Joy Muck Club

Hey friends,This is a quick note to let you know that I'm taking a short pause with the podcast and my newsletter. In this brief episode, I let you know why and what I'll be up to in the mean time.While I'm on this pause, I would love to hear from you to know what information you want me to cover here and how I can best help you move forward to a happier and healthier life. Drop me a comment here or email me at [email protected]. You can also hit me up on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok. Or I’d love to catch up with you on Substack.And if you'd like to work with me one-on-one to get some help navigating this chronic illness life with more ease and joy, fill out this form.I hope you have a joyful month and I'll see you in August! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

Living with chronic illness can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go it alone. In this episode, I talk about building your resilience circle: the people, resources, and relationships that support you through the tough days and help you hold on to hope. From chosen family to online communities, from professionals to quiet supporters behind the scenes – your circle matters. Because resilience isn’t just a personal quality, it’s also about who is holding your hand when things get hard.In this episode, you’ll hear:* Why resilience doesn’t mean doing it alone* The different types of support your circle can include* How to identify who’s already in your resilience circle and where there may be gaps* Ways to call in more support, even if it feels vulnerable* Reassurance that you’re not a burden and that everyone needs helpWhether you’re just starting to build your support system or you’re reevaluating who’s in your corner, this episode is a reminder that you deserve support that sees you, respects you, and holds space for the fullness of your experience.Key Info:The resilience support circle roles* The listener: The person who holds space without trying to fix it. They say “That sounds really hard. I’m here.”* The problem-solver: The one who helps research treatments, track symptoms, or plan logistics when you ask them to.* The grounder: A calming presence. They help you feel steady during upheaval.* The joy-bringer: Someone who brings laughter, lightness, or distraction when you need a break from being “the sick one”.* The peer: Someone with shared lived experience who “gets it” without explanation.* The professional: Therapist, coach, doctor, or healer. Paid help counts as part of your resilience circle, especially if they respect your reality.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode, I’m getting real about why the body positivity movement, while helpful for some, just didn’t fit once chronic illness came into the picture. The pressure to love a body that constantly hurts, lets you down, or limits your life? Yeah, that felt like a whole new kind of shame.That’s where body neutrality comes in.I’m sharing:* Why body positivity can feel toxic or performative when you're chronically ill* What body neutrality actually means (it’s not just a buzzword!)* Simple, realistic ways to start practicing body neutrality in your everyday life* How this mindset shift has helped me feel less shame and more compassionThis one’s especially for you if:* You’ve felt like a failure for not loving your body enough* You’re tired of pretending everything’s okay when your body is falling apart* You want a more sustainable, compassionate way to exist in your bodySend me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

If the word routine makes you roll your eyes or cringe a little, you’re not alone. Most traditional advice around routines assumes a body that works the same way every day, and that’s just not the reality for those of us living with chronic illness. In this episode, we’re breaking down why rigid routines often don’t work for us and how to reimagine routines as adaptive rhythms that can flex with your fluctuating energy, symptoms, and needs.You’ll learn:* Why the mainstream “rise and grind” routine culture often fails people with chronic illness* What it looks like to build flexible routines that actually support you, not stress you out* How to create routines with built-in choices and backup plans for flare days* How adaptive routines can help you feel more grounded, even when your body throws a curveballWhether you’re brand new to routines or trying to rebuild after a burnout spiral, this episode will help you redefine routine on your terms and maybe even make peace with the idea of structure.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

There’s a big difference between using mindset tools to support your well-being and expecting them to magically cure you. In this episode, we’re calling out the toxic side of “mind over matter” culture and the harmful idea that your thoughts alone are responsible for your health.If you’ve ever felt guilty for not “thinking positively enough” or been told to just visualize your way out of a flare-up, this one’s for you. We’ll explore the real overlap between mindset and chronic illness, what resilience can look like without constant pushing, and a simple way to start seeing and building more resilience in your life.What you’ll hear in this episode:* Why “mindset work” is helpful—but not a cure* How toxic positivity gaslights people with chronic illness* The truth about resilience (it’s not about pushing through)* What real, sustainable resilience can look like in a sick bodyDON’T FORGET: Not mastering mindset tools isn’t a failure of willpower. You’re doing the best you can and that is perfect.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram, Threads, or TikTok. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

On the hard days when pain, fatigue, or overwhelm take over, peace can feel out of reach. In this episode, I explore creative and gentle ways to invite peace in, especially during flare days or emotional lows. You'll learn how creativity can be a healing tool, not just a hobby, and how even the tiniest act of self-expression can create a sense of calm and groundingI’ll also talk through some accessible, low-energy activities designed with chronic illness in mind—things you can try even when you’re stuck in bed or navigating brain fog. This episode is packed with supportive ideas to help you build your own Flare Day Toolkit.What you’ll hear in this episode:* What a "Flare Day Toolkit" is and how to make one that actually helps* The role of creativity in healing, processing emotion, and building resilience* Ways to make art without any pressure or skill* Simple, spoonie-friendly activities that foster calm (even if you have no energy)Loved this episode? Subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow spoonie or soul in need of some peace.Interested in working with an arts therapist? Click here to find one near youSend me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode, I talk about what acceptance really means for those living with chronic illness and why it’s not the same as giving up. I talk about how making peace with your limitations can open the door to new choices, greater empowerment, and even unexpected joy. I walk you through the simple and powerful steps to practicing acceptance no matter the situation. Acceptance isn’t resignation – it’s a courageous, compassionate step that allows you to stop fighting yourself and start living in alignment with your truth.What you’ll hear in this episode:* What acceptance really means (and what it doesn’t)* How resisting your reality can keep you stuck* Why making peace with limitations is a form of empowerment* How acceptance helps you see options you couldn’t see before* Ways to embrace acceptance without letting go of hope for healing, change, or joyAcceptance is the foundation for making aligned choices that support your well-being, your worth, and your joy.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and FacebookP.S. Apologies to anyone who is getting this again. I somehow manage to publish this as a post and not a podcast episode the first time. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

Living with chronic illness is already exhausting — physically, emotionally, and mentally. But what happens when your own brain starts piling on with a steady stream of unhelpful, critical, or downright rude thoughts? That’s where ANTs come in — Automatic Negative Thoughts — and they’re sneaky little jerks.What you’ll hear in this episode:* What ANTs actually are (no, not the bug kind)* How they impact your physical and emotional health, especially with chronic illness* How to start noticing, questioning, and gently shifting those thoughts — without toxic positivity or shameYou’ll walk away with practical ways to start quieting your inner critic, reclaim a little mental space, and give yourself the compassion you actually deserve.Because your brain doesn’t have to be one more thing you’re fighting against.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

Welcome to today’s episode where I’m tackling the biggest myth in the wellness industry: the idea that you can "just think positive" and bam—instant peace and perfect health! It’s not that simple, and in fact, that kind of toxic positivity is doing more harm than good. I’m starting off by discussing why honesty with yourself is the real secret to inner peace (sorry, but "good vibes only" just doesn’t cut it). And because we all know the wellness world loves a good "quick fix," we’ll also dive into how we can kick the pressure to be "always happy" to the curb, especially when living with chronic illness. Plus, stick around for a guided visualization exercise to help you discover a more peaceful, real version of yourself.In this episode, I talk about:* What peace really is and why it’s so important for navigating chronic illness* The lie that is toxic positivity and how it throws us out of alignment* A visualization exercise to define what peace is for youSend me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

If you've ever set a goal, then immediately needed a nap, this episode is for you. Today I’m diving into the not-so-glamorous (but totally badass) world of goal-setting while living with chronic illness. Whether you're dealing with fatigue, flares, brain fog, or the occasional existential crisis, I’ve got tips, tricks, and some real talk to help you push through mental blocks without pushing yourself over the edge.In This Episode, I Cover:* Why mental blocks hit differently when your body’s already doing the most* Journaling prompts to discover and move past those blocks* The art of setting realistic AF goals that still feel exciting and honor where you are* Why patience is the hardest and most important component in achieving goals with chronic illnessIf it’s been a while since you let yourself plan for the future, I invite you to give it a try again. You deserve to still have dreams and goals, and I know we can get you there together!Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

If you’ve been living with chronic illness, you know how easy it is to put your dreams on pause — or feel like you don’t have space for them anymore. In this episode, I’m talking about what it means to let yourself dream again — not in spite of your illness, but alongside it. Whether you’re just beginning to wonder what if? again, or you’re deep in the process of rebuilding, this episode is a reminder: your dreams still matter — and they’re allowed to look different than they did before.We’ll explore:* Why dreaming and goal-setting can feel so vulnerable when your body doesn’t always cooperate* How to reconnect with desire, imagination, and possibility — even if it’s been a long time* And I’ll go through a set of journaling prompts to help you start exploring and finding new dreamsThis conversation is part gentle pep talk, part practical strategy session — for anyone who's ready to start imagining more for themselves, one doable step at a time.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In today’s episode, we dive deep into the journey of self-discovery, particularly after experiencing major life changes like illness. How do you regain your footing when life as you knew it is disrupted? It can feel disorienting when we're faced with something that shakes our identity, but there’s an opportunity to rebuild and redefine who we are. In this episode, I explore the need to redefine your sense of self, the importance of understanding your core values, and how to align your life with those values in a meaningful way. Plus, I walk you through a hands-on exercise to help you identify and define your core values, setting the stage for a more purposeful and aligned life.Key Takeaways:* Redefining Your Sense of Self is Essential After Major Life Changes* Core Values Are Your Foundation* Core Values Help You Navigate Tough Times* Identifying Your Core Values Is a Simple, Yet Powerful ExerciseSend me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this empowering episode, I dive into the crucial practice of separating your chronic illness from your identity. It’s easy to let your illness become who you are, but we discuss why this can limit your potential and prevent you from reaching your full capacity for growth, dreams, and healing.In this episode, I cover:* The impact of illness on identity: How chronic illness can sometimes feel like it defines you, and why it’s important to see yourself as more than your diagnosis.* The dangers of becoming your illness: Why identifying as your illness can block personal growth and limit your future possibilities.* Creating space for dreams and goals: How separating your illness from your identity can free you to pursue your passions, ambitions, and true self.* A creative exercise: Learn how to “meet” your chronic illness monster through a fun and therapeutic drawing exercise. By externalizing your illness as a monster, you can start to shift your relationship with it and gain back control over your life.I hope this episode inspires you to redefine your relationship with your illness and take steps toward living a life full of purpose and possibility.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode, I dive into an essential yet often overlooked part of healing after a chronic illness diagnosis: grief. Losing the old version of yourself – the person you were before your illness – can be heartbreaking. But allowing yourself to grieve is the first step to embracing joy and rebuilding a life that feels fulfilling and meaningful.We’ll explore why grief is a necessary part of the healing process and how it opens the door to joy.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:* Why grieving your old self is an important step in healing* How unprocessed grief can hold you back from finding joy* Why grief is not about staying stuck but about making space for new possibilities* Three exercises to help you process your grief and move forward with self-compassionThree Grieving Exercises to Try:* Write a Letter to Your Past Self – Express your feelings and acknowledge what has changed, honor what you miss, and give yourself permission to move forward.* Releasing Ceremony – Collect objects that represent the old you and take time to honor the feelings attached to those objects before letting them go to create more space for the new you.* Goodbye Visualization – This guided visualization gives you an opportunity to stand in front of the old you, thank them for who they are and all they did, and say goodbye with love and gratitude.Final Thoughts:Grieving your old self isn’t about dwelling in sadness, it’s about acknowledging what was, so you can fully embrace what is and what’s to come. By allowing yourself to process grief, you create space for joy, hope, and new dreams.If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Send me a message, share this with someone who might need it, and don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations about finding joy after chronic illness.Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

What if success wasn’t about meeting society’s expectations but about honoring what truly matters to you? In this episode, we’re rewriting the rules and creating a personal definition of success—one that reflects your values, your journey, and your unique wins.We’ll dive into why tracking small victories can shift your mindset, how to notice and celebrate the good in your daily life, and journal prompts to help you see just how much you have to be proud of. Because you deserve to celebrate yourself—right now, exactly as you are.Journal Prompts Share in This Episode:1) What is one small victory I achieved today (or this week or month)?2) What was the best part of my day today?3) What made me smile or laugh recently?4) How have I grown emotionally, mentally, or spiritually over the past year?5) What’s something past me would be proud of present me for?6) How have I shown up for myself in a way that I’m proud of?7) Who in my life has made a positive impact on me, and how?8) What’s a way I’ve been a source of support or kindness for someone else?9) What’s something I’m looking forward to, no matter how small?10) What’s a dream or goal I’m excited to work toward?Tune in for inspiration, reflection, and practical ways to start recognizing your progress in a whole new way!Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to my Substack for an archive of all my podcast episodes and newslettersSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode, I explore the transformative power of taking time to pause and celebrate—whether it’s big accomplishments or small everyday moments. I talk about how celebration can be a game-changer in building momentum toward your goals, creating lasting habits, and improving both your physical and mental health. By making celebration a regular habit, you can not only celebrate what you’ve achieved but also honor who you are and the progress you’re making. Plus, I’ll discuss how to turn daily moments into reasons to celebrate and offer ideas for celebrating both on your own and with others. Get ready to learn how a simple shift in mindset can create a ripple effect that enhances your well-being and keeps you motivated on your journey!Key Topics:* Using celebration to build momentum in habits and goals* How a habit of celebration can improve your physical and mental health* Turning everyday moments into opportunities for celebration* Celebrating not just your accomplishments, but also who you are* Ways to celebrate solo and with othersAnd don’t forget to write in and share your celebration moments with me. The last episode of this month will be all about celebrating you!Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this short but impactful episode, we dive into the power of celebrating yourself—especially when navigating the challenges of chronic illness. I share why it's so important to take a moment to honor yourself, even when things feel tough, and how celebrating can shift your mindset to foster healing and empowerment.We explore:* The importance of celebrating yourself and acknowledging your victories, big and small.* I share where my passion for celebration comes from.* A Request for YOU: I want to hear from you! What do you want to be celebrated for? Whether it’s a small win or a huge milestone, I’d love to highlight your story in a future episode.Feel free to write in and share your celebration moments with me.Thank you for tuning in, and don’t forget to celebrate YOU today!Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

Living with a chronic illness means navigating unique challenges, including managing your energy, protecting your mental health, and maintaining relationships. One of the most powerful tools for thriving despite chronic illness is setting boundaries—but that can be easier said than done.In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into:·        Why boundaries are essential for managing chronic illness·        How to identify where you need better boundaries·        Common problem areas (work, family, friendships, medical care, etc.)·        Strategies for setting and enforcing boundaries·        Scripts you can use for tough conversationsIf you’ve ever felt guilty about saying no, struggled with people-pleasing, or felt drained by others’ expectations, this episode is for you!Send me an email with any questions or commentsSubscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful lifeIf you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, I dive into the tough but crucial word: “No.” I explore why it can be so challenging to say “no,” the guilt that often follows, and how to release that guilt. If you're looking to build more strength and confidence in saying “no” to things that aren’t serving you, this episode is for you. Key topics covered: It’s hard to say “no” due to conditioning, learned behavior, guilt The myth of people pleasing and how it’s harming your relationships How to release the guilt about saying “no” Learning that “no” is a complete sentence – you don’t owe anyone an explanation And tips on how to build confidence around saying “no” Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

Boundaries aren’t about shutting people out – they’re about letting the right kind of love in. In this episode, we’re diving deep into why boundaries are a fundamental act of self-love, how setting and honoring them impacts your emotional well-being, and what they have to do with creating more joy in your life. If you’ve ever struggled with setting boundaries—or keeping the ones you set—this episode is for you. It’s time to stop feeling guilty about protecting your peace and start seeing boundaries as a powerful way to love yourself. Key topics covered: What boundaries really are and why they’re an essential part of self-care What boundaries with yourself look like The emotional toll of not sticking to your boundaries How healthy boundaries lead to more joy in your life ·        And I walk you through an important exercise for evaluating the quality of the boundaries you have set with yourself Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, we explore the essential role of boundaries in building and maintaining healthy relationships. I break down the idea that boundaries aren’t walls but guidelines for how to love yourself and others in a respectful, balanced way. We’ll discuss the signs of unhealthy boundaries, including when relationships feel draining or imbalanced, and how recognizing these signs is key to creating stronger, more fulfilling connections. Plus, we’ll dive into why setting boundaries is ultimately an act of self-love and a powerful reminder of your worth. Key topics covered: Boundaries are an essential foundation to healthy relationships The signs of unhealthy boundaries Boundaries as an act of self-love and knowing your worth Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, we dive deep into the powerful and often challenging journey of loving your body when you're living with a chronic illness. We discuss the importance of redefining your sense of self-worth beyond physical health and how to release guilt about your limitations. Rest isn’t a luxury; it's an essential part of self-love, and we explore how to incorporate rest into your routine without feeling guilty or less than. Key topics covered: Why self-worth shouldn’t be tied to your physical capabilities or appearance. How to embrace your body with compassion and acceptance, even when it's not functioning the way you’d like. Strategies for releasing the guilt surrounding your limitations, and why doing so is a form of self-compassion. The importance of rest in the healing process and how taking breaks is an act of self-care, not weakness. And I walk you through some simple exercises for building a loving relationship with your body. Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, I explore why self-love can be so difficult and why it’s okay to take a break when you need to. It’s normal to struggle with loving yourself, and sometimes, it’s important to lean on others for support. I’m here to remind you that it’s okay if you can’t love yourself today — I’m here to love you when you can’t. Key topics covered: Self-love is a worthy journey, but it’s not always easy Why you shouldn’t just put on a happy face and pretend to love yourself It’s OK to pause, just don’t stop Even if you don’t love you right now, I do – and the importance of seeking help Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, I dive into the power of focusing on how you want to feel for the year ahead. It’s not about resolutions or doing more—it's about being and embracing the emotions that will guide you to a fulfilling year. I explore the importance of loving yourself exactly as you are and how that mindset can be a game-changer for your well-being. I’ve also got a super fun (potentially a little scary) exercise for you to try: writing yourself a love letter. It’s time to get cozy with some self-love, write down all the things you adore about yourself, and set the tone for an amazing year ahead. Key topics are:   Why focusing on how you want to feel (rather than what you need to do) can transform your mindset The benefits of self-love and accepting yourself just as you are And a step-by-step guide on how to write yourself a love letter (I promise it’s worth a try) Whether you're a fan of self-care practices or completely new to them, this episode will inspire you to look inward and embrace your amazing self—just as you are. Plus, you’ll leave with a fun new ritual that’s perfect for kicking off a year full of love and joy. Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, host Jenn Williams talks about the idea of self-love and why it’s an important step in the healing process. She talks about starting off the new year with a practice of self-love, and offers the following mantras as a way to begin your practice: I am enough, and I am deserving of all the love and happiness life has to offer. I choose to love myself today, no matter what. Every day, I grow in love, acceptance, and compassion for myself. I am worthy of rest, healing, and all the love I give to others. I treat myself with kindness and patience, knowing that I am enough. I am not my illness; I am love, strength, and resilience. I embrace every part of my journey with grace and self-compassion. I love and care for myself, no matter what my body is going through. My value is infinite, and I choose to nurture myself with compassion. Tune in for the episodes the rest of this month, and subscribe to the newsletter, to learn more practices and tools to help you build a deeper sense of self-love.   Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, host Jenn Williams takes a deep dive into the transformative power of joy and how it differs from happiness. Whether you're seeking ways to improve your mental and physical health or simply want to bring more meaning and fulfillment into your life, this episode has you covered. You’ll learn: ·        The differences between joy and happiness, and why joy is important to long-term health ·        How joy can benefit you both physically and mentally ·        And Jenn walks you through a simple exercise you can try to build a “joy plan”   Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the podcast to help others discover how they can build a life filled with joy! This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, host Jenn Williams gives an overview of what’s to come in the future with the Club. There are some exciting things brewing on the horizon and she wants you to know all about them. She discusses: ·        Why the Club was created and what her vision is for the future of the Club ·        The upcoming Joy Muck Club membership program (to be launched some time next year) and all the amazing benefits you’ll receive as a member ·        Courses she has planned and more   Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

In this episode of the Joy Muck Club podcast, host Jenn Williams dives into the potential hazards of the holiday season and how to keep things healthier and more joyful. There are lots of stressors during the holidays for everyone, but there are so many other little potential speed bumps when you have a chronic illness. And, if you’re not careful, they can really compromise your health and ruin your holidays. So let’s talk about how to keep ourselves as happy and healthy as possible while still enjoying the festivities. Things we’ll learn: ·        Why boundaries are extra important at the holidays and how to communicate your needs in a loving and healthy way ·        Tackling the dreaded food issues: how to ask for what you need and stick to your diet ·        Different ways to destress the gift giving process ·        How not to overextend yourself ·        And how to avoid feeling obligated to things that aren’t healthy for you   Send me an email with any questions or comments Subscribe to the Joy Muck Club newsletter for even more great info on how to lead your healthiest and most joyful life If you’d like to join in the community, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

Welcome! In this episode you’ll get to know a bit about me, this podcast, why I started it, and how it can help bring more joy into your life. I’m really excited to start this community to help people with chronic illness learn to regain the playful sparkle of life and learn to be their own person, separate from their illness. I hope these episodes will inspire you, make you laugh, and help you grow. Send me an email with any thoughts, questions, or stories you’d like to share. Subscribe here to the Joy Muck Club newsletter, a free newsletter designed for people with chronic illness who want to cultivate a more joyful life. It’s packed with lots of great info, activities, and insights on how to build a more resilient and peaceful mindset, how to incorporate more play in your life, and how to make this the most joyful life you can have. Join the Joy Muck Club community on Instagram and Facebook. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joymuckclub.substack.com