**The Puzzle of Serenity: How Jigsaw Puzzles Can Calm the Mind**
For Jodi Jill, a Los Angeles-based health and wellness editor, turbulence in the air is more than just a minor nuisance – it's a trigger for anxiety. But on those rough flights, she finds solace in a 50- to 75-piece kids' jigsaw puzzle tucked away in her bag.
As she begins to assemble the colorful pieces, her focus shifts from the bucking plane to the intricate design unfolding before her. "It allows me to focus on what's in front of me and what I can control in that moment," Jill says, "I have something tangible in my hand, and I'm maneuvering it, and thinking about it." This short window of calm, she claims, is all she needs to calm her frazzled nerves.
Jill's affinity for puzzles dates back to her childhood, where it served as a source of comfort and escape during difficult times. Today, she's a professional puzzle maker and founder of Puzzle Day, an international celebration observed on January 29, and Puzzle Month, observed in January. Her passion for puzzles is contagious, and experts in the field say that their benefits extend far beyond mere entertainment.
"We need lightness and fun, and opportunities for creativity and relaxation," says Amy Dykstra, a psychologist in Calgary, Canada, who specializes in play therapy. "It's essential for our mental health."
**The Power of Puzzles: A Low-Pressure Path to Productivity**
While many people may associate puzzles with children, the truth is that anyone can benefit from this low-effort, high-reward activity. "Once you've completed the puzzle, you can use that momentum to keep going in your day," Dykstra suggests. "That simple accomplishment of getting a quick win extends to other more complex and demanding tasks." This mental momentum can be particularly helpful for individuals with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) who struggle with task initiation.
Putting together a puzzle is a form of mindfulness that provides a sense of calm and relaxation. The hands-on, sensory nature of the activity helps individuals stay grounded in the present moment and interrupt stress before it snowballs. As Dykstra notes, "Most people will benefit from mindfulness activities," and puzzles are an excellent alternative for those who find traditional meditation or guided audio challenging.
**Unlocking the Full Potential of Puzzles**
So, how can you make puzzles a part of your daily routine? The key, Jill suggests, is to focus on the experience rather than the outcome. "I always tell people that it doesn't matter what puzzle you play," she says. "What matters is that it brings you a spark of joy." If traditional jigsaws aren't your thing, consider exploring other puzzle formats, such as word searches, crosswords, or Sudoku.
As you work on your puzzle, Jill encourages you to share your experience with others. "Sharing your puzzles is one way you can spread joy in the world," she says. "Puzzles aren't political; they're not religious. They're tools we use to make us happy."
By embracing the simple, yet profound, benefits of puzzles, you can cultivate a more mindful and peaceful approach to life – even in the midst of turbulence.
