Whether it’s to increase efficiency or to focus at work, boosting our brain power can help us perform our daily tasks better. If you think a mental workout involves dry and dull training, let us assure you that there are fun brain-training games!
In fact, research shows that if played consistently, brain-training games can improve a wide range of cognitive functions. Want to boost your mental fitness while having fun? Check out some of the popular brain-training apps below!
1. Peak
Love challenging your cognitive skills? This app is perfect for you! Peak partners with leading institutions like Cambridge, Yale, and University College London (UCL) to create brain-training games that develop specific cognitive abilities, including:
- Memory
- Focus
- Mental agility
- Problem-solving
Besides, there is also a built-in personal trainer, “Coach”, that tracks your progress and provides actionable feedback. This feature challenges you with new brain workouts to keep you motivated too!
Download Peak on AppStore or Google Play
2. Lumosity
Working with over 100 expert researchers across the globe, Lumosity designs a wide range of fun games to boost cognitive performance in areas like:
- Processing speed
- Arithmetic reasoning
- Math
- Language (e.g. vocabulary, comprehension)
Regardless of your age and skill level, Lumosity’s programs adapt to your strengths and weaknesses so you can have tailored brain-training sessions. By analysing your game scores, the app provides constructive feedback and insightful findings about your cognition!
Download Lumosity on AppStore or Google Play
3. Elevate
If you used to ace quizzes and tests in class, Elevate is for you! This is yet another fun app that offers over 40 quiz-like games designed to develop important skills, including:
- Math
- Memory
- Concentration
- Communication (e.g. writing, reading, speaking)
In case you didn’t know, research suggests that Elevate users experience a 69% improvement in cognitive skills as compared to non-Elevate users. No wonder this app won Apple’s ‘App of the Year’ award!
Download Elevate on AppStore or Google Play
4. Sudoku
This Japanese numbers puzzle is designed to improve your concentration and short-term memory. Don’t worry, the game does not require any calculations or special math skills. Instead, it challenges your critical and logical thinking!
The best thing about Sudoku is that it’s available in digital and physical versions. Want to limit your screen time? Get yourself a Sudoku book! Be it online games or physical workbooks, Sudoku comes in various difficulty levels for you to play.
Download Sudoku apps here
5. Smiling Mind
Contrary to popular belief, mindfulness does not only improve our mental health, but it is also a powerful tool that strengthens our brain functions! Studies have shown that individuals who practise mindfulness tend to have better concentration, memory, and mental flexibility.
If you’re new to mindfulness, Smiling Mind is a good option! This non-profit app offers a wide range of meditation programs for sleep, stress management, digital detox, and more. Not only that, there are also specialised programs for educators, healthcare professionals, and families!
Download Smiling Mind on AppStore or Google Play
Not into meditation programs? Fret not! Insight Timer has got you covered with a wide selection of audio tracks that can help you practise mindfulness, such as:
- Ambient sounds (e.g. forests, ocean, piano)
- Sleep stories
- Breathwork sessions
- Yoga music
Social butterflies, be sure to tune into the free talks and live streams on the app to connect with more like-minded individuals. In addition, you can also create private groups to practise mindfulness in real-time with your family, friends, and colleagues—how awesome is that?!
Download Insight Timer on AppStore or Google Play
By having these apps on your phone, you can boost your brain power anytime and anywhere, be it on the LRT or during lunch breaks. Now that’s how you make every minute count!
What other brain-training apps do you have on your smartphone? Let us know in the comments below!
Also read: Check Out These 13 Malaysian Made Mobile Game Apps That are Free For You to Play!
