Did you know you can actually become smarter by routinely engaging in certain hobbies. Some of the hobbies on this list are obvious, while others might surprise you.
Writing
Writing helps us collect and visualize our thoughts. It can give us direction and makes things more solid, as opposed to abstract thoughts floating around in our brain. Engaging in a daily or weekly writing practice can bring about some major benefits!
Reading
This is an obvious one. Reading is an excellent way to gain knowledge on a topic. When compared to watching television, reading is shown to result in higher world and cultural knowledge.
Exercise
While not obvious in it’s effect directly on a persons intelligence, exercise is actually one of the best hobbies for becoming smarter. Physical exertion can make you happier, and elevate your mood, which in turn can make you smarter.
Listening to Music
Everyone has probably heard by now the effects of classical music on intelligence. All types of music are influential in shaping neural structure and function.
Playing Video Games
You probably weren’t expecting to see this one on the list, but it’s true, playing video games can actually make you smarter. Certain video games can have effects on visuospatial capacity and decision making.
Learning a Language
Learning a language gives a great boost to the way a person thinks. It has been shown to affect the structure of certain areas of the brain.
Playing Chess
Chess is a simple game that employs very complex strategies. It has a profound affect on a persons working memory.
Meditation
Meditation is great for the mind. People that have a daily meditation practice show increased ability to maintain attention.
Juggling
This is a bit of a wild one but learning to juggle can help our brains with visual motion perception and hand-eye coordination.