Cigarettes are a leading contributor to preventable disease and deaths in the United States. Smoking accounts for one in five American deaths. Of those who smoke, 2/3 of them would like to quit, but only about 6% of them achieve that goal annually.
In studies when compared with traditional interventional programs, meditation has been shown to increase abstinence rates. In one study, volunteers who were involved in an integrative mind-body meditation program saw a 60% reduction in smoking.
Brain scans of the participants were taken before and after. Researchers found the areas of the brain related to self-control showed increased activity in meditators.
Researchers believe this method of smoking reduction works by helping smokers to manage cravings as well as decreased their negative effect. This, in turn, decreases drug-seeking behavior and the likelihood of relapse.
The above video from Manipal Hospital explains the benefits to your health after quitting.
Sources: American Heart Association