First the disclaimer – I’m not saying that taking up X hobby will suddenly transform the ordinary guy on the street into Einstein. However researchers have found that some hobbies and activities could help us tap into our own hidden potential; utilise our own unique abilities better. Research has found that some activities; which we could take up as hobbies do in fact create new neural pathways and brain cells to help us function more efficiently.
Learn a new language
The benefits of knowing more than one language are well documented. For instance Indians, who typically grow up bilingual or trilingual, are known to have a natural advantage in school and so on. Learning a new language later in life also has significant benefits: not only is it an extra skill for a professional, it improves the memory and challenges the brain to work in new and more efficient ways.
Take up gardening
Firstly it’s a great stress buster and is seen to reduce cortisol (a stress hormone) levels. Secondly the process of nurturing and growing something generates positive emotions. Gardening is also good exercise and it gives you time to think; sort out issues in your head and even think up new ideas.
Solve puzzles
Sudoku, word games, chess and picture puzzles – whether on your phone, with pen & paper or on a board game – these are excellent exercises for the brain. Not only do these activities keep your brain agile now by improving your problem solving skills, they are known to help slow down the deterioration of cognitive ability later in life and could also delay dementia.
Learn to play an instrument
You don’t have to be musically gifted and it ought not to be your aim to give stage shows just yet. The very activity of learning a musical instrument involves various parts of the brain, improves eye hand coordination and improves memory. The fact that music itself is uplifting and enhances the mood is just an additional benefit.
Exercise regularly
How will that make me smarter, I hear you say. Exercise is known to lower stress, help us sleep better, improve blood circulation and even create new brain cells. These are all factors that contribute to enhanced brain performance. Also regular exercise is great for your health and overall wellbeing.
Learn cooking
Cooking is not rocket science, I hear you say. But learning to cook new things helps you with multitasking and making quick decisions and also lets you explore your creativity. You learn to pay attention to detail, can enjoy a sense of achievement in creating something that is healthy and enjoyable for the whole family.
