Nowadays, we are surrounded by numerous forms of entertainment. And virtually any of them is available on the Internet, including, of course, online games.
They are a great way to forget about everyday worries and have fun – right? But there’s a little-known benefit of online games: they are also a great mental workout!
If you’ve never been interested in playing video games, these facts may open the door to a new and enjoyable activity for your pastime routine.
1. Stress? No, thanks!
Nothing goes how you planned, some kids outside won’t stop screaming, and the errands seem to be piling up? Just 20 minutes of gameplay can improve your mood during a hectic day.
Sounds too good to be true? But it isn’t! Even multiple scientific studies confirm it.
As you know, dopamine, the happiness hormone, is our friend. And cortisol, the stress hormone, is a bitter enemy. Video games will release dopamine and lower cortisol, which will reduce stress.
Stress relief will help let go of the negatives and give your brain the opportunity to concentrate on important things.
2. Skill sharpening
Certain online games can improve your analytical and logical skills. I find those that involve strategy and having to plan your moves in advance particularly helpful.
My recommendations are card games, like Solitaire, or some online board games like chess. Sudoku is also cool if you’re into math puzzles (I’m not).
As they are available at different difficulty levels, you will also be able to track your progress as you hone your skills – and believe me, you’ll notice some significant improvements over time.
3. Keeping your brain young
Brain training is not just about developing skills. I mean, of course – intellectual growth is a neverending and rewarding process. But there are additional benefits you may not be aware of!
Just like physical exercises and hitting the gym strengthens your muscles and keeps you fit, playing video games builds up your brain and prevents cell loss. By maintaining your brain function, it will remain sharp at any age!
4. Forget about forgetfulness
I don’t mean literally. It’s perfectly normal for all of us to forget something from time to time. For example, there’s no magical formula to substitute my need for a grocery list. Without it, I’ll forget to buy at least one thing at the supermarket.
What I mean is long-term memory. When you train your brain with online video games, you will naturally improve your memory without even noticing. The result? It will be easier to remember and recall information – and let me tell you, it’s a powerful feeling.
5. Speed and multitasking
Since when are speed and multitasking considered cognitive benefits, you may ask?
Well, they are! Brain response is actually in charge of these two.
By playing online games, you’re enhancing your information processing speed. During gaming, you filter out irrelevant information, keep your mind active, and perform varied tasks. With time, all of this becomes much easier. You’ll be able to make faster decisions, and not at the expense of accuracy.
Online Games for Baby Boomers
Who would say that online games have so many advantages for our brain functioning?
It’s a good thing we have them at our fingertips.
Problem-solving skills you acquire through online games can easily transfer to real-life situations. What’s more, these stressbusters potentiate your memory.
So, the next time someone scorns you about playing your favorite online game, tell them you’re actually training your brain – because you are!
The final piece of advice is not to exaggerate, though. About twenty minutes a day three times a week is enough to keep away the mental stagnation.
What are your favorite games online or in a box? Please leave a comment below.
I play Backgammon Live on my phone and do the Sudoku in the weekend newspaper.
That’s really cool Gina. Backgammon online sounds fun too. Great idea!