Emotional Eating

I know one of the things my therapist talked to me about was finding other things I like to do...or can learn to like to do...instead of eating. One of my main concerns is changing the habit of reaching for food whenever I feel stressed, sad, tired, etc. I understand from a few different people that the food urges go away, but I still want to try to get in the habit now of doing something else other than shoving food in my mouth when I am emotional. I know exercise is a good release...but it is going to be pretty cold in NY a couple months after my surgery, so outdoor exercise is going to be out. I also have a very tiny house filled with 5 people...an exercise bike won't fit anywhere!!! I am making a list that I can refer to and right now it includes reading, listening to loud music, fiddling with some sort of object...playdough or something to keep my hands busy. I thought this would be a good brainstorming question that would benefit the whole group...what do ya'll think? Donna 17 days to go

Goodmorning Donna, you are already up and at em. I don't really do anything extra. I am focused on getting this surgery and getting the weight off. That has been my biggest motivation and the snacking has taken a back seat. Btty Boop60

Donna, have you looked at the walk away the pounds tapes? they take very little space just in front of the tv...they are great! debbie

Hi Donna I find that when I usually snack is when I am bored. I smoked for 16+ years, I quit Jan. 2, 2000. (One of my prouder moments in life.) I prayed every morning before my feet touched the floor, that God would take the temptation away from me. I quit cold turkey. no gum, no candy nothing but me and the Lord. Now I will tell you it was hard keeping my hands busy, so I started a journal. Every day I'd write something . It has helped me a great deal. It's been over 5 years and I have no urge at all to smoke. (and my husband still smokes.) I thank God because without him I couldn't have done it. What I like to do when I am bored is scrapbooking. You might give it a try. I find that time just flies when I am doing that. Drink lots of water (it will fill you up and is good for your weight loss) I don't know maybe it will help. That is what I am planning to do. We'll see ,huh?..........-Val C

Congrats Val!!! I have never smoked because of severe asthma, but I have watched my mother, father, brother, and husband struggle with quiting...only my brother is still smoking...but he is only 30 and has not really grown up yet. I know it is a daily struggle...keep up the journey!!! I like the idea of a journal...I have tried many times to start, but now seems like the best time ever to start and make it work!! Smile, Donna

Hi Donna... I took up scrapbooking. Mostly because it keeps my hand busy. A few of the women in mt support group did WLS scrapbook so that's where IM starting. Just an idea.... Erin 21 days to go

http://half.ebay.com/cat/buy/prod.cgi?cpid=22414&pr=22427 Try The Woman's Comfort Book. It has TONS of great ideas on how to find what truly comforts you in various situations.