| Improve the performance of your brain with a game | | | | improve with each hand played and each new tactic |
| that can quicken your thinking, improve your memory, | | | | acquired. Novices and experts alike read, study and |
| increase your alertness and boost your spirits. It can | | | | discuss different methods of play in order to increase |
| even beef up your concentration while driving, provided | | | | their abilities. |
| you're not involved in a discussion of the game. Here | | | | 4. It is sociable. Whether you are playing in a social |
| are five reasons to play bridge for mental fitness. | | | | game or in an American Contract Bridge |
| 1. It is challenging. Every bridge hand is different and | | | | League-sanctioned game, it provides occasion for |
| requires diligent concentration, which causes positive | | | | conversation and conviviality. Researchers suggest |
| chemical changes in the brain, and which piques your | | | | that social interaction perks up the brain waves that |
| interest in the next hand, then the next and the next. | | | | increase alertness and awareness. |
| 2. It switches on all levels of brain operation: receiving, | | | | 5. It is rewarding... most of the time. When you've done |
| remembering and thinking. Listen to the bidding, | | | | your best, regardless if you win, your spirits are |
| remember the opening lead and the play of the cards, | | | | elevated (especially if you have a pleasant and |
| make inferences as to why each card was played, | | | | supportive partner). These feelings spark brain activity |
| then deduce the best way to make your contract with | | | | that results in improved memory and learning. |
| possible overtricks. | | | | Neuroscientists agree that an active mind diminishes |
| 3. It provides a continuous learning experience. Bridge is | | | | the chances of dementia by a large percentage. Begin |
| a game that can activate your brain for a lifetime -- | | | | your mental workouts now. Call the local bridge club or |
| from elementary school age to over 100. Your skills | | | | senior center and set up a date then keep learning. |