At some point, we’ve probably all thought we’d like to be smarter, even if we don’t understand what that really means and scientists debate the term ‘intelligence’ regularly. Regardless, the mind is a wonderful thing, and even if we can’t properly define intelligence, many scientists and medical professionals suggest that keeping an active mind can be beneficial to improving memory and other cognitive skills. Wouldn’t it be fabulous if you didn’t always forget your lunch out of the fridge, or where you put your car keys? Well, if you want to improve your cognitive functions, here are some fun suggestions on how to achieve just that.
Chess
Sometimes, the obvious choice is the one most overlooked. It is widely believed that the origins of chess can be traced as far back as the 6th century CE, although modern versions of the game date far more recently – around 1475-1500 CE. Chess is arguably the most famous logical thinking game in the world, and it’s well-respected with good reason. Chess will encourage you to think several steps ahead of your opponent and solve problems before they have even happen. If you’re looking to develop your tactical reasoning significantly, then chess is perfect for you.
Lumosity app
Lumosity is a game you can easily download onto your smartphone. It has used cognitive science to create games that help stimulate those brain muscles. With Lumosity, you can choose to test your attention, flexibility, processing speed, and problem-solving skills. You can set targets, see how far you’ve come, and monitor your progress – all while having fun! It’s available for download on most platforms.
Happify app
Logical thinking doesn’t always have to be cold and calculated; in fact, doesn’t it makes sense to nurture your emotional wellbeing too? Happify has tailored quizzes and polls designed to help users feel more positively and, well, happier about their lives.
Jigsaw puzzles
Simplicity is always key. This might seem like a strange idea at first, but it’s another long-standing activity which requires logical thinking and problem-solving skills. You can pick it up exactly where you left off. The best part is, in the end, you have a fantastic picture that you helped put together! Heck, if you’re really into it, you can take it apart and start again right from the beginning.
Peak – Brain Training app
There’s no doubt mobile apps are most people’s bread and butter for ease of access, so here’s another app that claims to promote better memory and logical thinking. The app starts by asking you to define your goals in a few simple steps and button clicks before introducing how it works. It will guide you through the first four games, before letting you navigate on your own.
These are only a small list of possibilities, but it is essential to find the best method for you, and you alone. Everyone has a different way of thinking and methods for doing things, so it stands to reason to find an app or game that suits your personal brain-training needs. Whether you intend to dedicate several hours a day, or give it a few minutes here and there, these games will help you do just that. You don’t even need to use only one, use them all!
