In today's world, it's super easy to unwind after a long day by vegging on the couch, watching Netflix, or mindlessly scrolling through social media. While those activities are great for relaxing, there's other things you can do that actually develop your brain and make you smarter! Here's a great list of ideas/hobbies to get your started:
1 Do Puzzles 🃏🎲
Gone are the days of doing puzzles at the table with your grandparents...at least, for most of us! Alternatively, there are tons of brain teasers, puzzles, and games that are available for your phone, tablet or other electronic devices. Brain teasers keep your mind sharp and active and after a while of playing them, there's a noticeable difference in mental clarity/cognitive abilities!
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2 Moderate Exercise Daily 🚴🏼⛹🏽🏊🏽
Instead of intense exercises that are seasonally-based (think spring-time gym sessions for summer-time abs), opt for light to moderate activity every single day. Not only is this method more effective in keeping weight off, you won't be likely to gain it back AND it's good for daily mental clarity!
3 Learning a New Language (or Many!) 🇧🇪🇱🇷🇭🇺
Learning a new language is tough, there's no doubt about it. And there's a reason why it's so easy when you're young- your mind is a sponge and language is still forming pathways in the brain. This is not to say it's impossible as an adult, just more challenging. And what's better for brain development than the challenges that come with learning a new language?!
4 Brush up What You've Previously Learned 🎓📝
After high school and college, it's easy to forget what you've learned, especially if your job doesn't require specifics of your background education. Because knowledge is never wasted, you should invest in being a life-long learner! One great way to do this is to brush up on what you already know- like a refresher course of sorts. Look over past assignments, read notes, scan books, etc.
5 Learn to Play an Instrument! 🎹🎸🎷
Like learning a different language, there's an optimal time in your youth when playing an instrument comes more naturally. However, that doesn't mean it can't be done once you're out of adolescence! I know friends who've taught themselves how to play guitar via YouTube! Playing an instrument is not only relaxing to play and listen to, it keeps your brain active and stretches its abilities beyond the norm!
6 Read Books 📚
The absolute best source of knowledge is in reading books. It also activates your imagination, allows you to escape, and is a good hobby to keep up on. People who read often are more knowledgable all-around!
7 Learn a New Sport ⚽️⛷⛸
Focusing your mind on a new activity, like a sport you've never played before, is a great way to recharge both your body and mind! It takes coordination, mental focus, and physical energy to really get into a sport. If you're looking to combine exercise with a brain boost, try a sport or workout routine you've never done before!
Brain-boosting hobbies are so good for healthy and active brains! And who doesn't want to constantly have a sharp mind? Got any additional brain-boosting activities you could share? 🤓😊
