Buzz
7 Minutes in Heaven, a popular party game among teenagers, entails two individuals spending 7 minutes together in a secluded, dimly lit space. During this duration, participants have the liberty to engage in various activities of their choosing. While some opt for private conversations, others may explore more intimate interactions, such as kissing or making out. Regardless of the approach, it's crucial to uphold mutual respect and refrain from actions that compromise comfort boundaries.
Steps
Playing the Game
Prepare the Game Setting. Designate a small, enclosed area within your residence for the game's execution. This space typically lacks illumination, although a well-lit alternative is viable. Optional seating arrangements may include chairs, although they are not essential for gameplay.
- Potential venues for the game encompass closets, bathrooms, or laundry rooms, among others.
- To ensure darkness, consider removing light bulbs from fixtures within the chosen space.
- Prioritize safety by eliminating potential hazards from the area, particularly in light-deprived settings.
- To prevent time monitoring, consider eliminating clocks, including those on cell phones and watches, from the gaming area.
Assemble the players. Traditionally, this game involves an equal number of boys and girls, although variations exist. A group of 10 to 14 participants is common, but the game can accommodate as few as 6 players.
- You might choose friends from school, your neighborhood, or fellow campmates if you're at camp.
Outline the rules to the participants. With the room set up and players ready, it's crucial to explain the game's regulations. Since there are various interpretations of 7 Minutes in Heaven, clarity is key. Typically, the rules encompass:
- Selecting two individuals randomly.
- Directing the chosen pair to a private space for 7 minutes. Ensure the door is closed!
- Releasing the pair from the room after the allocated time.
- You might establish additional 'house rules,' such as lighting conditions or the exclusion of watches and cell phones from the room.
- To promote comfort, consider making participation voluntary for all players.
Implement a random selection process. This method determines the individuals secluded for their 7 minutes in heaven. Options include spinning a bottle or drawing names from a hat. To ensure diversity, you could organize the selection by gender.
- To divide by gender, spin the bottle separately for boys and girls. The individuals indicated by the bottle in each group proceed to the room.
- If using a container, designate one for girls and one for boys. Each round, select one name from each container.
Commence the game. Each round involves two individuals in the room for 7 minutes. The duration of play is flexible, but alternative activities like a board game or cards can entertain other players while awaiting the conclusion of each 7-minute session.
- Utilizing a timer with an attention-grabbing alert, such as a siren, enhances the game's ambiance and aids in time management.
- Once the timer expires, signal the end of the session by knocking on the door and informing the participants it's time to exit. Subsequently, select a new pair using the random selection method.
- A dramatic reveal at the conclusion of the 7 minutes can heighten anticipation. Consider swiftly opening the door as the timer reaches zero.
Respect Boundaries
Establish clear boundaries in advance. Before starting the game, it's essential to agree on boundaries with your partner. Without clear rules, there's a risk of miscommunication and discomfort.
- Consider stating, 'Let's start with talking only,' or 'I'm open to kissing, but let's take it slow.'
- To set firm limits, you might say, 'Kissing is fine, but I'm not comfortable with further physical contact.'
Express discomfort promptly. If something makes you uneasy during the game, communicate your feelings directly to your partner. Promptly addressing discomfort is crucial to ensuring a safe and respectful experience.
- For instance, if touched inappropriately, assertively state, 'I'm uncomfortable with that touch.'
- Although challenging, saying 'No' is crucial to maintaining personal boundaries. Never engage in activities that make you uncomfortable.
Seek consent before introducing new actions. Prior to attempting any new gestures, such as holding hands or physical contact, always obtain consent from your partner. Seeking consent prevents unintentional boundary violations and promotes mutual respect.
- Simply asking, 'May I hold your hand?' or 'Is it okay if I touch you like this?' takes only a moment.
Resisting Peer Pressure
Pause and reflect. When faced with peer pressure, take a moment to gather your thoughts and take a deep, calming breath. Emotions can escalate in pressure situations, leading to decisions that may not align with your values. Reflecting allows for a composed response and self-awareness.
- Ask yourself, 'What kind of person do I aspire to be? Would that person engage in this activity?' If the answer is no, it's best to refrain.
Express your feelings clearly. Despite group dynamics, sharing your personal sentiments can foster connections with friends or other players. Shifting from a collective to an individual perspective helps others relate to your concerns.
- You might convey, 'I enjoy our time together, but I'm not comfortable participating in this game.'
Offer an explanation. While honesty is typically preferable, providing an excuse can be useful if others insist on your participation. It doesn't have to be elaborate; a simple reason suffices:
- 'I've been feeling under the weather lately and wouldn't want to risk anyone else's health.'
- 'I'm a bit embarrassed, but I have a minor mouth ulcer that's bothering me, so I'll pass on playing.'
Propose an alternative activity. Numerous group games offer enjoyable alternatives, potentially appealing to others more than 7 Minutes in Heaven. Options include Twister, charades, Pictionary, UNO, and more.
- Consider selecting games known to be favored by others in the group for a higher chance of acceptance.
Tips
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Keep the atmosphere light and enjoyable. The game should be fun, not embarrassing or inappropriate.
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Encourage discussion about the 7-minute experience, or suggest that participants jot down their thoughts afterward.
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Avoid pressuring the players after the 7 minutes. Give them space and time to process the experience.
The advice provided here reflects the real-life insights of Mytour readers like yourself. If you have a valuable tip to share with Mytour, please share it below.
- If you do agree to participate, keep it light when individuals exit the designated area. A bit of playful banter is acceptable, but then let it go! Avoid causing embarrassment or spreading rumors about other players.
Cautions
- Avoid engaging in any behavior during the activity that might discomfort the other person. All actions should be consensual.
Essentials
- Dimly lit space
- Timer (or smartphone)
