I thought I'd post an update since I now made it to day 35. It seems by now that most of the physical side effects of quitting are gone. With the support of this group of people, I've made it through strong cravings, times of depression, irritability, feelings of loss, extreme boredom, gas and constipation -- all because of my dependence on that shit in the tin. Like I said though, I feel like I'm past most of that stuff, but that doesn't mean I'm going to let up my guard by any means. I realize the cravings show up out of nowhere for years into one's quit and you have to be prepared to deal with that.
Aside from the negatives of quitting, however, I've already noticed several positives that I wanted to bring up in order to encourage anyone who's just beginning their quit. The feeling of freedom is huge. I love how I can walk into a convenience store, stare at the racks of chew in disgust and walk out without having to buy one or two. So that's what it feels like to be a normal person...
I was a ninja dipper who had to hide it from my wife and kids, so the fact that I no longer have to plan in advance to make sure I have enough chew to last me through the next morning, or through the weekend, or through a trip has been an incredibly positive change.
I was able to reach into my wallet last night and hand my son some cash, I was never able to do that in the past without a sense of panic that I was going to need that cash to secretly buy my chew.
I've already saved a ton of money that can actually go toward something useful, like my children's college funds.
I feel better, healthier in a way I'm not really sure I can describe. I used to get upset stomachs which I no longer get. My breath is better and my teeth and gums feel better - I've replaced my chewing habit with a daily flossing habit. I'm saving so much time not having to go out on chew runs, or hide away while I had a dip. My erections are getting harder, lasting longer, and more frequent. I've been running and/or lifting weights almost daily.
Quitting this nasty addiction has given me motivation to quit other things and to pick up healthier habits. I quit alcohol and I also plan on cutting out sugar and then maybe caffeine. I'm drinking berry and spinach smoothies for breakfast and a green smoothie in the evenings.
All in all, these past 35 days have been life changing. I'm looking forward to seeing what other positives come out of this in the upcoming months and years.
Thanks everyone!
