and how it helped save me after a TIA/mini-stroke...
Rubik's Cube is a three-dimensional mechanical puzzle that has gained huge worldwide popularity since its emergence in the late 1970’s. While it may seem like a simple toy, solving a Rubik's Cube can provide several benefits for brain health and cognitive development.
OK, we’re not talking about taking on world champion “Cubers” to solve in three seconds! No, we’re here to show just some of the benefits to be gained physically and mentally from taking on this cubic challenge.
Just some of the ways in which the Rubik's Cube can be beneficial include:
Problem-solving skills: Solving a Rubik's Cube requires analytical thinking, strategic planning, and problem-solving abilities.
Spatial awareness and visualization: Manipulating the cube involves understanding spatial relationships and visualizing the different moves required to reach the desired outcome.
Memory and concentration: Remembering algorithms, patterns, and sequences of moves is crucial for solving the Rubik's Cube efficiently.
Fine motor skills: Manipulating the cube's small, movable parts requires precise finger movements, coordination, and dexterity.
Patience and perseverance: Solving the Rubik's Cube can be a challenging and time-consuming task, especially for beginners.
Stress relief: Engaging in activities that require focus and concentration, such as solving a Rubik's Cube, can act as a form of mindfulness and relaxation.
Brain plasticity: The Rubik's Cube stimulates the brain and encourages neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections…even as we age.
Anyone reading my story on the About page of this website will see how Rubik helped with my own stroke recovery program! Having experienced the misery of brain fog and confusion following my mini-stroke in February this year, I can attest to the benefits of this daily mental challenge.
In March, I picked up a Rubik’s cube for the first time ever. After following various you tube video tips, finding the first two “layers” simple enough, I went on to adapt my own "mind's eye" picture techniques to simplify remembering the top corner and edge “end-algorithms” for easier completion.
I personally like to solve daily, sometimes to time the complete solution but mostly to check the various patterns and forms to visually appreciate the variances and solving shortcuts.
One of the more satisfying parts of An Elephant Brain training courses is seeing the delight in being engaged in this challenge, along with, of course, mastering listing recall challenges… a lot of fun and serious at the same time.
[NB: the fun cube pictured here in stylish colours are available from An Elephant Brain online]
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