Past our prime physical fitness is as important as mental agility. There are several ways of maintaining physical fitness like exercises, Yoga, walking etc. But how to keep the mind fit?
I believe there are questionnaires available online which one can answer and come to know how active one’s brain is. This, I guess, needs to be done periodically. It’s not a one time assessment.
Solving crosswords and playing sudoku are also said to help keep the brain alert. I am not very good at either.
However, as a part of my daily routine, I make sure to play a few word games. These are not medically recommended. But I have noticed during my recovery phase, when my body and mind both were weak, I was unable to solve these riddles. As I got stronger I could.
There are plenty of games on nytimes.com like spelling bee, letterboxed, tiles etc. But my favourite is the Strands where you have to find the hidden words related to the given hint along with the spangram which cuts across the word matrix.
Another one is Wordle where you get six chances to find the five lettered word of the day.
Waffle comes next where you get 15 swaps to complete the word puzzle. The Deluxe Waffle is more interesting where you get 25 swaps. It’s longer. And you win stars too.
Squardle is just word building. An Express Squardle is a quick one. There are regular ones too with more words to make.
I started playing these games, at first, for fun. Then it grew into a habit. Now it’s kind of home work ☺️.
Experts say that those who are into creative activities remain mentally strong for long. The best example is our nanogenarian author, Mr. Ruskin Bond, still going strong, writing regularly and getting published every year. He has now started appearing on Instagram as well. Kudos to him.
Another example that comes to mind is that of the Bharatnatyam and Odissi danseuse, Sonal Mansingh, on whom doctors had given up after a life changing accident. But she refused to remain incapacitated and by sheer willpower resumed her career as a classical dance exponent.
My nephew advises me to be out of my comfort zone and start doing things which I am scared of or never done before or for a long time. Restraining oneself physically is also limiting one’s mental space.
My sister, seven years older than me, has made it a point to learn one new thing every year. She also travelled to the USA all by herself last year.
Friends, if you have anymore suggestions do let me know by way of comments.
And keep writing and posting.
Remember its a daily dose of medicine.
Cheerio
You’re on the right track my friend
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Thank you Sadje
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You’re welcome
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Ha ha you just gave out all the answers today 😀! We just woke up.
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Oh! 😱 Sorry… Didn’t expect you to be into these
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Most do it as their morning coffee routine 😊
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Really ? That’s very comforting
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Good post, Geeta. Have a fabulous weekend.
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Thank you Mary
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Really enjoyed this. It’s good to keep your brain active this way.
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Thank you Esther 🙂
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This was a fun post and I still need to try wordle – my friend was visiting us this summer and I saw her playing this game numerous times – and it really does seem to keep the brain fresh – also, research supports many of your points here….
and especially what your nephew advised: “to be out of my comfort zone and start doing things which I am scared of or never done before” –
There is so much to be said for this – and your reminder is spot on about how this keeps humans fresh – and it can prevent burnout and augment much growth – even though not always easy to try new things – which I guess is the point – right? Leaving the comfort zone and that “discomfort” can be so good for us!
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Yvette, glad that you are back. Was missing your posts. Yes, it’s very important to keep the mind fresh and healthy. I am happy that the post resonates with you. Try Wordle one of these days. It’s fun.
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Hi – Yes, short break and have my last interview coming tonight –
I am going to send you an email later today (just want you to know so you will check your email)
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Wordle has been with me for past 4 years now but since last one year i kind of gravitate towards Chess. Lovely reminder post gc.
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I want to learn chess but am not sure whether I have the acumen for it
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Good sense
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Thank you Derrrick
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I love how you highlight that exercising the mind can be just as refreshing as exercising the body. Truly, creativity keeps the spirit young. 🧩✨
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It is utmost important to keep the mind healthy. Then only your body can be healthy and spirit be up.
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Absolutely true 🌿🕊️ A healthy mind is the foundation for a strong body and a lifted spirit. Thank you for this wonderful reminder!
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