The "So Now What?" Podcast Lana Manikowski

This week we are tapping into the concept of welcoming in happiness as you are navigating life after infertility and a new norm without the children you thought  you were supposed to have. Discover practical tips and heartfelt insights on finding joy, embracing gratitude, and celebrating the beauty in everyday moments.
In today's episode, I expand on episode 123, diving into the concept of happiness is not a destination but a journey, especially for those who are childless not by choice. If you missed last week's episode, I encourage you to catch up as we dive deeper into this topic.
As Mother's Day approaches, I invite listeners to consider self-care and connection, highlighting the importance of support for those who may find this holiday challenging. Reflecting on the purpose behind The Other’s Day Brunch in Chicago, I emphasize the power of seeking connection and support, especially during times that may trigger feelings of sadness or heaviness. Join us this year in Chicago and help us create a supportive community where all experiences are valued and celebrated.
In today's discussion, I address the misconception that happiness is your consolation prize for not becoming a mother. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, I encourage you to embrace the joys and beauties present in their lives, without comparison to motherhood or societal expectations.
As the episode progresses, I guide you through practical strategies for cultivating happiness and gratitude in everyday life. By acknowledging the beauty in small moments and celebrating personal achievements, we can create a more fulfilling and joyful journey, regardless of our path to motherhood.
Let's talk about embracing happiness beyond traditional notions, finding strength in the experiences you are having, and recognizing the abundance of beauty that surrounds us.  Thank you for tuning in to today's episode of The “So Now What?” Podcast. Remember, happiness is not a destination but a journey filled with moments of joy and gratitude. Embrace the beauty of your life, celebrate your victories, and cherish the happiness that surrounds you.
 

As we usher in a new month, I welcome you to pause and reflect on your path. What are you choosing to focus on this month? Remember, there are no boundaries to the richness your life can attain, even when the dream of motherhood didn’t happen for you.
But before we dive into the core of today's discussion on happiness, remember to get your tickets for The Others' Day Brunch. Scheduled for May 11th in Chicago, this event promises camaraderie and support as we navigate the complex emotions entwined with Mother's Day.
Now, let's unravel the essence of happiness and the expectations you have put on yourself to find happiness after your infertility journey left you childless. In Episode 123, I unravel the myth that happiness is a destination and not a journey.  Being happy is shoved down our thoughts and when you find yourself unhappy - you’ve been conditioned to believe you’re doing something all wrong.. This week I confront the fallacy of "toxic positivity," urging you to embrace the tapestry of your emotions.
Drawing from my journey toward certification in grief and post-traumatic grief, I illuminate the significance of acknowledging and honoring all emotional facets, even those that defy society's expectation of perpetual happiness. 
On a side note - I am  looking for volunteers that will do practice coaching with me. Part of my certification requires me to meet a certain number of hours coaching on grief, so if you are willing to hop on a 30 minute call with me to coach on any topic you are feeling grief around, please send me a DM.
Happiness isn't confined to societal norms or the façade of perfection. It resides in the small, everyday moments—the laughter shared with a friend, the warmth of a pet's companionship. Grant yourself the spaciousness to experience the full spectrum of emotions without judgment for how you are feeling.
In my eyes, the pursuit of happiness shouldn't overshadow the intricate tapestry of life's complexities. Embrace your journey, embrace yourself, and know that happiness, in its myriad forms, is always within reach.
Join me next week as we continue to navigate life's labyrinthine twists and turns, with a reminder that it's never too late to unearth your purpose. Until then, cherish the moments, embrace the journey, and find solace in the knowledge that you are never alone.
 

This week we wrap up our discussion on body image, particularly for those navigating life post-fertility treatments. As you reflect on your own journey, consider this:
What beliefs do you hold about your body? 
I share personal insights and encourage you to redefine your body image positively.
But before we dive in, I reflect on a heartwarming weekend with loved ones, emphasizing the importance of nurturing connections, especially with the younger generation. It's a reminder that bonds transcend traditional roles, echoing the theme of self-compassion and connection discussed in today's episode.
Throughout the episode, I challenge common narratives surrounding body image after fertility struggles. I am highlighting the impact of self-talk and invites you to reconsider ingrained beliefs about your body's purpose and capabilities.You're encouraged to shift from viewing your body as a source of disappointment to one deserving of love and appreciation.
I will also prompt you to envision a future where self-acceptance replaces self-criticism, paving the way for healing and empowerment. As you listen, consider the small steps you can take towards fostering a healthier body image. Whether it's acknowledging your body's resilience or practicing self-forgiveness, every effort contributes to a more positive self-perception.
I am also extending an invitation to The Other's Day Brunch, a gathering dedicated to celebrating connections and community. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and embrace a supportive environment.
So, as you reflect on today's episode, remember: Your journey towards self-love begins with a decision to redefine your body image and prioritize self-compassion. And if you're considering attending The Other's Day Brunch, seize the opportunity to connect and celebrate your journey with others who understand and support you.

Introduction:
Welcome to The "So Now What?" Podcast, where we embark on a journey of self-discovery and self-love after infertility. Today, we're diving into the power that comes with embracing our bodies and fostering a positive body image amidst the challenges we've faced. But first, let's celebrate the upcoming Other's Day Brunch – a safe haven for women like you who are seeking connection and empowerment on a weekend that traditionally seems so hard.
Other's Day Brunch:
Mark your calendars for May 11th in Chicago – it's the third annual Other's Day Brunch! Created for women who are not moms, may not have traditional mother figures or who feel disconnected during Mother's Day, this event is a celebration of sisterhood, connection, and self-love. Tickets are available at LanaManikowski.com/othersday or reach out on Instagram for more info. You deserve joy and celebration, not sadness, on Mother's Day.
Empowering Exercise:
In last week's episode, we explored guided meditation as a tool for self-awareness and forgiveness. If you haven't tuned in, check out episode 120. Today, let's delve into a powerful exercise inspired by personal reflection. Picture this: sitting poolside, faced with your reflection, and feeling disconnected from your body. It's a moment of realization, a moment where you decide to love your body despite its changes – be it post-infertility or menopause.
Embracing Self-Love:
Your body has been through so much, and it's time to show it the love and respect it deserves. Challenge the negative self-talk and societal standards by asking yourself: "Is this the love my body is seeking?" Just like salty snacks may not nourish your body, negative thoughts and judgments don't nourish your soul. Make choices that align with self-love, whether it's nourishing foods, positive affirmations, or embracing your body as it is.
Conclusion:
As you navigate the complexities of body image post-infertility, remember that self-love is a journey – not a destination. Embrace every curve, every scar, and every change as a testament to your strength and resilience. Join us at The Other's Day Brunch for a celebration of sisterhood and empowerment. And always remember, it's never too late to discover your meaning and embrace the beauty of who you are.
 

In this episode, I dive deep into the intricacies of body image, offering insights and strategies to help you break free from societal norms and redefine your relationship with your body. It's time to unwind the narrative that may have taken root in your mind, not because you did anything wrong, but because we often get caught up in societal expectations.
What to Expect This Month:
Throughout March, we're dedicating our episodes to the theme of body image, with today's installment promising to be particularly insightful. I provide valuable tools to help you create a new and positive image of yourself, even if your journey to motherhood took an unexpected turn.
Special Announcement: The Others' Day Brunch! 🌸
Before we dive into today's topic, a quick reminder that early bird tickets for the Others' Day Brunch are now on sale! Treat yourself to a day of connection, empowerment, and celebration with other incredible women. Hurry, as discounted tickets are available for a limited time. 
Embracing Your Body: A Journey to Forgiveness
I address the deep-rooted perception that your body may have failed you due to infertility challenges. It's time to shift the focus from what your body didn't achieve to all the amazing things it does every day – breathing, moving, supporting you.
In a powerful exercise, our I guide you through a body scan, encouraging you to express gratitude and forgiveness to each part of your body. This experiment is your opportunity to decide what you want to believe about your body, with no grading scale attached.
Reconnect and Reunite: A Body Love Experiment
Imagine the liberating feeling of not critiquing your reflection or feeling pangs of envy when seeing a baby bump. I share a simple yet transformative experiment to kickstart your journey toward self-love. By acknowledging and thanking each body part, you can begin to rebuild a positive relationship with your body.
How to Start the Experiment:
Find a quiet space.
Close your eyes.
Express gratitude for your presence and commitment to self-love.
Begin a head-to-toe body scan, thanking each part along the way.
Acknowledge your body's strength, resilience, and the unique journey it has taken you on.
Focus on forgiveness, particularly for the organs involved in your fertility journey.
Embrace your body as your best friend, vowing to love and appreciate it every day.
Conclusion: A New Chapter of Love and Acceptance
Imagine waking up each day with a renewed sense of self-love and acceptance. This simple yet profound experiment could be your first step towards that reality. Challenge the societal norms, release the judgments, and start a beautiful journey of reconciliation with your body.
 

I'm beyond thrilled to be back in Chicago after a whirlwind of adventures. If you've been tagging along on my YouTube journey, you've seen me bouncing from one place to another. But now, I'm back in the Windy City, feeling immensely proud after taking a whopping 17 days away from home – a significant feat for this recovering workaholic.
Now, let's dive into the exciting updates and some heartfelt moments from my time away. A big shoutout to my amazing co-worker and the fantastic students who joined me on the road, making this hiatus truly memorable.
But wait – have you heard about The Others Day Brunch? Brace yourself for an extraordinary experience!
If you attended last year, you know I throw an unforgettable party. And this year? It's going to blow your socks off. Head to LanaManikowsky.com/othersday for early bird tickets priced at $60, including a sumptuous lunch crafted by a talented chef, a bottomless mimosa bar, and a swag bag worth hundreds. Plus, the chance to connect with phenomenal women who, like you, navigate the complexities of being childless, not by choice. Save the date – May 11th, our third annual Others Day Brunch in Chicago. Check out discounted hotel rates on the website!
Now, let's talk March themes! Relationships last month, and now, brace yourself for the empowering conversations about BODY IMAGE.
Ladies, let's go beyond the superficial. I'm addressing women who are childless, not by choice or childless after infertility – your body image runs deep, deeper than we often discuss in our community. This month, we're delving into various aspects of body image, exploring the areas where you might feel disconnected or disappointed by your body.
But here's the exciting part – this isn't just about how your body looks. It's about the internal struggles, the emotional weight, and the areas we rarely shine a light on. If something resonates with you today, share your thoughts with me. DM me on Instagram or shoot an email to hi@LanaManikowski.com. Your insights might shape upcoming episodes.
Let's get real about body image – it's more than the physical appearance.
As a woman who has faced the challenges of infertility, you might have felt your body let you down. This month, we're exploring the emotional and internal dimensions of body image. From feelings of brokenness to comparisons with others, we'll cover it all. Stay tuned for my personal weight loss journey, how hormones during fertility treatments affected my relationship with my body and food.
We're diving deep into the comparison game, exploring how your body image might be influenced by societal expectations and exhaustion from fertility treatments. Feeling disconnected? It's normal. You haven't given up on your body, and your body hasn't given up on you – perhaps a reconnection is in order.
Get ready for a magical and transformative experience!
Join me on The "So Now What?" Podcast this month as we navigate the complex terrain of body image. Let's recalibrate our perceptions and learn to love ourselves without waiting for external changes. If you've been yearning for a space to explore these feelings, this is it. The mirror won't be the same after this transformative journey.
So, beautiful soul, hop on board and let's make this month about self-love and embracing the uniqueness of your body. You're not alone, and you don't have to wait for any changes to start loving yourself. This is your moment – the journey starts now! 🌟