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5 Benefits of Doing Puzzles

When you think of jigsaw puzzles, what comes to mind? Some people consider puzzles a hobby or a fun way to pass the time. Others think of them as great brain busters for kids. You may be surprised to find that there are several proven health benefits to taking the time to put together a puzzle! How can you benefit from some regular puzzle time? Check out some of the top benefits of doing traditional jigsaw puzzles!


1. Effective Stress Reliever


Most people have a lot on their minds on a routine basis and usually a high-stress level. If you’re looking for a way to de-stress and unplug, sitting down and working on a jigsaw puzzle might be the thing to help you. Jigsaw puzzles have been proven to help with mental health challenges, such as anxiety and depression. They engage the brain in a way that lowers barriers and creates a sense of calm. If you’ve had a particularly stressful day, a traditional jigsaw puzzle could be the perfect activity to help you relax.


2. Great for Alone Time


In these times, many find themselves alone with time on their hands. It is the default to start scrolling through their social media or binge-watching a TV show for a few hours. The next time you’re faced with the opportunity, choose to set aside the electronics and work on a traditional jigsaw puzzle instead! You’ll be able to more effectively engage your mind, not to mention the satisfaction that comes with putting together those last few pieces of the jigsaw puzzle. You certainly don’t get that from scrolling through social media!


3. Strengthen Your Mind


Working jigsaw puzzles has proven time and again to be a great exercise to strengthen your mind. When you’re focusing on a traditional jigsaw puzzle, you’re able to engage both the left and the right side of your brain and develop problem-solving skills in addition to improving your short-term memory. It’s an overall great way to get some mental exercise in and keep your mind sharp. Not to mention it’s incredibly fun!


4.Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills


While doing traditional jigsaw puzzles alone can certainly be enjoyable, there are some great benefits to putting them together with others! You’ll find that your teamwork skills improve as you come together as a pair or as a group to get a puzzle put together. You’ll also see some increased problem-solving skills as you consider your options and how you can most effectively put together the puzzle.


5. Easy Way to Connect with Loved Ones


Perhaps one of the most significant benefits of doing puzzles is the opportunity to connect with family, friends, and loved ones more easily. A jigsaw puzzle, some good music, and a handful of yummy snack options is a recipe for a perfect evening together connecting with those you love. It’s easy to converse and catch up while putting together a puzzle, so take advantage of the opportunity to simultaneously enjoy time together and have fun with a traditional jigsaw puzzle.


Time to Start On That Puzzle!


Whether you’re looking for a new way to relieve stress or you’re working on a goal to reduce your screen time, you’ll find that the benefits of doing traditional jigsaw puzzles are endless. Check out our collection of traditional jigsaw puzzles today and get started.


20 comments


  • Carolyn Satterfield

    June 1 in 2012 my husband suffered a stroke that left him with the inability to use the left side if his body. His first caregiver asked if he might like to do jigsaw puzzles. The next day she brought him one and we have had a puzzle in our dining room table for almost nine years. It has been amazing. We love your puzzles. We have done many and we exchange them with other folks. Thank you Dowdle.


  • Rachel Duece

    I love your puzzle and doing puzzles I glue them after to display my beautiful art work


  • Galli

    Luv this! First day of covid lockdown in Ca. We pulled out a puzzle & have been putting all kinds together since last March. 550, 750, 1000, 2000 & 3000 pieces. Ended up Swapping puzzles w/ family, friends & neighbors. Stopped counting after 55. & all the benefits listed are absolutely on point!!


  • Pam

    I had been many years since I did a puzzle, but this summer 2020 I jumped in with both feet! What surprised me most is that I enjoy doing puzzles without looking at the picture. The extra challenge is rewarding when chunks come together.


  • Janet Cheney

    My husband has dementia, and working a puzzle is a way for me to separate from the stress of everyday living conned keeps me from losing my temper over a situation I have no control over.


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