Music has been an important part of my life on this planet and has soundtracked most (if not all) of my experiences. Music is a universal language that has the power to connect people across cultures, languages and beliefs. For an individual it can soothe, comfort, challenge, and motivate – who doesn’t have a song/album/playlist that goes on the moment you need to get that housework done?
For this blog we wanted to use the universal language of music to create a soundtrack that helps give energy and motivation to anyone who has made the amazing decision to quit smoking!
The good news: Hampshire is finding its breath
If you’ve been thinking about breaking that tobacco cycle, you’re not alone. In fact, you’re part of a massive movement across the county.
Latest data from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows an encouraging trend: smoking rates in Hampshire have dropped to 9.3%. That is significantly lower than the national average of 10.4%. While it’s great to see statistics, it’s important to remember that they represent thousands of people in our communities who have made the incredible decision to quit smoking.
Quitting isn’t just a health choice; it’s a lifestyle remix
We want to inject some positivity and motivation into your smoke-free decision.
In true Top of the Pops (remember that?) fashion, we are proud to present the Action Hampshire SmokeFree and Happy playlist! These are the songs we have curated to help soundtrack your smokefree journey, but we’d love to hear your suggestions! Keep an eye our social media and comment with your additions to the list.
The “SmokeFree and Happy” Playlist
| Song Title | Artist | The Vibe |
| Feeling Good | Nina Simone | A soulful celebration of the clarity that comes with fresh lungs. |
| Van Halen | Jump | For that first big leap of faith into a smoke-free life |
| Dog Days Are Over | Florence + The Machine | For when the cravings finally start to fade |
| Happy | Pharrel Williams | Feel-good hit of dopamine |
| Kate Bush | Running Up That Hill | Quitting may take several attempts, but it’s all part of the journey. Keep going! |
| Journey | Don’t Stop Believing | Self-explanatory banger! Keep up your perseverance |
| Fleetwood Mac | Don’t Stop | The ultimate anthem for looking forward – Yesterday’s gone! |
| U2 | Beautiful Day | The day is coming when you can say you are smoke free, and what a beautiful day that will be |
| Pointer Sisters | I’m So Excited | Channelling that nervous quitting energy into pure positivity. |
| Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars | Up-Town Funk | Pure high-energy distraction to dance through a 5-minute craving. |
Expert Tip: Music releases dopamine—the same “feel-good” chemical your brain craves from nicotine. When a craving hits, put on your headphones and turn up the volume!
Supporting a Smokefree Hampshire in 2026
At Action Hampshire, we want to empower our local community and voluntary sector organisations (VCSEs) to play a crucial role in helping local smokers bridge the gap between wanting to quit and succeeding.
We are hosting our Let’s Be Smokefree Workshop, designed for Hampshire-based VCSE organisations, staff, and volunteers. Attending will equip you with the knowledge and tools to effectively signpost and refer local smokers to the free, flexible support available through the Smokefree Hampshire service.
Help us make Hampshire healthier. Join our workshop and become the vital link that connects your community members with a smoke-free future!
