The 9 Hobbies That Keep People Smart

As much as I love vegging out in front of the TV all day, I know that a 12 hour marathon of The Walking Dead is not really improving my brain function in any way. I can instead choose to spend my time outside of work and school in a way that is not only fun, but also keeps me smart. There are several hobbies you can take up that will keep you sharp, and none of them involve sitting in front of the TV all day.

1. Sports

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Taking up a sport, whether a solo sport such as golf or a team sport such as softball, not only improves your health but also helps your brain think more clearly. What's more, after playing a sport for an extended amount of time, your ability to make split second decisions will also improve.

2. Reading

This is pretty obvious. Of course reading makes you smarter! While watching TV requires passive participation, letting your brain sit dormant while you watch, reading requires active participation and engagement in the narrative. You'll boost your vocabulary, acquire better writing skills, and improve your memory. Read every single day!

3. Coloring

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If you haven't noticed the adult coloring book trend that has been gaining momentum over the past couple years, welcome back from that gigantic rock you've been under. Almost every book store has an adult coloring book section now, and for good reason. Coloring helps your develop your brain's motor coordination as well as its knack for balance.

4. Napping

This will come as a relief to a lot of you. Sleeping in general does wonders for your brain, and not catching enough z's has serious negative impacts on all aspects of your life. Avoid mood swings, cloudy thinking, and overall sluggishness by getting 8 hours of sleep a night and taking power naps when you're feeling tired.

5. Music

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Picking up an instrument will guarantee positive changes in your brain, affecting everything from the way you process language to memory. Don't be discouraged by your age! Anyone can learn an instrument at any age, it just takes patience and determination.

6. Conversation

Sometimes you just have to talk it out. Having stimulating conversations with your friends, family, and even strangers, can improve your memory and your focus. It also opens you up to new ideas, art, and language.

7. Meditating

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Want to destress, improve your decision making skills, and enhance your senses? Try meditation. Though it takes a bit of getting used to, meditating every day will have a positive impact on pretty much all aspects of your life.

8. Art

Whether it's looking at art in a local museum or gallery or creating your own art, you'll be better off. Art and creation stimulates your mind and forces you think critically. Sign up for that watercolor class you've always wanted to take!

9. Journaling

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Journaling was great when you were a kid writing about your crushes and how much you hated your teachers, and it's even better now. Writing every day, whether it's keeping track of your day, thoughts, or even writing fiction, enhances brain activity and can lead to improved thinking. Crack open that old diary and get to writing!