52 Weeks, 52 Activities for Couples | A Year of Connection and Growth | Week 3 | Laughter

Tickle Your Funny Bone: The Ultimate Guide to a Couples Laughter Challenge

Laughter is truly the best medicine, and sharing it with your spouse can strengthen your bond in incredible ways. A "Laughter Challenge" is a fun and simple way to add some joy and playfulness into your relationship. It's all about creating situations that naturally lead to laughter, fostering connection, and reminding you both why you enjoy each other's company so much.

Why A Laughter Challenge Matters

In the hustle and bustle of daily life, it's easy to forget to simply have fun. We, as a society, have become too sensitive, too serious, and too emotional. We don’t smile or simply have fun and enjoy the moment. A laughter challenge can help you:

• Strengthen your bond: Shared laughter releases endorphins, which promote feelings of happiness and connection.
• Reduce stress: Laughter is a powerful stress reliever, helping to lower cortisol levels and promote relaxation.
• Improve communication: When you're laughing together, you create a positive and open atmosphere, making it easier to communicate and connect on a deeper level which brings you closer together.
• Boost intimacy: Laughter can create a sense of shared vulnerability and playfulness, which can enhance intimacy.
• Create lasting memories: You'll create fun and memorable experiences that you can cherish for years to come.

Ideas to Get the Giggles Going

Here are some ideas to get you started on your laughter challenge:

1. Funny Videos and Shows:

• Comedy stand-up specials: Choose a comedian you both enjoy and settle in for a night of laughs.
• Funny animal videos: These are a classic for a reason! Who can resist adorable animals doing silly things?
• Viral videos: Explore the world of funny internet videos – there's something for everyone!
• Comedies: Pick a lighthearted comedy movie or TV show that you both haven't seen before or in a while.
• Funny Movie Marathon: Rent or stream a series of hilarious movies.
• Themed Date: Dress up in silly costumes or plan a date around a funny theme, like "Dumb and Dumber”: movies with intentionally unintelligent or goofy characters, or "80s Prom.”

2. Games and Activities:

• "Try Not to Laugh" challenge: One person tells jokes or makes funny faces while the other tries not to laugh. The first one to crack a smile loses.
• Improvisation games: Try simple improv games like "Yes, and..." or create silly scenarios to act out.
• Charades or Pictionary: These classic party games can bring out your competitive and silly sides.
• Read funny stories or jokes aloud: Find some funny stories or joke books and take turns reading them to each other.
• Playing the Dozens: for a fun twist, you can tell lighthearted jokes about each other's past, focusing on those 'what were you thinking’, or ‘that had me scratching my head’ stories, but keeping it friendly and respectful. No 'yo mama' jokes. Who knows, there may be a comedian hiding in plain sight.

3. Reliving Funny Memories:

• Look through old photos and videos: Reminiscing about funny moments from your past is a surefire way to spark laughter.
• Share funny stories from your childhood: Sharing embarrassing or funny stories from your past can create a sense of shared vulnerability and connection.
• Recreate funny moments: Try recreating funny photos or videos from your past for a hilarious throwback. Pick a decade like the 70’s and see who looks the most authentic. I’m sure that will get the laughter started.

4. Out and About:

• Attend a comedy show: Experience live comedy and enjoy the energy of the crowd.
• Improv Class: Take a ‘spur of the moment’ class together and learn to be more spontaneous and playful.
• Go to a playground: Even as adults, playgrounds can be fun. Swinging, and riding on the merry go ‘round can bring out the inner child.

5. Silly Challenges and Pranks (Keep it lighthearted and respectful!):

• Funny face contests: See who can make the silliest or most expressive face.
• Voice impressions: Try imitating famous people or cartoon characters.
• Harmless pranks: Play lighthearted pranks on each other (make sure they're in good fun and won't cause any hurt feelings). Proceed with caution and ensure your spouse is comfortable with this.

6. Everyday Fun:

• Create a "Funny Moments" Jar: Throughout the week, write down funny things that happen and put them in a jar. On a rainy day, pull out the jar and have a good laugh together.
• Learn a Silly Dance: Find a funny dance tutorial online and try to learn it together.
• Start a "Joke of the Day" Tradition: Each day, share a funny joke with your spouse.
• Play a Silly Game: Try a silly game like "Would You Rather?" or "Never Have I Ever."
• Give Each Other Silly Nicknames: Come up with funny nicknames for each other and use them throughout the day.
• Scroll Through Auto-Correct Text Fails: Go online and search for ‘auto-correct text fails’ for messages that are sure to make you laugh. They are hilarious!

Tips for a Successful Laughter Challenge

• Create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere: Choose a setting where you both feel comfortable and can let loose.
• Be present. Put away your phones and other distractions and focus on each other.
• Be grateful. Take time to appreciate the good things in your life and in your relationship.
• Be spontaneous and playful: Don't overthink it – just go with the flow and have fun.
• Don't take yourselves too seriously: Embrace the silliness and don't be afraid to look foolish.
• Respect each other's boundaries: Make sure any pranks or jokes are lighthearted and won't offend or upset your spouse.
• Make it a regular thing: Incorporate laughter into your routine to keep the spark alive and strengthen your bond.

A laughter challenge is a fantastic way to reconnect with each other, relieve stress, and create lasting memories. So, go ahead, tickle your funny bone and enjoy the joy of shared laughter!

Remember:

• Laughter is contagious. So let your laughter fill your home and your hearts.
• Be present, playful, and grateful.
• Express your appreciation for each other.
• Let the love of each other be your guiding light!

As we conclude our journey through week three of 52 weeks of activities, remember that cultivating "oneness" is an ongoing process. It requires intentionality, effort, and a willingness to grow together.

May these activities inspire you to deepen your connection, strengthen your bond, and create a marriage that reflects the divine love and unity exemplified throughout the holy scriptures. We hope you have a joyful week!

Shalom, and may your journey as a couple be filled with love, joy, and “oneness.”