Better than Mindless Eating

[SKCUNNINGHAM 298]

Almost six months since surgery. I realize I now am no longer dependent on food for emotional comfort - just nourishment (most of the time).

Here is a my top five things I have realized. Rather than mindlessly putting food into my mouth to meet my every need (or potential need) - have learned:

1. I would much rather have a good time in bed with my DH than think about what is for dinner or desert.

2. I would rather than a bite or two of something really good then stop, than stuff myself and feel miseable.

3. If I am at loose ends and restless - I go try on clothes that fit - rather than graze in the fridge (zipping my size 14's feel better than fritos taste)

4. Eating does not help me feel better if I am sad or mad - I have found doing something physical helps. (Take a walk - pound my fist on my desk, you name it)

5. Physical exercise can actually be fun and it can feel good. I actually LIKE to do Zumba and work out on my elliptical.

Anyone want to add to the list?

[Amanda131 214]

I would rather...

1. Run! Who knew hitting the pavement would feel so good and empowering?

2. Check this site... it's staved off more than one urge to munch!

3. Use all of this new-found energy to play with my little girl. I end up wearing a lot of tiaras these days.

4. Straighten my home... things are more organized than they have been in years!

5. Chat with friends and family. I am lost that slightly anti-social edge that obesity seemed to give me.

Great topic, SK!

Amanda

[ILKrista 36]

Fun idea! Mine are:

1. Trying on clothes (I hit Goodwill every Sunday to do this)!
2. Flirting - I'm not married & haven't really dated in the past 10 years because I was so embarassed by my weight, so flirting has been really fun.
3. Going out - I finally had the courage to join a meetup group & make some new friends. Going out has been great. Before I was practically homebound with the exception of going to work.
4. Planning trips- I love to travel but haven't done much in the past few years because flying when fat is no fun & traveling when everything exhausts you sucks. So I am planning future trips to the places I really want to go.
5. Ummm... flirting again ? I can't think of another one.

[CT Fats 82]

I love this! I so have to replace eating as a hobby.

[Indymom 132]

Great idea to go trying on clothes at Goodwill! I can't wait to go do that.

I've already noticed how much more energy I have and I'm only 6 days out. It's amazing how much eating cruddy food in mass quantities can drag your body down.

[nowatgoal 77]

1. I would much rather have a good time in bed with my DH than think about what is for dinner or desert.

I can see why you would put this as #1! LOL

[SKCUNNINGHAM 298]

1. I would much rather have a good time in bed with my DH than think about what is for dinner or desert.

I can see why you would put this as #1! LOL

Slimming Sara - I may be going to Celebrate my 55th birthday this December - but I still have my priorites right. And, I REALLY am enjoying being lighter!

[Buckeye Girl 8]

I love this topic! Can't wait til I can contribute.

[Indymom 132]

Only 11 days out so I'm not released for full exercise yet, but walking is AMAZING! I am walking a mile at least twice daily now (at a brisk pace) and just 2 months ago, my "old self" would have shunned even half that . . .

[phished10 1]

Loving this thread