Most would be surprised at the fact that puzzles are regularly indulged by more than half the population of the planet! Especially during the pandemic, which saw quite a surge in the number of folks filling their time with a puzzle of one kind or another.
Puzzles come in so many guises, so many variations, we couldn’t hope to cover them in any article.
My two most favourite puzzles growing up were jigsaw puzzles and the good old Rubik’s cube. I loved them, even though I was never able to complete a Rubik’s cube, I enjoyed trying. Then, I started dabbling in crosswords. Before too long, I began to branch out from that and search out other kinds of puzzles to get to grips with. But that’s me, I know there are many other folks out there who don’t indulge for one reason or another. In my view, they’re missing out.
You don’t have to be a complete puzzle buff to benefit. Just as it’s a good idea to take time out once or twice a week to keep the body in shape, getting your head around a puzzle or two is good for the old grey matter too. It’s said that immersing oneself in a jigsaw puzzle helps hone memory and concentration. As well as that, think about the useful ability you are employing when you are trying to visually fit one piece with another among a mass of patterns and shapes. We are pretty unique, aren’t we?
A puzzle, whichever type you choose to have a crack at, can help you to relax, wind down, de-stress, and switch off for a little while from the everyday buzz of life around you. I find that a jigsaw puzzle is perfect for that, with a fresh cup of coffee and a spare half an hour, I’m good to go.
Like I always say, “A puzzle a day, keeps senility at bay!”
