Amazing Effects of Concentration on Your Brain
Concentration is more than just a game. Scientific research proves that regular play improves various brain functions. Here's a detailed explanation of these effects and mechanisms.
Concentration intensively uses short-term memory, strengthening working memory
By temporarily memorizing card positions and processing new information while maintaining that memory, the prefrontal cortex is activated. This improves the ability to hold and manipulate information simultaneously.
A 2019 cognitive science study showed subjects playing concentration 3+ times weekly improved short-term memory test scores by an average of 23% after 3 months.
Both sustained and selective attention are trained
During gameplay, you must maintain constant attention and distinguish between important and unimportant information. This strengthens the brain's attention networks.
A 2020 study by University of Tokyo researchers found that 15 minutes of daily concentration training for 6 weeks improved attention test scores by an average of 18%.
Using multiple brain regions simultaneously improves overall cognitive function
By simultaneously using multiple cognitive functions like visual processing, spatial recognition, memory, and decision-making, the entire brain network is activated and cognitive reserve increases.
A 10-year follow-up study by the National Institute on Aging showed seniors who regularly play memory games have 32% lower risk of cognitive decline compared to those who don't.
Regular brain training reduces dementia risk
By maintaining brain plasticity and promoting new neural circuit formation, age-related cognitive decline is delayed. Activation of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex is particularly important.
A 2021 meta-analysis reported that seniors 65+ who engage in cognitive training 4+ times weekly have 29% lower dementia risk.
Relaxation and stress relief through gaming
Games with appropriate difficulty create a "flow state," reducing the stress hormone cortisol and releasing the happiness hormone dopamine.
University of California research showed subjects playing puzzle games 20 minutes daily for 2 weeks had average cortisol levels decrease by 15%.
Brain areas working during concentration
Working memory, attention control, decision-making
Most actively engaged region
Memory formation and storage
Especially active for location memory
Spatial recognition, visual processing
Activated for card position awareness
Visual memory, pattern recognition
Activated for image identification
Practice guide for maximum benefits
Optimal: 4-5 times/week
Minimum: 3+ times/week
Consistency is key. Even daily small sessions are effective
Optimal: 15-30 minutes/session
Minimum: 10+ minutes/session
Within concentration limits. Too long can be counterproductive
Optimal: 60-70% success rate
The "just right" level - not too easy, not too hard
Combine different themes and difficulties for new brain stimulation
| Day | Activity | Theme |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Normal 15 min | Playing Cards |
| Tuesday | Easy 20 min | Animals |
| Wednesday | Rest day | - |
| Thursday | Normal 15 min | Geometric |
| Friday | Hard 10 min | Prefectures |
| Saturday | Easy 25 min | Flowers |
| Sunday | Family competition | Your choice |
Stressful training is counterproductive. Choose enjoyable difficulty and themes
Recording scores and thoughts helps track progress and maintain motivation
Combining with exercise and social activities creates synergistic effects
Sleep consolidates memories, so post-training sleep is important