February 15, 2021
Keep Your Mind Active With Gaming
Do you remember when you were a kid and your parents (or caregiver) who berated you over the time spent on video games? “You’ll learn nothing from video games!” Well times have changed, haven’t they? There are mind exercising games, however I think that it’s important to just play. Keeping your mind challenged, active, and engaged will help you maintain good brain health. But can computer games actually keep your brain fit?
Healthy Gaming
Over the past year my PlayStation has seen a lot more activity. I’m not that old, but I guess in my kids’ mind I am. But I have enjoyed the resurgence of getting a boost from picking up the controller. Yes, I do lose, but at least I try. Whether it’s Fortnite, Apex Legends, Minecraft or Hot Shot Golf, all are fun; keeping my mind active, as I honestly just try to “keep up with my kids”. A variety of games that employ different aspects of the brain and body are helpful for healthy ageing. Your mind needs regular workouts in creative thinking and problem solving to stay sharp.
Learning a Language
If video games aren’t your thing, try something else. I always try to choose an activity I enjoy to exercise my brain. For example, why not learn a new language? There are now apps that gamify language learning, along with social language learning apps. Now full disclosure, I am guilty of trying to learn a new language and stopping. I can’t tell you how many times I have started Spanish or French to no avail. Possibly it was just boredom. However, I did find a fleeting interest in Korean and Mandarin. But I’m now thinking Yoruba! Even found an app in the Google PlayStore for it. Again, it’s really just important to keep your mind active. Take care of your well-being my friends.
Connect
You may not have time for an all-inclusive vacation or all of life's comforts, but that doesn't mean you can't prioritize your health. Do not let stress take hold, remember you can't pour water from an empty cup. Keep connected and take care of yourself first my friend.