So, I am planning ahead for the mental part, that head hunger. This is where I almost wish I could start smoking again (quit 25 yrs ago, and not doing it again) However, I wish there was something else, obviously besides smoking. Is gum allowed after 1-2 months post op, or never?

Also, what hobbies etc has anyone started, to fill that food-void. I am planning on getting a ton of good books, more dog-walking and exercise, using money saved on food & snacking and use it for pedicure or mani once in a while. I have a couple of games on my iphone. I guess I am just looking for other ideas, or reassurance, that the "hobby" of food will be able to be replaced by somehting healthier.

Edited September 15, 20178 yr by ProfessorSlim

Sewing will be my saving grace and going to the gym.

So, I am planning ahead for the mental part, that head hunger. This is where I almost wish I could start smoking again (quit 25 yrs ago, and not doing it again) However, I wish there was something else, obviously besides smoking. Is gum allowed after 1-2 months post op, or never?
Also, what hobbies etc has anyone started, to fill that food-void. I am planning on getting a ton of good books, more dog-walking and exercise, using money saved on food & snacking and use it for pedicure or mani once in a while. I have a couple of games on my iphone. I guess I am just looking for other ideas, or reassurance, that the "hobby" of food will be able to be replaced by somehting healthier.

I had surgery in June, down 75lb total now since I started inJan with my lifestyle changes. I started to volunteer more, it made me feel useful and happy as well as grateful. I also have found I enjoy crafting. I have found an easy pattern for these dog tug toys made out of fleece. I donate them to dog rescues or give them away. It keeps my hands busy and doesn’t make too much of a mess and I am not good at knitting! Below is a link to explain how to do it!

http://dalmatiandiy.blogspot.com/2015/08/diy-for-dogs-square-knot-fleece-tug-toy.html?m=1

This is a great thread! Full of great ideas. Especially timely for me since I'm feeling restless and bored right now. I usually drive to town and make a run through the drive through when I get like this but that habit is over. I'm currently on my liquid diet since surgery is on the 2nd. I really need to put my focus on some other things. I have plenty of hobbies. I crochet, journal, scrapbook, watch movies, read, and I have five dogs that keep me busy. I don't know how I have time to be bored. lol

I moved to a new state a year ago and still have some organizing to do. That *should* be distraction number one, but.... Since I moved, I haven't gotten my coloring books back out. I plan to do that, along with the jewelry making supplies I put away a couple years ago. I enjoyed that and have a big investment, but my job at the time required long hours. Will be good to pull that back out and make gifts for friends. I also plan to walk my dogs longer, do more hiking (dragging hubby out) and re-join a gym in my city for strength training.

I plan on exercising more.. it suppresses my cravings