A-MUSINGS

Yesterday, my kids were dancing through the house singing a song called Bananaphone. It’s a little ditty that is one part “The Name Game,” and another part puns with nonsensical lyrics that would make Dr. Seuss proud. Released years ago by Raffi, beloved children’s entertainer from recent decades, the song is still a big hit with elementary school kids.  

So my kids singing Bananaphone wouldn’t be that odd except that this is 2010…and they are teenagers.  So why are they singing  this goofy song despite their advancement into adolescence?  Because it’s silly and fun.  And besides, the song has universal a-peel (ouch, couldn’t help myself). We’ve all done it…picked up a banana and talked into it like a phone. You haven’t? Really? Give it a try. If you are a noob to the world of silly, you might want to try this in the privacy of your kitchen before you start placing banana calls in your local supermarket.

We all need a little more silly in our lives.  The word “silly” has its roots in Middle English, where silly or sely meant happy and innocent, and that is what silly should be all about. Being silly can actually be beneficial in the proper situations:

• When we act silly, we are free to express ourselves without any social, physical or intellectual constraints.
• It’s fun for all ages (and helps adults reconnect with their childlike — not childish — side).
• It helps relieve stress.
• Being silly can improve your mood.
• It makes you (and others) smile… maybe it can even cheer someone up.
• Being silly with a friend or your child builds a unique, warm bond.
• There have even been studies suggesting that being silly can improve your immune system.

Sometimes as we grow older, Serious (the polar opposite of Silly), takes control. Fight the urge to be stodgy and “grown-up.” Let Silly reign.  At least some times. It  might be hard to be silly, especially for people who are basically quiet or introverted, like me.  But take it step at a time.  You don’t have to launch directly into armpit farts or hanging a spoon off the end of your nose. You can start with a little interpretive dance, make funny faces or create strange, yet entertaining, sound effects.  There is no goal in being silly. Just let loose, relax, and have fun. Try being silly once a week and work yourself up to once a day.  You’ll be happier, and maybe even healthier. Let’s start now. Come on, everybody. Let’s sing Bananaphone! “Ring, ring, ring, ring, ring, ring, ring, ring, bananaphone! Boop boop-a-doop-a-doo! Ring, ring, ring, ring…”