(Newswire.net — August 31, 2021) — As they get older, most people begin to worry that their mind might not be as sharp as it once was. Between the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be difficult to find time to work toward enhancing ourselves. However, if you dedicate yourself to one of these hobbies you can be sure to gain some mental benefits in the long run as you gently exercise your brain.
Computer Programming
Computer programming is certainly not for the average person, but those that enjoy challenging themselves and building their skills will find this hobby to be incredibly rewarding and it may even turn into a career in the future. This field involves writing computer code for new programs, databases, or software.
There are countless free resources online that you can utilize to get started like Codeacademy or Codewars. The best thing about programming is the instant gratification that comes with solving a problem or putting a new skill to use in real-time.
Traditional Card Games
Traditional card games like poker, blackjack, or Texas Hold’em are excellent for those that are looking to boost their brain through a fun activity. While some may consider poker a simplistic game, there are actually some incredibly deep mechanics involved. First, there are all of the different Poker Hand Rankings that affect the value of the cards you are dealt. After that, there is the complex betting system and all of the mind games that go with it.
Once you get to the spreadsheet of different odds and probabilities, you quickly realize this game is not as simple as it seems. Fortunately, if you decide to pursue a card game hobby, you will quickly find that there is a dedicated community that will help you learn the finer points of the different games.
Sudoku
For a pure logic-based activity that is surprisingly addictive, solving Sudoku puzzles is a great hobby to get into. You may be familiar with Sudoku as the puzzle that comes in the daily paper. The objective of these puzzles is to fill out 9×9 grids so that each column and row contains only the numbers 1-9 without repeating. It is very simple once you pick it up, but you’ll quickly find yourself unable to put these puzzles down.
Video Games
Video games? Yes, while your parents may have called them a waste of time, the effects of video games on your brain have long been studied and the results are mostly positive. There are few activities as engaging for your brain as playing video games as they get almost all of your senses involved and working together. Throughout a video gaming session, you are solving problems and training your hand-eye coordination.
Physical Fitness
Physical fitness is great for a healthy brain regardless of what you choose to do. Whether you enjoy yoga, running, weightlifting or sports, studies have shown that these physical activities will get your blood flowing and quickly turn your brain on. If you have been out of the gym for a while, don’t worry because there are many ways to get back in shape in a healthy manner. Taking care of yourself means taking care of your brain and your body together.
Practice an Instrument
Music has been proven to have brain-expanding properties as well. Sure, learning to read and write sheet music is a challenge itself but it goes beyond that. Learning musical scales, timing, and coordinating your brain and fingers together can have some great long-term effects on your mind.
Brain Training Apps
Of course, there is always a high-tech solution in today’s world. You always have your smartphone in your pocket so why not put it to good use? There are some excellent free and paid mobile applications that are great for you to practice with for 15 minutes at a time. These apps are loaded with lessons and activities to help you practice everything from your mathematical skills to your reading and comprehension, or even learning a new language. You’ll never go wrong investing in yourself, and these apps are a great way to get started.