Keep your brain fit – Play Bridge
Boost your brain’s performance with a game that can speed up your thinking, improve your memory, increase your alertness, and boost your spirits. It can even increase your concentration while driving, as long as you are not involved in a discussion about the game. Here are five reasons to play bridge to improve mental health.
1. It is challenging. Each hand of bridge is different and requires diligent concentration, causing positive chemical changes in the brain and piquing your interest in the next hand, then the next, and the next.
2. Activates all levels of brain function: receiving, remembering and thinking. Listen to the auctions, remember the opening lead and play of the cards, make inferences about why each card was played, and then deduce the best way to make your contract with possible tricks.
3. Provide a continuous learning experience. Bridge is a game that can activate your brain for a lifetime, from elementary school to 100 years old. Your skills improve with each hand played and each new tactic acquired. Beginners and experts alike read, study and discuss different methods of play to increase their skills.
4. He is social. Whether you’re playing a social game or a game sanctioned by the American Contract Bridge League, it provides an opportunity for conversation and fellowship. Researchers suggest that social interaction stimulates brain waves that increase alertness and awareness.
5. It’s rewarding… most of the time. When you’ve done your best, regardless of whether you win, your spirits rise (especially if you have a nice and supportive partner). These feelings activate brain activity resulting in better memory and learning.
Neuroscientists agree that an active mind decreases the chances of dementia by a large percentage. Start your brain workouts now. Call your local bridge club or senior center and make an appointment, then keep learning.