Best game for your brain

I usually write about languages and learning languages but I have for the last 15 years or so been interested in conventional and non conventional ways to improve brain function.  Infact my rebirth in my interest in languages was perhaps the end product of a cumulative process (see my personal story about computer games to rebuild your brain   ) for personal brain regeneration. 

What is the best one game to improve your cognitive function?  I nominate chess.  Chess is the king of all brain games. Chess involves long term memory, working memory, critical thinking, the ability to focus, calculation of risk, the ability to read your opponent and perhaps most of all creativity.  Finding creative solutions to complex problems.  I can not tell you how many games I played when all hope was lost, and I was down substantially, only moments latter  I was able to pull off a victory because of imagination and creativity.  

Chess builds mental self confidence and humility, as there will always be someone better and someone worst then you. 

Can chess be solved? There are too many variable to master the game in a lifetime. So it is a life time game, many people I know start playing it in midlife. 

It is an international game and can be played with people on the Internet or in any city park. You might even improve your language skills as well. Most of my games on on international chess servers. So skip the therapy, do not pay great heed to expert academic double talk and pass on the self improvement book hucksters, the best way to improve your brain function and build self confidence is, besides learning a language, I would recommend chess.

Tags: Best game for your brain, chess, improve your brain, languages