As we are staying indoors, this would be a good time to pick up an interesting hobby to indulge in. For those who are still confused as to what they should take up and for those who are already bored of their current activities, allow us to help you there. Why don’t you take up playing chess! Not only is it a great entertainer, chess also has numerous proven cognitive benefits. While there are many bonuses to its advantage, let’s list some. Shall we?
IQ Enhancement
Detailed studies have proved that the IQ of the brain rises significantly after indulging in chess for a considerable amount of time. The moving of chess pieces requires sufficient deliberation and thinking through, which in turn automatically increases the efficiency of the brain.
A study carried out on some 4000 business students who went through a 4 month chess training showed a significant rise in their IQ scores.
Improved Memory
Chess playing involves a detailed recalling of the opponent’s move in the game and also an analysis of one’s own good and bad moves in the past games- this by default improves your memory. The more you condition your brain to recall the past sequence of events, the more it strengthens its memory.
Focused concentration and increased attention span
The game of chess demands intense concentration – to not only be thorough with one’s own moves but also anticipate the opponent’s move and a quick reflex to it. Even a flip second’s lapse in concentration can cost the player the whole game. It also structures the brain to retain attention in one place for a prolonged period.
Better Problem Solving Skills and Reading Skills
In a game of chess, one has to make real time decisions, that too quick ones. The moment the opponent makes their move, one has to impromptu come up with a counter move. This encourages the brain to think not only faster but also prepares it to deal with crisis situations better.
Studies have also substantiated the fact that kids who begin to play chess from an early age exhibit better reading skills opposed to those who don’t.
Growth in creativity
The right part of the brain is responsible for all the creative outputs in the human body. As chess requires one to come up with original defence and attack strategies, it further activates the nerve cells in the part and makes the right brain more creative.
Improved Foresight
The prefrontal cortex in the brain is responsible for judgement and planning skills. Ideally, it doesn’t begin development until one reaches their adolescence. So those who start playing chess early on help promote an early development of the prefrontal cortex too. They get better at making even tough decisions and mostly, the right ones.
Prevention against Alzheimer’s
The brain, just like our body, needs regular flexing of the numerous nerve cells within it. A number of credible health journals have substantiated with evidence that a lack of mental exercise leads to dementia as we age. By the age of 70, we are at a much higher risk of losing on brain power if the brain tissues stay unused. Chess is one of the best brain exercises, engaging in it early on would ensure a stronger memory.
The mental health benefits of this wondrous game called chess are numerous and should convince you to start playing it already for a healthy brain in the long run as well.
If you are wondering where to get yourself an interesting chess board, do visit Square Off– world’s first automated, AI and telerobotic powered chess board where the pieces move on their own; and give the game a tech-magical twist!
