Up In Smoke
A temporary trend or a more permanent pastime? Is vaping here to stay or will it disappear as quickly as a cloud of smoke?
The high street may be struggling as physical retail capitulates to the rise of online shopping but one sector that continues to defy the pattern is vaping, with dedicated stores ubiquitous in an otherwise depressed market.
White plumes of candy floss like smoke from ever more intricate devices are becoming more common place in almost all walks of life but is there is longevity to this craze.
What is vaping?
Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling vapour, which is produced generally by an e-cigarette, or similar device. To many, these may be an alternative form of smoking, to others a new recreational pastime.
Although very much in its infancy, Vaping isn’t the “magic cure” for smoking some might have you believe. The technology is still evolving, medical science is doing its best to evaluate its benefits and the jury is “out” on the long-term health effects.
As a non-vaper I have my own point of view regarding this new phenomenon:
Pro’s for vaping
To me, one of the initial advantages is the fact that vaping fumes are odourless or can even have a pleasant aroma. It does not leave a lingering odour in the air or on your clothes, as you are not actually producing smoke.
Vaping appears to be a better and safer alternative to smoking for the individual, the people around them and the environment.
Another upside to vaping is that it’s free of residue, smoke, and ash. You don’t have to be worried about unappealing tobacco breath, stained fingers and teeth and messy ash as no tar is released and you do not burn anything, removing the risk of fire.
Vaping also promotes social engagement and can aid relaxation. Just as breathing during meditation or yoga stretching has relaxation benefits, the ritual of vaping has calming effects on the mind and body. Similarly, many people find that just the act of stepping outside or aside from whatever is stressing them out to have a second to themselves to vape is calming in itself.
Variety is the spice of life and with the huge choice of flavours and vape equipment available, there is no lack of options for either the casual or committed user.
Con’s for vaping
Apparently, some people get dehydrated when vaping, therefore it is important to remember to drink.
Some people are allergic to the propylene glycol in the liquid. However, there is an alternative to buy liquids high in vegetable glycerin instead.
Vaping research will continue. The mounting body of scientific evidence is growing toward vaping being a legitimate risk reduction method. However, we do not know if there are long-term health risks associated with vaping because there is no evidence either way at this point.
Is there a credible risk of addiction to vaping?
Poppy Watt