6 Benefits we get from Solving Jigsaw Puzzles

During last year’s Covid19 pandemic and lockdown, everyone was forced to stay at home. Everyone had too much time on their hands and was able to take up new and reminisce old hobbies. Everyone who was almost too busy with school or work suddenly had too much time, and now they can finish those puzzles stored on their cabinets, that they’ve been meaning to finish. It took the focus off from what was happening and was a good distraction from the chaos the pandemic has caused.

Jigsaw puzzles are one of those games or activities that can transcend from school age to adulthood. As children, we were fascinated by how such small pieces of cardboard, when formed and attached together, show a beautiful bright picture when finished. It gives us a great sense of pride and accomplishment when we finish a puzzle. That’s the reason why even as adults, some people carry on with their love and interest in solving jigsaw puzzles. Here are some benefits we get from solving jigsaw puzzles:

1. Puzzles are good for the brain. They aid in the development of visual-spatial processing, critical thinking skills and attention to detail. It improves short-term memory retention and problem-solving ability. Puzzles also improve concentration and mental speed. Studies have also suggested that spending at least 25 minutes a day by solving puzzles and riddles can raise your IQ by 4 points.
2. Doing puzzles exercises both the left and right sides of the brain – the left side of the brain is for logical reasoning while right side is for creativity and imagination. While doing puzzles, both sides of the brain communicate and work together, strengthening the connections between brain cells, therefore increasing cognitive abilities.
3. There have been studies that show people who solve jigsaw puzzles have less chances of acquiring memory loss, dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. According to a study, puzzles stimulate the brain and prevent the plaque which is the marker of Alzheimer’s. While those diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s are given simple jigsaw puzzles for their mental exercises, as a way to reduce the amount of brain cell damage that occurs in patients.
4. Solving jigsaw puzzles relieves stress and anxiety. It helps the brains relax, from being in “Beta” or awake state, to “Alpha” or relaxed state. It is similar to the state when we are dreaming and have the same benefits of meditating. This sense of peace and tranquillity helps in lowering blood pressure and heart rate.
5. It also detaches people from too much dependence on smart gadgets, cell phones and television. it provides an alternative from the stress of today’s digital lifestyle.
6. Jigsaw puzzles are great bonding tools for families and friends. It encourages productivity, cooperation and teamwork among those trying to solve it.

With jigsaw puzzles, you get to enjoy and exercise your brain at the same time. For your jigsaw puzzle needs, you can shop for different design of puzzles here. They also offer “create your own puzzle” with your very own customized puzzle.