According to a study from Kennesaw State University in Georgia, women smokers who were extremely critical about their appearance were 35 percent less likely to say they wanted to quit over the next year than those with a healthier outlook. The study author, Sean Stickney, Ph.D. said the reason may be that they were afraid of gaining weight when they stopped smoking. He suggests that if that’s one of the main concerns then talk to a physician or mental health expert. Besides the health risks of smoking, having a distorted view of the body leaves you vulnerable to depression.

Quitting smoking may be easier now that Bangkok instituted their smoking ban in restaurants and pubs. While the Bangkok Post reports that the ban will not be heavily enforced and bars will not be fined until June 1, many restaurants and pubs enforced the ban on February 11 and some have created smoking areas outside the dining area. Aside from making it easier to quit smoking as it’s not as easily combined with drinking, the government should make smoking a stigma, thereby smokers become social outcasts and what better way to get one to quit than by peer pressure. Create public health commercials and educate the public on the abject harm of smoking. As for gaining weight, a few pounds will not kill you as fast as smoking can and will. Alternatively, exercising can shed those extra pounds you gain when you quit smoking, leaving you with a better self image and keep depression at bay.

If you’re stressed out and don’t even have time for a manicure, you have to create a haven of tranquility in the places where you spend the most time. According to Lisa Earle McLeod, author of Finding Grace When You Can’t Even Find Clean Underwear, you need to find your peace wherever you’re at. For instance, in your car, pack a healthy snack to help ease the munchies while you’re stuck in traffic. In Bangkok, you can pick up fresh fruit from the vendors along almost every street. Walk toward any public transport or shopping center and you’re bound to run into vendors with juicy red melons, sweet mangos, and ripe pamelo. You can also ease your mind by listening to relaxing music or a motivational audiobook. Try classical music! In your home, you need to designate a “me space” in which you can relax for a few minutes without being reminded of chores, or complaining kids, or needy husbands. This may be your bathroom, the balcony, or even the kitchen. In your office, stock your desk area with cozy slippers or a mood boosting live plant. Try standing up and stretching your back, neck, and shoulders several times a day to get rid of pent-up tension.

Apply that to Bangkok and you need to either get a weekly massage from a reputable massage parlor or simply go nuts from the Bangkok hustle bustle of traffic and pollution. You can also find that exercising a few minutes a day will help you organize your thoughts and relieve a bit of chaos in your mind, not to mention burning a few calories for a healthier, happier you. If you don’t have time to exercise and in need of a stress reliever, try and leave Bangkok for a few days and enjoy the many glorious, white sandy beaches or national parks for some R&R time.