My Story

On Freedom and Adventure – Without Cigarettes

Regina Hildebrandt

From trained journalist to certified Präventologin (Health Prevention Specialist), to coach and author – looking back, every step feels like it inevitably led to the work I do today. The theme of health has run like a red thread through my life, both professionally and personally, ultimately leading to my current role as a smoking cessation expert.

Looking back, I see my very first yoga class many years ago as the initial spark. At the time, I was searching for a counterbalance to the demands of journalism – something that would go beyond just physical relaxation. After only a few sessions, it became clear that my constant companion – the cigarette – was completely at odds with my desire for calm and physical well-being. My “little, silly habit” no longer fit who I was and clearly needed to go. And so began my search for a way to end what had then been nearly a 20-year smoking career.

After many unsuccessful attempts with various tools and methods, I came across a very different approach. A single six-hour session not only turned me into a non-smoker but also sparked a major life transformation.

I knew I had to share this incredible discovery with others. That’s when I started offering non-smoking seminars for companies and also private clients. Exploring the psychology of smokers, and diving into the roots of addiction and dependency, naturally led me to the broader topics of nutrition and stress management – and eventually into training as a certified Preventologist (Health Prevention Specialist).

Smoking, excess weight, and sensory overload are not signs of pleasure or expressions of freedom and adventure – far from it. The ability to truly enjoy life returns only when we are smoke-free, at a healthy weight, and able to relax. Taking preventive care of ourselves means reclaiming health and freedom by breaking away from addiction, poor nutrition, lack of movement, and stress.

In my view, the first domino that must fall on this path is always smoking. As long as cigarettes – or any so-called “alternatives” – are part of the picture, real health remains out of reach. But why do so few smokers even attempt to quit? For many, the act of quitting itself isn’t the real issue. It’s the fear of “sticking with it”, the anxiety around failing that holds most people back.

This question wouldn’t leave me alone. So, I finally followed through on a long-held plan: I took a closer look at what, both physically and mentally, actually happens  after someone quits smoking, where the main challenges lie, and most importantly, how they can be overcome.

Drawing from over 20 years of experience working with around 5,000 smokers, I compiled both my insights and those of my clients into a book. It’s called “YOU QUIT – now what?” and it offers support to anyone who wants something tangible alongside my coaching. It’s also a valuable companion for those going it alone, especially during the crucial first four weeks after quitting.

You can find more information here: YOU QUIT – now what? Your Guide to a Smoke-Free Life Without Relapse.

By the way, this exciting book project didn’t just bring together my first and second careers – journalism and health prevention – it also sparked ideas for more reading material. The next book is already in the works…