During the Covid shutdown of 2020, many of us discovered puzzling as a way of keeping busy in a time of stress. Puzzling surged in popularity as people of all ages, young and old, enjoyed doing puzzles. Part of puzzles’ popularity is due to the fact that there is a huge variety of types of puzzles, which allows people of all ages and abilities to enjoy puzzles.
There are many different types of puzzles, from jigsaw puzzles to sudoku to crossword puzzles. If you haven’t ever tried doing puzzles, you should consider it. Puzzling is an affordable activity that has many benefits, and you may find a new type of puzzle that you enjoy doing.
Puzzles as Way of Dealing with Stress
Many people find that doing puzzles is relaxing. Puzzles can offer a sense of control because the job of completing the puzzle is totally in your control. Doing a puzzle also helps satisfy the human urge to accomplish and fulfill goals. In completing a puzzle, you can gain a sense of accomplishment, and this makes us feel good. Not only that, but studies have shown that when doing a jigsaw puzzle, each piece that you find and add to the puzzle gives your brain a little hit of dopamine, which rewards and relaxes your brain. All of this can help reduce stress and bring about a more relaxed and happy mindset.
Mental Stimulation
Many adults suffer from cognitive decline as they age. Doing puzzles and mind games that stimulate and challenge you can be a good exercise for your brain and boost your cognitive functioning. Puzzles provide a workout for your mind by engaging different cognitive functions. Puzzles require concentration, short term memory, and they require your brain to solve a new problem or challenge. Puzzles also stimulate your executive function and processing speed. In this way, doing a puzzle is a good mental exercise.
Social Activity
Puzzling can be a social activity. It can be fun to do a crossword puzzle with a group. Jigsaw puzzles are also fun to do with others and can be enjoyed by people of all ages. Consider doing a jigsaw puzzle with your grandchildren, adult children, or a friend. Studies show that socializing is important for seniors, in terms of both physical and mental health, and a group puzzle is a great opportunity to socialize. Doing a puzzle with someone can combat the feelings of loneliness and isolation that many seniors feel.
In addition to these benefits, doing puzzles is fun, so try doing a puzzle today and ask a friend to join you!