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Unsplash/Morgan Vander-Hart
We hate to break it to you, but there is such a thing as too much Netflix. While working from home can seem like code for catching up on all your favorite shows, it’s all too easy to feel like your brain has turned into mush after a few hours (fine, days) of staring at a screen.
So what should you do instead? (You know, after you’ve done all your work.) You could listen to podcasts, play board games, and devour that stack of books on your nightstand. However, brain games are another activity to add to your to-do list. Not only can brain games help pass the time, but they can also be good for you. Brain games can help improve cognitive skills—such as decision making and short-term memory—that can dwindle overtime.
Ready to turn off the television and give your brain some TLC? Check out these cerebral options below. From physical games to downloadable apps, there’s something here for everyone.
Sudoku
Sudoku has been one of the most beloved brain games for the past 40 years—and for good reason. In addition to being addictive, this numbers-based game can improve your mood, memory, and concentration. If you want to give Sudoku a try, add this book to your Prime e-cart. It doesn’t matter if you’re a Sudoku novice or expert: This option has something for everyone.
Jigsaw Puzzles
Or, if you want to keep your screen time to a minimum, keep it old school with a puzzle. Not only do they provide endless fun for the whole family, but puzzles can also increase the production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that can control mood, memory, and concentration. When you’re done, you can always frame it and turn this brain game into home décor.
QuizUp
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Apple
Very few brain games can get the noggin churning like some trivia. With quizzes on everything from cars, to toys, to movie titles, this app is a great way to finesse your trivia skills and pick up a few fun facts.
Available on: iOS and Android
Crossword Puzzles
For as long as we can remember, the New York Times has been the reigning champ of crossword puzzles. Thanks to this book, you can have access to 150 Times–worthy crossword puzzles—all without impatiently waiting for the next paper.
Scrabble
Calling all wordsmiths: Honor your love of the written word with this classic brain game. Go ahead, cash in on those double and triple letters.
Rubix Cube
It’s been 46 years since the Rubix Cube was invented, and the retro toy has not lost its touch. Want to kick things up a notch? Consider picking up this set, which reimagines the typical Rubix cube into different shapes.
Bananagrams
Similar to Scrabble, Bananagrams is all about making as many words as you can out of a group of letters. But thanks to its compact, portable design, you can play it anytime, anywhere.