Finding happiness within yourself after weight loss surgery involves more than just physical transformation — it’s a journey of emotional healing, self-discovery, and building new habits. Here’s a breakdown of how to cultivate happiness and inner peace post-surgery:

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🧠 1. Redefine Your Self-Worth

Weight loss doesn’t automatically fix self-esteem. It’s important to:

• Acknowledge your worth beyond appearance.

• Reflect on your values, strengths, and the courage it took to make such a life-changing decision.

• Journal or talk about what you love about yourself that has nothing to do with your body.

Prompt to reflect on:
“Who am I becoming beyond the number on the scale?”

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🪞 2. Embrace the Emotional Journey

You may experience unexpected emotions like grief, fear, or anxiety after surgery — this is normal.

• Therapy (especially with a bariatric specialist) can help unpack body image issues or unresolved trauma.

• Practice self-compassion: you’re allowed to feel complex emotions during this process.

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🧘‍♀️ 3. Reconnect With Your Body

You might feel disconnected from your body post-surgery. Reconnection can help:

• Try gentle movement like yoga, walking, or dancing — not to lose weight, but to feel good.

• Practice mindful eating and gratitude for your body’s abilities.

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🧑‍🤝‍🧑 4. Surround Yourself With Supportive People – The BariGirls are here to help you.  Go to the “Shop” tab to order a Consult with The BariGirls.

• Connect with support groups for post-bariatric patients.

• Distance yourself from toxic or appearance-focused conversations.

• Build friendships based on shared interests, not shared insecurities.

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🎯 5. Create New Goals That Inspire You

After focusing on weight loss, it’s easy to feel a sense of “what now?” Rediscover your passion.

• Set goals unrelated to your weight or appearance — travel, learn a skill, try a hobby.

• Track progress in how you feel, not just how you look.

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🌱 6. Celebrate Non-Scale Victories (NSVs)

Happiness thrives when you acknowledge wins like:

• Walking without pain

• Fitting comfortably in chairs

• Being more confident in public

• Saying “yes” to social events

Make a list of NSVs and revisit it when you need motivation.

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📵 7. Limit Social Comparison

Social media can distort your perception of progress and happiness.

• Unfollow accounts that trigger comparison.

• Follow those promoting body neutrality, mental health, and authentic journeys.

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❤️ 8. Build a New Relationship With Food

Food isn’t the enemy; it’s nourishment.

• Focus on balance and intuitive eating (when cleared by your healthcare provider).

• Cook or prep meals you enjoy — make it an act of self-love, not punishment.

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🕯️ 9. Practice Gratitude and Presence

• Write down 3 things you’re grateful for each day.

• Meditate or do breathing exercises to connect with the moment.

• Remember: happiness often comes from noticing what’s already good.

And remember above all the Bari Hive Five to keep your success going:

1.  Have you taken your multivitamin?

2.  Are you portion controlling?

3.  Are you drinking enough water?

4.  Are you exercising?

5.  Are you eating enough protein?

Remember you must do all five to achieve and maintain your weight loss journey.  Don’t forget to hug yourself regularly!!!