Practicing Mindfulness: Why 3D Puzzles Make for a Valuable Tool
Nowadays, we live in a world characterized by endless distractions and noise. Our to-do lists keep getting larger rather than shrinking, all of which only contributes to the feeling that we are not fully anchored in the now and that it’s our duty to become more as we dive head-first into the version of ourselves that awaits us in the future.
This, however, comes at a steep price - your peace of mind. In other words, if your mind is anchored in the future, happiness will remain out of reach. Instead, we should strive to be present in the moment, a concept that’s otherwise known as mindfulness. Still, this is easier said than done, and understandably so.
So what is the solution? There are many, but today we’re going to be delving into perhaps one of the most unorthodox of all - 3D puzzles and puzzling in general. It’s truly one of the gateways to boosting your focus, challenging your cognitive functions and calming your mind.
In the paragraphs below, we will reveal how their intricate design can change your life for the better and help you become mindful and content.
Reset your mind
The daily routine makes it far too easy to slip into a fixed state of mind. On the extreme end of things, it can even lead you down the spiral of burnout. The solution? Break the routine by trying to solve a 3D puzzle! But not just because - it’s to re-awaken the part of your mind that may have gone dormant.
It’s common knowledge that the human brain has two dominant sides; the left, which is more logical, and the right, that tends to be better at abstract thinking and solving complex problems. So what does this have to do with puzzling, may you ask? The answer is simple: it tickles and re-enganges both sides of your brain.
With both of them ‘in the zone’, you’ll be able to enter a state of flow in which you become one with the task at hand. Once you get there, you might even lose your sense of time. In turn, you will release your stress and burden, at least for the duration of the task. And once you arrive at a solution, there is always a new 3D puzzle that’s waiting to be solved.
Enter a meditative state
Having issues with being distracted all the time? 3D puzzles, by their very design, require you to pull your mind out of the ether and focus on what’s in front of you. Sometimes, your complete focus is what’s needed to make progress. At the end of the day, it’s all about subtlety - sometimes you need to twist a piece slightly to make it snap into place, and there will be times when you need to do things in the right order.
All of this can take you places inside your own mind. To put it another way, it’s like pressing a switch somewhere inside and entering a meditative state. In layman terms, it’s mentally hopping to a place where only you and the challenge ahead exist. No ego, no distractions. Once you become one with the task, it will anchor you in the present - while in this state, the future and the past cease to exist. Best of all, once you know how to enter it, it’s a transferable skill you can apply to other areas of your life.
Connecting your mind to other like-minded individuals
Sure, 3D puzzles can be a solo activity if you so choose, and depending on your personality, this may be a great way to go about it. However, you are in no way limited to going solo as they’re perfectly suited for family gatherings and hanging out with friends. Not only to help pass the time and entertain you, but also to strengthen the bond that you share.
Moreover, they’re going to bolster the relationship you have with your romantic partner. In practice, it often happens that there are not that many joint activities for the two of you to enjoy, particularly if you are on the opposite sides of the introversion/extroversion spectrum. This one not only perfectly fits the bill no matter where you stand, but also does wonders for your communication and teamwork. A great way to create lasting memories while you’re at it!
The colors and structural complexity of 3D puzzles will take you places
Taking in different types of complex structures, as well as plentiful colors and types of materials tends to have a calming effect on one’s mind. That’s why it’s important to pick the kind of puzzles that resonate with you not only in terms of their difficulty level, but also thematically. Simply put, if you’re in the presence of something that has a positive effect on your soul, your psyche will be soothed by it.
Apart from your interests, you should also consider the psychology of colors. For instance, the color green can bring about a feeling of nature’s embrace, while the color blue can signal the calmness of a vast and deep ocean. Subtle as it may be, all of this has a combined effect on your mood. So if you have an affinity for a certain range of colors, you should gravitate towards those as you make your choice. Remember that Mostarle’s 3D puzzle collection has something for all tastes and preferences, so take your pick!
Conclusion
The process of solving 3D puzzles can have a calming effect on your mind, all while helping you rebuild your focus and honing your creative muscle. When all is said is done, this is often what you’ll need to overcome a particularly challenging obstacle, and the skills obtained along the way can easily be transferred to other areas of your life.
Mindfulness is and will remain a vital aspect of your mental wellbeing. So if you don’t believe 3D puzzles will help you reach this blissful state of mind, we invite you to give them a go, especially if you’ve had a rough day. Whether you want to solve them with a loved one or go solo, they will be your trusted companion on the road to calmness and a greater overall focus.