Dinner] 

 • Taxes & Documentation Charge. 

• Personal assistance on the ship & Island. 

Other options

Cordelia Cruises are also available for Lakshadweep from Mumbai, Goa with hopping options.

Check-list for visiting Lakshadweep Islands

Certainly! Before traveling to the Lakshadweep Islands in India, it's important to gather relevant information to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here's a comprehensive list of information you will find useful: 1. Entry Requirements: • Check visa requirements for traveling to India. • Permits are required to visit Lakshadweep, so ensure you have the necessary permissions. 2. Best Time to Visit: • The islands have a tropical climate, so consider the weather when planning your trip. • November to March is generally considered the best time to visit due to milder temperatures. 3. Transportation: • Find information on how to reach Lakshadweep. Flights and ships are the primary modes of transportation. • Agatti Airport is the main entry point, and there are ship services from Kochi. 4. Accommodation: • Research and book accommodation in advance, as options may be limited. • Agatti, Bangaram, and Kavaratti are some of the islands with tourist accommodations. 5. Local Transportation: • Know about transportation options on the islands, such as ferries or boats between islands. • Some islands may be accessible only by boat or helicopter. 6. Island Hopping: • If you plan to visit multiple islands, understand the inter-island transportation system. 7. Permits and Regulations: • Obtain the necessary permits to enter and stay in Lakshadweep. • Follow local regulations to respect the environment and culture. 8. Activities and Attractions: • Research the activities and attractions available on different islands. • Consider water sports, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the unique marine life. 9. Health and Safety: • Check if any vaccinations or health precautions are recommended. • Be aware of emergency services and healthcare facilities on the islands. 10. Currency and Payment: • Know about the local currency and ensure you have enough cash. • Some places may not accept cards, so be prepared with sufficient local currency. 11. Local Culture and Customs: • Learn about the local customs and traditions to show respect. • Dress modestly, especially when outside tourist areas. 12. Language: • The primary language is Malayalam, but English and Hindi are also widely understood. 13. Communication: • Understand the availability of mobile network coverage and internet services on the islands. 14. Pack Accordingly: • Pack appropriate clothing, especially considering the warm and humid climate. • Sunscreen, hats, and comfortable footwear are essential. 15. Environmental Considerations: • Be mindful of the fragile ecosystem and follow eco-friendly practices. • Respect coral reefs and marine life during water activities. 16. Emergency Contacts: • Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, medical services, and your country's embassy or consulate. 17. Travel Insurance: • Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and trip cancellations. 18. Weather Updates: • Monitor weather conditions, especially during the monsoon season. By gathering this information, you'll be well-prepared for your trip to the beautiful Lakshadweep Islands.

Minicoy Islands

Minicoy The Minicoy Island is the southern-most island of Lakshadweep, situated at a distance of 398 km (215 nautical miles) south-west of Kochi between 8° 15′ and 8° 20′ N latitude and 73° 01′ and 73° OS’ E longitude, having an area of 4.80 sq km. This island lies near the 9 0 Channel, which is one of the busiest shipping routes and is about 130 km from the northern-most island of Maldives. It has a very large lagoon on the western side, measuring about 6 km across the two entrances, one on the west and the other on the northern-most point. The lagoon area is 30.60 sq km. The island is about 2 m above the mean sea level on the western side and about 3 to 4 m on the eastern side, and is 11 km long. The Light house of the island is one of the oldest and was constructed in 1885. You will be taken to the villages, tuna canning factory, the light house and for a long drive through dense coconut groves and winding village roads. The beaches have bathing huts and change rooms; so swim and beach walk , Pedal boat, Kayak and Sail . We provide these on hire. Three tourist cottages and one 20 bedded tourist home have been constructed for the staying tourists. This island is part of Coral Reef and Swaying Palm packages . Culture It is the second largest and southern most island in Lakshadweep, crescent shaped and has one of the largest lagoons. Viringli is the small islet that you see on the south. Minicoy is set apart from the Northern group of islands by its culture. The closest land to Minicoy is Thuraakunu Island in the Republic of the Maldives about 100 km to the south across the Vangaaru Channel. The main attraction of the island is its carefully arranged villages, known as ‘Avah’. Each Avah has its own internal organization headed by a Moopan, around which the life of the community rests. Every Village has its own village house. In total there are 10 villages in the island, and are named as Bada, Aoumagu, Boduathiri, Rammedu, Sedivalu, Aloodi, Funhilol, Kudehi, Falessery and Kendiparty (from south to north). Each village is headed by a Bodukaka and a Bodudatha assisted by a 2nd Bodukaka and a 2nd bodudatha. First Bodukaka looks after the internal matters of the village and 2nd Bodukaka the external affairs. Village house is the place where ‘Baemedu’ (Assemblage of villagers) is held. As source of income a village has fishing boats, country crafts and coconut trees. Common feasts are conducted at the village house during the celebrations of Eid and other festive occasions. The houses, which stand in their own private enclosures, are arranged in streets. They are kept neat and tidy and reflect the urge of the people for order and colour. All the houses have a swing cot made of wood which is beautifully furnished and painted in different hues. The inhabitants love a profusion of colors, be it on the beautifully engraved tabletops that decorate their houses or on fishing boats or racing dhonis. One of the handicrafts of the people is boat modeling which is a piece of art painted in different colours. The folk dances of Minicoy are ‘Lava’, Thaara’, ‘Dandi’, ‘Fuli’ and ‘Bandiya’. Colourful and elegant race boat known as ‘Jahadhoni’ are used for race, reception of dignitaries and for annual picnic to Viringili/Raggan. Language The language spoken are Hindi,English,Malayalam and Mahal. Minicoy being the only people in India speaking Mahal as a linguistic minority. Climate The climate of Minicoy is similar to the climatic conditions of Kerala. March to May is the hottest period of the year. The temperature ranges from 25oC to 35oC and humidity ranging from 70 -76 per cent for most of the year. The average rainfall received is 1600 mm a year. Monsoon prevails here from 15th May to 15th September. The monsoon period raises temperature to the mercury level between 27- 30 degrees. During the monsoon time, boats are not allowed outside the lagoon because of the violent sea. The presence of the reef maintains calm at the lagoon. Minicoy is, in a sense, isolated from the main group of islands and lies about 200 kms south of the northern group. It is 10.6 kms long and is the second largest island after Andrott. Minicoy has one of the largest lagoons with a small uninhabited islet Viringili on its southern side. Minicoy is distinct from the northern group of islands in its culture, language dress etc. It has a cluster of 11 villages, which are called “Ava’h” each presided over by an elected village elder called Bodukaka. Traditionally all powers to manage village affairs are vested in him. Each village has a village house beautifully maintained and decorated. Minicoy is renowned for its tradition dance – the Lava performed on festive occasions. Colourful race boats called “Jahadhoni” are a feast to the eye of any tourist. A large number of men from this island are employed as seamen in ships all over the world. Mahl is the spoken language. Minicoy is an important center for tuna fishing and a tuna-canning factory on the island processes the catch. A 300-foot tall lighthouse built in 1885 by the British is a majestic landmark. The beaches have bathing huts with change rooms and facilities for water sports are available. 3 tourist cottages and one 20-bedded tourist home have been constructed for staying tourists. Visit to Minicoy is part of Coral Reef and Swaying Palm packages.

Bangaram Islands

A bewitchingly beautiful and breath taking island in Lakshadweep. BANGARAM is uninhabited. It is surrounded by a shallow lagoon enclosed by coral reef.It has been ranked among the best gateways of the world. Here the sun, sand and surf in harmony casting a spell on the visitor. It offers utmost privacy unpolluted comfort with crystal clear water. Sparkling coral reef and blue lagoon perform magic on the soul searching traveller. It’s a place where Hemingway would create a classic or a Van Gough would paint a masterpiece. And who knows the muse may inspire one to create too. A matchless sense of wellbeing takes over and one begins to discover the graceful fishes, porcupines, parrots, pufferfishes, hermit crabs and sea birds on the vast 120 acres of lush coconut groves in BANGARAM. There are numerous adventures like scuba diving, beach games, swimming, snorkelling and deep sea fishing. The resort has 60 bedded beach cottages with a multi cuisine restaurant serving myriad delicacies. A well-stocked bar is also available. AGATTI is the gate way to BANGARAM and is linked to Cochin for onward flights to metros. The climate of the island is warm round the year. Rainfall is limited and the temperature during the monsoon is 25-27° C. Bangaram is a tiny teardrop shaped island, which lies very close to Agatti and Kavaratti. The tourist resort on this island provides an amazing opportunity for guests to unwind from the pressures and tensions of modern life. Two small islands of Thinnakara and Parali also lie close to Bangaram enclosed by the same lagoon. During the night, phosphorescent plankton washed ashore on the coral sands impart a bluish glow to the beach, which is totally enchanting. Guests to this resort can either avail of the boat transfer or helicopter transfer from Agatti. Being the only uninhabited island resort in Lakshadweep it has got its own charm. An ideal destination for discerning exclusive tourists, Bangaram has carved its presence in the international tourist map.