Unfocused

hello all,

I am six days postop RNY. Physically doing well. Walking, farting, burping, increasing my intake to the needed amounts daily. What is odd is that I feel sort of lost. No longer can I think about the variety of foods I can eat today. I am on Stage II for one more week. I find I am contemplating more and more what to replace happy thoughts with rather than food. I am laying down new cognitive tracks for the type and amount of food eaten, yet what does one do with that feeling that food will take care of everything? As I have learned, feelings pass and change and yet I feel like I am grieving a loss of a dear friend. Food took care of me for so many years. I will miss that companionship even knowing it was unhealthy I felt loved and secure.  I know grieving is normal and natural. Just wondering if anyone else has had similar feelings. 

It is now the time for new beginnings. Years ago I took a drawing class and enjoyed it. I never could draw a straight line. I am going to dig out my sketch book and draw. Art therapy perhaps. Another new item- being gentle and kind to myself.

Sue

I started knitting and reading to fill some of the time I would have spent with food. And exercise is the thing that helps me deal with stress now.

It is a huge adjustment. Like losing any friend you will grieve. But like when you move on from any friend this one no longer served your needs, in fact was no longer a friend just making you gain weight and have sicknesses.

You seem to be heading in the right direction thinking of healthier things to be friends with and do. Coloring is very popular with adults these days and there are lots of nice coloring books out there. I have just started coloring again after many years. Like you I have not been good at drawing straight lines.

Hoping you continue with a rapid and healthy recovery.

Thank you for your replies Karen and Ponderosa. 

I did pull out my sketch book today. Very relaxing. And with your suggestion I found a coloring book and 64 crayola box  I was given as a birthday present a few years ago. Soothing to me

thank you

Sue

Hi

I'm 3 months post op- I didn't feel lost but I felt a loss for not being able to eat large quantities of food. It is getting better. Exercise does help as well as finding diversions instead of eating.

I also make jewelry, cards and sell on ebay so that keeps me busy when not at work