In our fast-paced, tech-driven world, it’s easy to neglect our mental wellbeing. We’re constantly bombarded with information, stimuli, and demands on our time. This can lead to stress, anxiety, and even depression. But there’s a simple, old-fashioned activity that can help us combat these challenges and improve our mental health: doing jigsaw puzzles.
Jigsaw puzzles may seem like a childhood pastime, but they offer a surprising array of benefits for people of all ages. Let’s take a look at some now…
Reduced Stress and Anxiety Levels
The repetitive and focused nature of putting together a puzzle can take your mind off of your worries and help you enter a state of flow. This meditative state can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and thereby reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol.
Improved Cognitive Function
Jigsaw puzzles are a fantastic workout for your brain. They engage multiple cognitive skills, including problem-solving, memory, visual perception, and spatial reasoning. Regular puzzling can help keep your mind sharp and improve your overall cognitive function.
Enhanced Mood and Dopamine Boost
Every time you successfully connect two puzzle pieces, your brain releases a shot of dopamine, the feel-good neurotransmitter. This can lead to feelings of accomplishment, satisfaction, and even joy. Completing a puzzle can also give you a sense of pride and boost your self-confidence.
Social Connection and Teamwork
Doing jigsaw puzzles can be a fun and social activity. Gather your friends, family, or partner and work on a puzzle together. This can be a great way to connect with others, build relationships, and have some laughs.
Improved Focus and Concentration:
In today’s world of constant distractions, it can be difficult to focus on any one task for very long. Jigsaw puzzles require sustained attention and concentration, which can help to train your brain to better focus on other tasks in your life.
Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Jigsaw Puzzles:
- Choose a puzzle that is challenging but not too difficult for you
- Set aside some time each day or week to work on your puzzle progress
- Find a quiet, well-lit space to work on your puzzle
- Take breaks when you need them
- Don’t get discouraged if you get stuck. Just keep trying!
Craft-Hub Jigsaw Puzzles
I came across Craft Hub whilst browsing for birthday presents for my daughter who loves arts and crafts, creativity, puzzles and nature and couldn’t resist picking up some beautiful nature inspired puzzles for myself.
The three puzzles that I chose are called: Nectar Quest Hummingbird, Peacock Yin Yang and
Lion Yin Yang and are unlike anything that I’ve ever seen before. With such unique puzzle shapes, many cut into outlines of animals and so vibrantly coloured, these beautiful wooden puzzles are a work of art.
All of Craft Hub’s puzzles are recommended for ages 12+, with the A5 Small puzzles consisting of 70-80 puzzle pieces, at a size of 13.5cm x 13cm, with a medium complexity which takes approximately 2-3hrs to complete. Their A3 Large puzzles consist of 120-150 puzzle pieces, at a size of 28cm x 27cm, and are higher in complexity, taking approximately 4-5hrs to complete.
Their high-quality materials and precise laser cut pieces ensure perfection is maintained in every detail, and their wooden storage boxes are also a work of art. Featuring advanced UV printing technology, this ensures the bright and vivid Nectar design becomes a stunning art display once completed and can be put in a frame and hung on a wall.
With a keen focus on mental health, studies have show a 63% improvement in the memory of adults who complete puzzles whilst a 30% increase in spatial intelligence in children was also observed. With eco-friendly, non-toxic materials, the puzzles are a great choice for children and adults alike and are available in a range of bright and beautiful colours and designs.
Jigsaw puzzles can be a wonderful form of mindfulness meditation, a way to unplug from technology and reconnect with the present moment, a creative outlet and source of nostalgia and happy memories from childhood.So, the next time that you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or bored, why not grab a jigsaw puzzle and give it a try. You might be surprised at how much it can benefit your mental health and keep you grounded in the present moment. Unwind, challenge yourself, and boost your brain!
Use code “TRACYKISSDOTCOM” at Craft-Hub for 20% off.
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