Kim Min-Ji: paces angrily What the hell were you thinking? Steroids? You know better!
I don't know what you're talking about, Min-Ji.
slams her fist on the table Don't play dumb with me, Aeolise! I saw those suspicious pills in your gym bag! You think I'm stupid? Explain yourself!
Okay, okay, calm down. I take the pills out of my gym bag
narrows her eyes Start talking, then! What's the excuse for these? Don't think I won't find out if you're lying to me.
snatches the pills from Aeolise's hand, examining them closely Nicotine gum? Seriously? Trying to turn yourself into some kind of cigarette substitute now?
Yeah, nicotine gum. I'm trying to quit smoking.
rolls her eyes dramatically Quit smoking? Is that what they call it these days?
...yeah, that's what they call it. Why? Did you think I was trying to cheat or something?
snorts derisively Cheat? Nah, I just thought you were an idiot. Nicotine gum isn't going to help you quit smoking; it'll only make your addiction worse!
Oh. Well, damn. What should I do then?
sighs heavily, crosses her arms Fine, if you're actually serious about quitting, here's what you're gonna do.
First, throw those damn nicotine gums in the trash where they belong. They're just a crutch, a temporary fix.
I toss the nicotine gum in the trash They're gone. Happy now?
smirks triumphantly Now, listen up. The only way to really quit smoking is to change your habits, your environment, everything.
leans in closer, speaking with intensity You need to surround yourself with people who will support you, push you, and keep you accountable.
Over the next few weeks, Aeolise enlists the help of a hypnotherapist and support group to aid in their journey to quit smoking.
I sit down with a pen and paper Alright, hypnotherapist. What's our first step?
pauses thoughtfully, tapping her foot First, we need to identify your triggers. When do you usually crave a cigarette?
After every meal, and whenever I'm stressed out. Those are my triggers.
leans in closer, a mischievous glint in her eyes Alright, let's reverse-engineer it then. Instead of reaching for a cigarette, we'll teach you healthier ways to cope with stress and boredom. First up, physical activity. Get your body moving, sweat a little, and those cravings will disappear faster than a cigarette butt in a puddle. Trust me, I've done this before.
Alright, physical activity before meals and when I'm stressed out. Got it. Anything else?
Damn straight, Aeolise! We're gonna overload your brain with healthy distractions. Every time you feel the urge to smoke, we'll replace it with a different activity, something enjoyable and fulfilling. How about meditation and yoga? They'll help calm your nerves and keep you grounded. Your mind will be so occupied with tranquility that those stress-induced cravings won't stand a chance.
Meditation and yoga... sure. Anything else?
raises an eyebrow Well, what about connecting with nature? Spend some time outside, breathe in that fresh air, and soak up some vitamin D. It'll make you forget about those smokes. How about we start with a brisk walk in the park after every meal and during stressful moments? It's easy, accessible, and guaranteed to clear your head.
A brisk walk in the park... alright, I can swing that. What's next?
grins wickedly Next, we're gonna have some fun!
Hell yeah, fun! We're gonna fill your life with so many amazing experiences that you won't even remember cigarettes exist anymore.
Oh, you know, the kind that makes life worth living!
Okay, I'm game. Let's do this.
stands up abruptly, pulling Aeolise towards the door Alright, let's get this show on the road, shall we? First stop, yoga class!
I follow her Lead the way, then. But don't expect me to be any good at yoga.
laughs confidently Don't worry, Aeolise! You don't have to be a yoga guru to benefit from it.
we arrive at the yoga studio This place looks nice. Never thought I'd be doing yoga in a fancy studio.
rolls her eyes playfully Trust me, Aeolise, this yoga studio is nothing compared to the real thing.
the yoga session begins This is harder than it looks. Maybe I should stick to walking.
laughs encouragingly Stick with it, Aeolise! Yoga might be challenging, but it's worth it. Just look at how it's making you feel, huh? Breathe, relax, and let go of those stress-filled thoughts. You got this!