Everyone enjoys a challenging crossword puzzle or riddle, and what an ego boost it is when you are fortunate enough to solve one! Brainteasers and logic games come in many different forms, and January is International Brain Teaser Month! If you’re looking to test your word game, consider a crossword puzzle or word search. If you need to sharpen your math skills, try a Sudoku puzzle. For the sake of variety, throw in the occasional game of chess or solitaire.

Our brains are wired to learn, create and be challenged. For many years, it was thought that brain growth stopped in adolescence, but research has shown that idea is child’s play. Adults can reap the benefits of a little playtime as well!

Similar to other cells in the body, brain cells deteriorate if they aren’t being challenged on a regular basis. So, just like taking a brisk walk or visiting your local gym is good for the body, giving your brain a daily workout has several advantages, too, such as: 

• Boosting overall brain activity.
• Increasing your memory power.
• Reducing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
• Improving memory and brain processing speed.
• Reducing boredom.
• Improving concentration.

It is easier than ever to schedule a play date for yourself. Using your phone or computer, you can find various websites that provide games for free. But if that’s not your thing, turn on your favorite TV game show, visit a local bookstore or subscribe to the local newspaper to get a daily dose of brain puzzles.