With how fast the world moves today, it is hard to take time out for yourself. To make things more difficult, when people talk about taking care of yourself, they mostly talk about your physical health.
But your brain health is equally important. Here is the question, though. How do you do that? And how do you do that effectively?
Everyone is so busy. But there are some super fun and challenging brain games you can play. These are fun and help you with memory, vocabulary, strategic thinking, and more.
10 Best Brain Games That Keep Your Brain Sharp
There are many games you can play to keep your brain sharp and healthy. We rounded up the 10 best ones. Whether you like to tackle a challenge alone, play physical board games, or on your phone, we have the perfect one for you.
1. Chess
Chess is probably one of the oldest “brain games”. Everyone knows about chess, especially after the Netflix success of The Queen’s Gambit. Whether you watch the show or not, you will appreciate the depth of the game.
It teaches you strategy, pattern recognition is great for better brain functionality. Although contrary to popular belief, being better at chess is not an intelligent test. It is all practice and determination.
Besides, if you get good at it, you can compete professionally. The world’s top chess players are no less than celebrities in their circles.
2. Crossword Puzzles
The classic crossword puzzle is another great option if you want to stretch your brain muscles. Word games, in particular, have a great side effect of improving vocabulary and spelling.
While you might think to yourself, “I am not in school; I have great spelling”, practice and reputation are always a good thing. Besides, these puzzles also improve cognitive function, memory, and problem-solving skills. They can get tough, though. Do not hesitate to get some help from sites like crosswordanswers911.
3. Scrabble
Scrabble is a great game for all age groups and is perfect for playing with friends and family. If you do not want to play the board game, great Scrabble apps are also available on the app store.
Our average attention span has declined significantly over the past years. This is where Scrabble can help you. It teaches you to focus on a task. Not to mention, it also helps with memory and vocabulary.
4. Rubik’s Cube
If you want to play something solo, a Rubik’s cube is the best option. The great thing about this is no matter how good you think you are; there is always a new challenge. It is the world’s best-selling puzzle for a reason.
There are 43 quintillion possible moves that will have your brain working overtime. It helps improve hand-eye coordination, allows you to think fast, and also strategizes.
5. Sudoku
Like Scrabble, Sudoku is a classic board game that can be found on any app store. It is great for learning to problem-solve and keeping your brain sharp and on its “toes.”
The objective of the game is quite simple. You have a 9×9 grid that you have filled with numbers from 1 to 9. The catch is that you cannot have any repeat numbers on a single line vertically or horizontally. Sudoku is also a great project if you are learning to code!
6. Wordle
Remember when Wordle took the world by storm? The New York Times even bought the game for a cool million dollars. Despite the media hype, Wordle is super fun to play. While it is not as intensive as other games on this list, it is great for strategic thinking.
The game also gives you feedback on each move. We like this feedback-based gameplay a lot! You will need to strategize, recognize patterns, and plan out each move.
7. Memory Games
Any kind of memory games are fantastic for improving your memory. Most importantly, memory games can also help mitigate the risks of dementia in later age.
This alone is a good reason to incorporate fun memory games. Not that we are not specifying any single game here. It can be any memory game that you like.
8. Jigsaw Puzzles
Jigsaw puzzles have a subculture all to themselves. If you are in the community, you already know how rich the niche can be. There are different kinds of games for different people.
These puzzles make you use your logic and creativity to solve. So, you stimulate your brain in multiple ways, which is a great plus. Additionally, some puzzles can take hours to finish. If not, days. This makes them a great way to kill free time while keeping your brain sharp.
9. Sagrada
Sagrada is a great (and challenging) combination of a brain teaser and a puzzle. You must create a complete stainless glass window by rolling a die and following the restrictions and rules.
It can get quite challenging and fun, and you will need to come up with creative ways to work around the restrictions. It’s great if you love puzzles and have experience solving different kinds of puzzles. However, Sagrada is better than your first brain game.
10. Lumosity
An app more than a game. It is not a game at all but rather an app with many mini-games that help your brain stay sharp. You can play up to three games each day. So, it is great for busy people.
But if you are serious and want to play more, Luminosity provides a subscription option with lots of different features. It is one of the more popular ones out there. Another option you can try is Elevate.
How To Keep Your Brain Young
Brain games alone are not enough to keep your brain sharp. Numerous studies prove exercise, challenging yourself, and focusing on mental health have tremendous benefits. Here are some additional ways to keep your brain sharp and healthy!
Exercise, Exercise, Exercise
Physical activity helps keep your body in shape. Fortunately, it does more than that. Exercising is also a great way to keep your brain sharp. It is even better if you personalize your fitness routine and diet to fit you. It’s kind of a win-win if you think of it. What good is your fit body if your brain is mush? Here is a great guide
Be a Lifelong Learner
Here is a shocker: Using your brain more helps it stay sharp. Okay, that’s not a shocker at all. Strive to be a lifelong learner. You will exercise your brain, literally create new neuron connections, and learn a cool new skill.
Challenge Yourself
Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Do the thing that is just a bit outside your current capability. You will feel the joy of accomplishment, and also challenge your brain!
Do Not Ignore Your Mental Health
Lastly, good mental health is crucial. It will keep you stress-free, happier, and sharper. Eat right, work out, and foster good relationships. If you need to go to a therapist, definitely do!
Wrapping Up
Brain games combined with a healthy lifestyle are the perfect way to keep your brain sharp. However, life happens, and you might not always have the time for everything.
In those times, the 10 best brain games we mentioned will come in super handy. There is a game for everyone and every situation!