Introduction
Eating boogers—or picking your nose and then eating the boogers—is a common habit in both adults and children. While it is not necessarily dangerous, it can be embarrassing and off-putting for those around you. If you are looking for ways to stop eating boogers, there are several strategies that can help you break this habit.
Keeping Hands Busy
One of the best methods for stopping the urge to pick your nose is to keep your hands busy. Activities such as knitting, playing with playdough or doing puzzles can all help to take your mind off of the habit. Keeping your hands occupied also means that you won’t be tempted to pick your nose when you’re feeling bored or idle.
In addition to keeping your hands busy, there are many other benefits to engaging in activities like these. According to a study published in The Journals of Gerontology, doing puzzles or other activities that require motor skills can help to improve cognitive performance and reduce the risk of developing dementia or other memory problems.
Use a Tissue
Another way to stop eating boogers is to grab a tissue instead of picking your nose. If you feel the urge to pick your nose, use a tissue to blow your nose instead. This will help to get rid of any mucus or boogers that may be bothering you. Not only will this help to get rid of the boogers, but it will also help to reduce the temptation to eat them.
Distract Yourself
When you feel the urge to pick your nose, try to do something else. Taking your mind off of the habit can be helpful in breaking it. Examples of activities that can help distract you include reading a book, listening to music, going for a walk or talking to a friend. Doing something else when you feel the urge to pick your nose can help to reduce the temptation to actually do it.
Wear Gloves
If you are in public and feel the urge to pick your nose, wearing gloves can be a good way to prevent yourself from doing it. Wearing gloves makes it difficult to pick your nose, which means you won’t be as tempted to do it. This is especially useful if you find yourself in a situation where you don’t have access to a tissue or other distraction.
Talk to a Doctor
If you are struggling to stop eating boogers, consulting a doctor can be a good idea. A doctor can provide advice on how to break the habit and offer tips on how to reduce the temptation to pick your nose. They may also be able to refer you to a specialist who can help you further.
Avoid Triggers
Identifying situations that make you want to pick your nose can be helpful in avoiding triggers. For example, if you find yourself wanting to pick your nose when you are bored, try to find other activities to do instead. If you find yourself wanting to pick your nose in public, try to wear gloves or carry tissues with you. Being aware of what triggers your urge to pick your nose can help you to avoid it.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is a technique that can help you to reduce the urge to pick your nose. When you feel the urge to pick your nose, pause and take a few deep breaths. This will help to calm your mind and reduce the temptation to pick your nose. Practicing mindfulness can help to break the habit of eating boogers and can also help to reduce stress and anxiety.
Conclusion
Eating boogers is a common habit that can be embarrassing and off-putting for those around you. Fortunately, there are several strategies that can help to stop the habit. Keeping your hands busy, using a tissue, distracting yourself, wearing gloves, talking to a doctor, avoiding triggers and practicing mindfulness are all effective ways to stop eating boogers. With persistence and dedication, you can break the habit and enjoy a booger-free life.
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