Puzzles Change Your Brain

Stress LESS through Mindful Living®

Puzzles Change Your Brain

Puzzles are a powerful tool that reduces stress, increase your memory and help low the aging process of the brain. Research suggests puzzles and brain teasers may ward off dementia and Alzheimer’s, as well as improve overall brain and memory function. Working puzzles stimulate the brain to release dopamine, a neurotransmitter in the brain. Dopamine helps improve memory, puts you in a good mood and as a result, increases your concentration.

Puzzles Reduce Stress

I was always envious of people who enjoyed doing crossword puzzles. Players always looked peaceful, happy and smart. I never thought I was smart enough or had the patience to do crosswords. One of my goals was to begin doing crossword puzzles, and now I love it. Crossword puzzles reduce your stress by keeping your focus on the puzzle and away from your stressors or worries. Crossword puzzles are challenging and make you feel a sense of accomplishment.

Puzzles Online and In A Box

Jigsaw puzzles are a very different kind of challenge for the brain than crosswords. As I grew up, there was always a small table with a jigsaw puzzle on it when we visited grandparents, relatives, and neighbors. When we walked into a home, we either looked for the table or grabbed a jigsaw puzzle box and began to play. It was fun to work with others as a team to put it together. We would talk, laugh and snack on the television or radio on in the background. I remember how peaceful and fun doing this was.

De-stress, relax and have fun doing an old fashioned jigsaw puzzle with your family and friends. You can find tons of fun puzzles at the App Store. You can take them with you everywhere you go. I grow my brain while waiting for the doctor, on public transportation, and before I go to bed. I have several I keep on my iPhone and iPad. Challenge yourself by doing a short crossword. Reduce your stress, slow aging and discover a new aspect of your life through a puzzle.