1. Laughter and Fun.
A side effect of board game playing, and one of the vital ingredients for creativity and enjoyable learning experiences. Laughing and having a good time helps to decrease stress, so board games are a great medicine. This also has the added side effects of maintaining blood pressure – the release of endorphins provokes muscles to relax and blood can circulate around the body much more easily.
2. Connection with Others.
Playing board games is a perfect opportunity to connect and open up to others in a non-intrusive or arrogant way, which is great for shyer people. Playing games can encourage people to develop a sense of creativity and individuality which also leads to more self-esteem and the feeling of inclusion.
3. Teamwork and Cooperation.
It’s difficult to play a board game alone. Game play can bring everybody together, whether they are strangers, old friends, colleagues, or close family. Playing a board game is the perfect way to spend time in nice company and strengthen bonds with others.
4. Digital Detox.
One of the most amazing benefits of board games playing is that is pulls you out of the digital world. Especially when it comes to sleep, the blue light from electronic devices messes with our circadian rhythm (sleep cycle). It signals your brain to wake up when it should be winding down. Focusing your attention on a board game can really improve your sleep.
5. Boost Brainpower.
Playing board games can help children develop their logic and reasoning skills, and can improve critical thinking and boost spatial reasoning. One German study found that playing chess boosted both the analytical thought-processes side of the brain, as well as the creative side of the brain. Even if someone has never played a game of chess in their lives, the simple act of learning a new skill (whether that be chess, a different game, or something else all-together) can help to improve cognitive performance.
6. Helps reduce the risk of Dementia.
Playing games, especially as you get older, helps reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s. This is because an active brain is at lower risk of cognitive decline. Playing games can help stimulate the brain areas responsible for memory formation and complex thought processes for all ages, and uses mental skills such as decision making, higher strategic thinking, and problem solving.
Those board games collecting dust on top of your wardrobe could be key to keeping your mind busy and active. And if you’re after something new, then why not check out some of our fantastic board games?
Shop our game collection here
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If you or someone you know are struggling with mental health, you can find a list of mental health resources collated by the NHS here.
The national suicide prevention lifeline number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255). This is a free, confidential crisis hotline available to everyone, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You can find more information about the work they do on their website here.
Visit World Federation For Mental Health's website for more information about World Mental Health Day.
Visit Mind.org.uk and Samaritans.org for even more resources to see the incredible work the two charities are doing to support mental health in the UK.
Hi guys, you might want to also check this new card game called LAGIM. Its story is based on Filipino folklore and myths. Where you need to defend your baryo from evil fiends. Try to visit their FB page and website for more details.