Sponsored by Arkadium
It’s no secret that day-to-day life in the quarantine era can feel like a never-ending slough, like mindlessly crossing days off a never-ending calendar. From working at home or tending the house, keeping up with errands and hobbies, or catching up with friends and loved ones, somehow the list of things to do gets longer every time you look at it. In the rush to stay productive during these times, it can almost feel counterproductive to take time out of your day to focus on you. However, plenty of articles and research have shown that one of the quickest roads to a life of dissatisfaction is burnout. Hard as it may seem, it’s incredibly important to keep stress low and positive emotions high. Thankfully, one easy way to do so is simply by carving a little time out of each day for yourself. Yep, some good old-fashioned “Me Time.”
Taking time out of every day for “Me Time” is one the best ways to keep your moods level, mind focused, and spirits high. Luckily, there are a wide variety of easy-to-access games you can play for just minutes at a time that help you achieve just that – and they’re right on your phone. Sound like a stretch to say mobile gaming can help with your mood? It might not be as farfetched as it seems!
For years, studies have gone back and forth on whether games have cognitive or behavioral benefits, and the jury may still be out. But what we can all agree on is that games are fun. And that’s even backed by science. After studying the social effects of gameplay, psychologists found that easy-to-learn, quick-play games were effective in improving players’ moods, promoting relaxation, and even warding off anxiety. Other studies have shown that playing games also contribute to the release in dopamine – also known as the “happiness hormone.” In short, games make people happy. That’s a lot of benefit from one quick download.
So, what makes a game “easy-to-learn?” Think of the classics you’ve been playing for years. Games that will continue to stand the test of time like your favorite crosswords, card games, or word games. Games that were beloved before the internet and will continue to be beloved for years to come. That’s not to say more recent classics won’t do the trick either! Whatever pumps up the fun is the perfect game for you.
Now, if you’ve read this far, you know that games can lead to a more positive state of mind. But here’s the thing…it doesn’t have to begin and end with us. The great thing about having fun while gaming is that you have the power to pass that joy on. Enjoying your favorite games on your own is a great way to pass the time, but telling your friends about your games, encouraging them to download, or simply sharing your tricks and tips is an amazing way to strengthen your bond, increase feelings of joy and happiness, and share those feelings with the people you care about the most. What’s better than that?