The Ultimate Guide to the Light As a Feather Stiff As a Board Game

Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board is a classic game that has been played at sleepovers for decades. Known for its spooky undertones and fun, the game has become a rite of passage for many children and teenagers. If you’re looking to learn or reintroduce this thrilling activity at your next gathering, this guide will provide everything you need to know about playing Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board.

What You Need

Before diving into the game, it’s important to ensure you have the right setting and participants. Here’s what you will need:

Participants: Gather a group of friends; ideally, you will want at least five players. One person will be the “spirit,” and the rest will be “lifters.”
Space: An open area, preferably on the floor or a soft surface, where players can lie down comfortably. It’s best to play in low light to enhance the spooky atmosphere.
A Storyteller: One person will narrate or introduce the game, often leading the part where the “cause of death” is declared.

Setting Up the Game

Prepare the Atmosphere: Dim the lights and create a cozy, eerie environment. You might want to play some soft, haunting music in the background to set the mood.
Choose the ‘Spirit’: Select one volunteer to lie down flat on their back. This person is the “spirit” of the game.
Position the ‘Lifters’: Gather around the spirit. Each lifter should extend their fingers from underneath to create a supportive layer, positioned beneath the spirit’s body. A group of four to five lifters is ideal, as this will make lifting easier and more effective.

Rules of the Game

Once everything is set, it’s time to officially start the game. Here are the steps to follow:

The Invocation: The storyteller begins by saying the phrase “Light as a feather, stiff as a board” multiple times. This sets the tone and intention of the game.
The Cause of Death: As part of the game, the storyteller can recite whimsical or spooky “causes of death,” perhaps made up on the spot, or drawn from ghost stories. This part is essential as it adds to the eerie ambience of the game, drawing the group into the experience.
The Lift: On the count of three, the lifters must simultaneously start to lift the spirit using only their fingertips. This is where the fun begins! The goal is to lift the spirit off the ground, creating the illusion that they are weightless.

Tips for Success

Believe in the Magic: For the game to work effectively, everyone must get into the spirit (pun intended). If the lifters doubt they can lift the spirit, it may not work as well.
Practice: If you’re unsure about the lifting process, consider a practice run. It’s usually more about the teamwork and trust than pure physical strength.
Safety First: Be cautious during lifting. Ensure that no one gets hurt during the process and that the spirit is lying on a safe surface.
Have Fun: The primary focus of the game should be enjoyment. Keep it light-hearted, even if you’re trying to be spooky. The laughter and camaraderie are what make this game memorable.

Conclusion

Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board is a delightful blend of fun and thrill, perfect for a sleepover or party. With a little preparation and a willingness to embrace the whimsical and eerie, you can create lasting memories with your friends. Remember, the most important part of any game is to relax, enjoy the atmosphere, and have fun together. So gather your friends, dim the lights, and let the magic unfold!