S I L L Y !!
Now there's a FUN word! Say it a couple of times. See!! Can you even say that word AND be grumpy at the same time? I don't think so!
To add to the silliness around here, today I have a special guest who will share four strategies she uses to bring out the silly! Please welcome Joy Tanksley, from Being Joy. I've only recently gotten to know Joy…and that name, Joy, is so fitting for her!! Just look below at that FUN picture…now doesn't that have JOY (and SILLY) written all over it!!
Really, check out her site – it is chock-full of pure fun (like her dancing!!!).
Today, Joy is not only wearing her bra in a different spot…she is also giving us all some great ways to get our own SILLY on!
Four Surefire Strategies for Getting Seriously Silly
Draw a crazy picture,
Write a nutty poem,
Sing a mumble-gumble song,
Whistle through your comb.
Do a loony-goony dance
'Cross the kitchen floor,
Put something silly in the world
That ain't been there before.
~ Shel Silverstein
Silliness is a virtue that is often overlooked and highly underrated. But I had the good fortune of learning its value from my incredibly silly mother. It would totally embarrass her if I told you that she would often perform the “gas ballet”, doing grande plies and dramatic leaps while making the unmistakable sounds of flatulence with her mouth. So I won’t tell you she did that. Suffice it say that silly is part of my pedigree, and, in my expert opinion, we could all benefit from being a little more absurd, foolish, and ridiculous on a regular basis.
Here are four of my personal favorite ways to get seriously silly:
1. The Jelly Butt Game
This must be done in a public place and with a person who is easily embarrassed. Without any warning, begin gently swaying back and forth and bending your knees. Exclaim, “Uh oh! Oh no! It happened! I have Jelly Butt!” At this point, move your body as if your rear end has turned into complete jelly. It’s best if you fall into your companion for support. But watch out! Jelly Butt is contagious. Your friend might someday return the favor by having a surprise attack of Jelly Butt at your expense.
2. Bark Like a Dog
If you haven’t tried this, it’s a must. I can’t tell you how good this feels. Let go of all inhibitions. Get LOUD. Try different types of barks – from yippy to bellowing. Throw your head back and bark your head off! This one is delicious when done alone but is also great with a group.
3. Foot as Telephone
The next time someone’s foot is within reach, make a ringing noise like a telephone. Then answer their foot. They will be totally caught off guard, and will likely begin laughing hysterically. Try to keep a straight face and carry on a one-sided conversation, such as, “Hello? Yes, this is she. No, I am not interested in taking a survey, thank you very much. Well, there’s no need to get snippy!”
4. Wear Underclothes on your Head
This is a classic for a reason. It’s pricelessly funny, and especially so when combined with a goofy dance. I’m a big fan of bras worn on the head, with the strap going down around the chin. Underwear works, too. And it doesn’t have to be yours.
I challenge you to try at least one of these techniques and see how it makes you feel. As the famous philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein said, “If people did not sometimes do silly things, nothing intelligent would ever get done.”
Joy brings the silly, and all sorts of other great stuff at her insightful and fun blog, Being Joy. Check it out today!
Silly Alert! This weekend I'll be in New York City, with The Levity Project, celebrating World Laughter Day! And it's not too late to join in. The more the merrier (and sillier!)!! To register for this free event, click HERE, or visit the link in the sidebar.