Jeans and No Lipstick: Busy Woman’s Guide to Stress Management

How many labels do you carry around every day? Employee, boss, mother, wife, daughter, caregiver, leader — likely too many to count! How often do you get to drop all of them and just be you? If it is not often, I suggest some “Jeans and No Lipstick” time with other women!

Something powerful happens when women come together without any pretenses. As an intern during college, I remember having a day designated as “jeans and no lipstick” to get together and build our team. It was an inspired idea. Gone was the hierarchy, we weren’t boss or employee, student or teacher– or any other label. We were just us – just individual women. The conversation and comfort in sharing was so much different from any other occasion.

Think about it. If you leave behind the job and the family and any “status” (just for a while) isn’t it easier to connect on a real level? Connecting positively with other women is a significant way to decrease your stress level and reducing your risk of heart disease.

Here are two great examples of “jeans and no lipstick” events. First at “Chick Day” hosted by Vita Plus. Dairy farm women from across Wisconsin met for a day of education, support, and fun. Often times, I need to work with an audience until they are ready to be open about the challenges and stresses they face – not so here.
Almost immediately they were shouting out answers, teasing each other (kindly) and laughing together at what life can bring. We all had a great time.

Autumn Adventures, hosted by Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast was another very open and fun event. Girl Scout leaders and adult volunteers spent the day in workshops being energized for the coming year. After a whole day of hanging out, I had no trouble getting them up and dancing together!

When was the last time you laughed really hard? When was the last time you danced just because it is fun? When was the last time you got to be just you?

Get some friends together for a “jeans and no lipstick” occasion. Don’t worry you won’t need much to get going. A cup of coffee, a glass of wine, a walk in the autumn leaves – just get together relax, talk and laugh. Nurturing your relationship with other

If you are planning a women’s wellness event, think about how to incorporate a “jeans and no lipstick” atmosphere.

Step out of your labels and spend some time recharging!

Oh, and don’t forget to invite me!

Tell us how you get “Jeans and No Lipstick” time! (leave a comment below)

Get valuable information in Eliz’s new book, The Busy Woman’s Guide to a Healthy Heart, or in her Award Winning Blog.

Eliz Greene survived a massive heart attack while seven-months pregnant with twins, struggled to lose the 80 pounds gained during her pregnancy, and searched for a way to hold on to the perspective and passion she found in her near-death experience. Drawing on her background as an adaptive movement specialist, Eliz developed simple strategies and tips to help other busy women be more active, eat better and manage your stress. Find out more at www.EmbraceYourHeart.com