Jigsaw puzzles are not only a fun way to “kill time” but also have some surprising health benefits.
Good for physical health
Jigsaw puzzles can help you relax, lowering your heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate.
They can also be great for improving and maintaining fine motor skills (making it easier to manipulate small objects).
Puzzles keep your mind sharp
Completing a “puzzle” requires problem-solving skills, memory, and visual perception, so studies show that jigsaw puzzles can be an effective way to exercise the mind and fight cognitive decline.
Make you feel happy
When you fit a puzzle piece right, there's evidence that your brain produces more of the "happiness" hormone dopamine, which can lead to feelings of accomplishment and fulfillment.
Some people also compare completing a jigsaw puzzle to meditation, as it brings a sense of peace and tranquility. As a result, studies have shown that spending time focusing on a jigsaw puzzle can reduce stress and anxiety.
Helps you connect with family and friends
Solving jigsaw puzzles can be even more fun when you and others discover the “answer.”
Why not start a tabletop jigsaw puzzle in your home where others can easily join in? This can encourage family or friends to join you in putting together a few pieces whenever they have time.
Playing jigsaw puzzles can also be an effective way to spend time with your children.
Benefits for children
We all know that children's minds can "jump" from one thing to another. Jigsaw puzzles can help children concentrate better.
There are also many learning benefits to solving jigsaw puzzles. For example, themed puzzles can be a great way to help children learn everything from colors and letters to numbers and shapes.
Puzzles help you have time for yourself
Jigsaw puzzles are great if you need some “me time.” You can take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life as well as the constant stimulation of today's digital world .
Helps you reduce “screen time”
Spending too much time in front of a screen isn't good for our health - it can affect our eyesight, brain health, sleep habits and weight. But finding ways to cut down on screen time can be difficult.
Doing jigsaw puzzles can encourage you to spend time away from your phone, computer, and TV. Jigsaw puzzles are also very immersive: You can easily spend a few hours only to realize that you haven’t picked up your phone at all!
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