By Joseph Nichols
From PHN Issue 58, Fall 2024
Exercise is one of the most productive and popular hobbies in prisons all over the world. While the care of one’s physical body is important, many forget to exercise one of their most vital
organs . . . THEIR BRAIN.
In the same way push-ups, pull-ups, and burpees can make your body stronger, regular brain stimulation can enhance your brain. Games such as crosswords, sudoku, cards, Scrabble and
even chess are all great options, but some of the most versatile and engaging games that you can play that will exercise the full set of your “cognitive muscles,” are tabletop role-playing games (or
TTRPGs for short). Some popular TTRPGs are “Dungeons & Dragons” and “Pathfinder.” So, why are they more effective? It’s because they combine various games and brain challenges into one.
These types of games require you to use your long-term memory, working memory, executive functioning (the ability to control and apply your mental skills), attention to detail, multitasking, and processing speed. So let us look briefly at what each of these entail as it applies to
TTRPGs:
Long-term memory – remembering the names of people, places, and objects in the game, as well as past events.
Working memory – remembering verbal information such as number sequences, order of directions, and lists of items.
Executive functioning – solving problems using information you have at hand and planning for future challenges (like remembering to bring a light source to a dark dungeon).
Attention to detail – staying focused on a task, figuring out which tunnel leads to where on a map, and putting a set of puzzle pieces together correctly to avoid setting off a trap and injuring your
character.
Multitasking – taking notes or reading game rules as others are talking; keeping track of health, ammunition, and spells used while fighting a raiding party of goblins; and steering the horse that you are riding all at the same time.
Processing speed – keeping up with a conversation both in and out of the game; following the plot of the story; and completing tasks efficiently in a set time frame, such as placing the correct pegs in the correct holes in the wall so that you can climb out of the hole before it fills up
with corrosive liquid.
These are just a few examples of the unlimited game scenarios you can create as a team with your fellow players. You can play in a fantasy world of elves and dragons or a sci-fi world with starships and aliens. You can play in modern times or in a past historical period, all while
enriching your mind. So, engage yourself in something that coaxes the imagination; encourages teamwork; and builds comprehension, communication, and reasoning skills – all while exercising your brain.
WARNING: You may find time passing by at lightning speed all while enjoying and learning the expansive world of tabletop roleplaying games. Play with caution! ✦
Prison Health News 