Summary
Hobbies such as meditating, playing musical instruments, traveling, dancing, exercising, reading, and playing video games can increase intelligence and improve cognitive function.
Scientific studies show that these hobbies make us smarter. However, these are not the only hobbies that can indicate a high IQ.
Meditate
Research conducted by renowned institutions, such as Harvard University, reveals that the practice of meditation can induce changes in the structure of the brain.
Regularly, people who meditate demonstrate a potential increase in these cognitive abilities, suggesting improved intelligence.
Play a musical instrument
Playing musical instruments has beneficial effects on the brain, involving the central and peripheral nervous system, as well as stimulating executive functions and sensory perception.
As we age, this organ tends to decrease in size and volume, directly affecting mental health.
This is confirmed by a 2017 study from the University of Montreal, which found that musical training improves the brain’s multisensory processes, resulting in a significant decrease in reaction times to multisensory stimuli.
Voyage
A survey of German university students assessed the brain differences between students who traveled and those who did not leave their hometowns.
The travelers, upon returning, noticed significant improvements in their personality, while those who remained did not observe such changes.
Changes in travelers included increased ability to socialize, mindfulness, complacency, and willingness to try new experiences after more than a year on the road.
Dance
A significant study in the New England Journal of Medicine, which tracked older adults for more than two decades, found that consistent dancing reduced the risk of dementia by 76 percent, a rate twice as high as that associated with reading.
Additionally, other research published in Current Alzheimer Research has confirmed that dance-based therapies improve cognitive function in patients with dementia.
Exercise
In a University of Illinois study, 59 older adults were divided into two groups: one performed aerobic exercise and the other stretched and toned, both for six months.
The results showed that the aerobic group had an increase in frontal brain mass, improving functions such as attention and memory, reinforcing the idea that physical health positively influences mental health.
Must read
Reading is an activity that enriches intelligence in multiple ways. A 2013 study found that immersing yourself in fictional stories sharpens emotional intelligence, because by engaging with different characters and their personal journeys, you develop greater empathy.
To stimulate analytical reasoning, it is advisable to read non-fiction works, such as manuals and self-help books.
These materials can expand your creativity and enhance your skills to tackle both practical and theoretical challenges.
Play video games
Finally, if you like electronic games, know that video games can be precious allies for brain health.
Source: Competitions in Brazil
André Forastieri is a journalist and entrepreneur, founder of Homework and the content and connections agency Compasso, as well as a mentor to professionals and executives. Find out more aboutandreforastieri.com.br
.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
