W-Food For Thought

October 26th Food Is Not Fun We have used eating as a form of recreation and have looked for excitement in food. For years, we have associated food with fun. What we need to remember constantly is that uncontrolled eating is no longer fun for us, but a trip into anguish. All of us have unpleasant memories of painful binges which began as attempts to experience pleasure through a small indulgence. We need to put these memories to work for us by associating them with the first compulsive bite. The idea that more and better food will bring us fun and pleasure is an illusion. We know this in our heads, but we need to feel it in our guts. Food is nourishment for our bodies-nothing more. To experience pleasure with our minds and hearts and bodies, we open ourselves to richer interpersonal relationships, to aesthetic experiences, to sports and hobbies and work well done. Abstinence from compulsive overeating liberates us to enjoy the activities which are fun Thank You for the fun and joy which abstinence brings. Daily Readings by Hazelden Meditation Series I know that I associate food w/pleasure. For instance, since we are in the Fall season, what comes to my mind besides the brisk air and the brilliant colors of the leaves is certain foods. October brings the urge for candy. Lots and lots of Halloween Candy!!! Shoot, the day after Halloween, I would go to WalMart and stock up on my favorite candy for half price. Now that was a lot of candy to binge on for a a few weeks. Than there is making of Beef Stews, Pot Roasts and of course Mashed Potatos and Biscuits and Gravy. Did I mention the Pies and Cobblers, etc., etc.. These were all comfort foods for me. The 'feel' good foods. I ate them to feel good, not to nourish my body. I lived to eat! I grew up associating food with fun and comfort and 'feel good'. What's the first thing we think of when we are invited to a party? Food is what comes to my mind, what should I bring/make. What are they serving? I'm not saying I/we shouldn't enjoy the taste of food, but we aren't to let it consume us and become everything to us. Having this surgery is only a part of helping us in our recovery. The rest is up to us. I know we are trying very hard to stay on our plans and let this tool work for us. Some of us are needing a little extra help with rebound weight, getting to goal and finding ways to stop the old way of coping by using food. I know that I am not cured. I am in recovery! Struggling at times and needing support everyday! If this makes me dependent than so be it. I would rather depend on the support of others than food. I need to get my head on straight and that's a struggle sometimes, but I am determined to overcome the power that food has had on me. Together this can be accomplished. Thank You for the opportunity of this forum/board to be able to help me when I am down and the opportunity to help others when they are in need of someone to give them hope and understanding. This is truly a God send. Jeannie

As always Thank You for sharing. Mary

Love what you shared.. I wish I was there, hope to get there! Wendy