Mind Games: When we search for the right word to fill in a crossword puzzle, we use multiple areas of the brain.
4 Mind Games For Memory Enhancement
Mental games Help Strengthen The Brain And Memory
Mind Games, According to Yahoo Life, Dakari Quimby, a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at USC Keck School of Medicine, explains: “Brain games and memory exercises stimulate neural pathways and enhance neuroplasticity, or the brain’s ability to change and learn. This helps strengthen neural connections and can reinforce memory skills and capabilities.”
Quimby says that engaging with cognitive challenges also boosts brain function and may delay memory decline.
Dr. Gary Small, head of psychiatry at Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey, adds that many studies indicate that simple memory exercises, like certain games, can improve age-related memory issues.
1. Chess
Mind Games, Quimby states that chess isn’t just for professionals—it’s excellent for boosting strategic thinking and problem-solving skills. Chess activates the brain as players need to remember rules, track the positions of pieces, and anticipate opponents’ moves.
2. Card Games
Card games like poker also help keep the brain active and enhance memory. These games are not only fun but, according to Quimby, also require players to remember cards and guess the opponent’s hand, thus helping to boost memory.
3. Crossword Puzzles
Mind Games, Solving crossword puzzles can be challenging, but that very challenge is key to keeping the brain sharp. A 2022 study showed that doing crossword puzzles can improve memory and prevent brain shrinkage in those with mild cognitive impairment.
When searching for the right word for a crossword puzzle, we engage multiple areas of the brain. According to Harvard Health, “The clues in crosswords often require you to connect ideas you never thought of together. This feature of crosswords activates wide areas of the cerebral cortex and stimulates new connections in the brain. The hippocampus remembers these new connections, strengthening both your hippocampus and cerebral cortex.”
4. Math Puzzles Or Sudoku
Mind Games, Number games like Sudoku require analytical skills and help improve pattern recognition and problem-solving abilities, essential for strengthening short-term memory.
Mind Games, A 2019 study showed that engaging in mentally stimulating activities, like number puzzles, could improve brain function in old age.
Striking A Balance
Mind Games, The most important thing with these games is balance. Play them for fun and enjoyment, so you always want to come back to them. Avoid choosing games that are too hard or too easy, as they can become tedious and fail to stimulate brain circuits.
How Often To Do Memory Exercises?
Mind Games, Engaging the brain for even 15 to 30 minutes can gradually improve memory, and Quimby emphasizes that the key is “consistency.”
The more you repeat and maintain these exercises, the better the outcome for the brain. Variety is also important; you can do several mental challenges that you enjoy. Quimby says, “Switching up the types of exercises keeps the brain engaged and makes this process enjoyable and beneficial.”
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