Stuff 136: Sharing

By JJ Atwell

I’m Not an Expert

I’ve said this before, but it’s probably time to repeat myself: I don’t claim to be an expert on anything CD-related. I have no special training in any of the related disciplines that would qualify me as an expert. So why do I write Stuff? Because I enjoy sharing—and because writing is a bit therapeutic for me.

All I have to offer are my own experiences and a little research. I’ve now been sharing my Stuff with you for more than three years. Some of you may be tired of reading posts in which I repeat certain themes. Still, I revisit those themes in the hope that something I write will help other CDs come to terms with—and enjoy—this experience.

Finally, I should emphasize that I write from my perspective as a crossdresser. I’m not trans, and I have no desire to transition. I know I’m a guy, and my everyday life is a guy’s life. I enjoy the occasional foray into a woman’s world, but I know I’m only visiting. That perspective may or may not apply to you, so please keep it in mind as you read my thoughts.

With that said, let’s move on to some odds and ends.

Be Happy

I hope dressing is a fun experience for you. Does getting dressed make you happy, or does it cause you stress?

Chronic stress can affect both our physical and emotional health in many ways. You can ask your online assistant to explain some of those effects or, if you have specific health concerns, consult a medical professional. Generally speaking, stress is something we should try to avoid—or at least minimize—in our lives.

Happiness can also influence our health. Although the connection is complex, people who feel emotionally well may be more inclined to exercise, sleep properly and take better care of themselves. In that sense, happiness can be a form of self-help.

Both happiness and stress can be influenced by how you approach dressing. If you can enjoy getting dressed, it may put a smile on your face and give you a more positive outlook on the world. I often read that many of us use dressing as a way to relieve stress. It can help us feel more comfortable and secure. The more you believe in yourself—whatever your guise—the happier you are likely to be

Ebb and Flow

How many of you find that your urge to dress ebbs and flows? I would guess just about everyone. I know it certainly happens to me.

From time to time, I’ve even passed up a rare opportunity to dress simply because I wasn’t in the mood. Hmmm—might that mean something? Is the urge fading with age? No, that can’t be the answer because I’m feeling the urge right now!

Perhaps getting dressed sometimes seems like too much trouble for too little payoff. I suppose it depends on the level of dressing involved. Am I merely putting on foundation garments and throwing something over them, or am I going all out to create a convincing feminine presentation?

For me, spending two and a half hours achieving a look that is good enough for going out in public is a lot of work if I must take it all off 30 minutes later. On the other hand, if I’m staying home, spending 15 minutes putting on my shapewear seems like a fair trade for half an hour of being dressed.

Does that sound familiar? I’d love to hear what determines whether dressing is worth the effort for you.

I’ll Be Back

I’ll keep finding more Stuff to write about. Meanwhile, I welcome your comments and suggestions here on Stana’s page or by email at Jenn6nov at-sign gmail dot com.

Wearing Shein

English comedian Dick Emery