Why is Cracking the Cryptic good for mental health?
A friend of mine, Simon Anthony, is co-host of Cracking the Cryptic, a YouTube channel dedicated to solving advanced logic puzzles such as Sudoku. The site is widely praised for its positive impact on mental health.
Here could be a few reasons why it resonates so deeply with viewers and puzzle enthusiasts:
Cognitive Stimulation
The puzzles presented on Cracking the Cryptic challenge the brain, encouraging problem-solving, logical reasoning, and creativity. Engaging in such mentally stimulating activities can improve cognitive function, enhance focus, and potentially slow cognitive decline.
Mindfulness and Flow
Solving puzzles often requires intense concentration, which draws viewers into a state of "flow." This immersive focus can serve as a form of mindfulness, helping individuals temporarily set aside their worries and anxieties.
Calm and Encouraging Presentation
The hosts, Simon Anthony and Mark Goodliffe, have a soothing and engaging manner. Their calm explanations, positive reinforcement, and genuine enthusiasm create a supportive and non-judgmental environment that fosters a sense of well-being.
Sense of Accomplishment
Watching intricate puzzles being solved—or solving them alongside the hosts—provides a sense of achievement and confidence. Even when puzzles seem impossible at first, the methodical approach to finding solutions inspires resilience and determination.
Community and Connection
Cracking the Cryptic has cultivated a warm and supportive online community of puzzle enthusiasts. Interacting with others who share a passion for puzzles can combat feelings of isolation and foster social connection, which is crucial for mental health.
Escape and Entertainment
The channel offers a constructive escape from daily stressors. The hosts' humor, the beauty of the puzzles, and the clever solutions provide viewers with a satisfying and uplifting form of entertainment.
Stress Reduction
Focusing on puzzles can act as a distraction from intrusive thoughts or stressors, helping reduce anxiety. The structured, logical nature of puzzles can also be reassuring in a chaotic world.
Inspiration for Personal Growth
Many viewers are inspired to tackle puzzles they might have previously avoided, fostering a mindset of growth and persistence. This can translate into greater confidence and resilience in other areas of life.
In summary
Cracking the Cryptic’s blend of challenging puzzles, soothing presentation, and supportive community makes it a uniquely uplifting and mentally enriching experience for its audience.
Simon’s testimonial for me
“I’ve known Rob since we trained together at Pricewaterhouse too many years ago for me to be comfortable counting. We lost touch for a few years and so it’s only been relatively recently that I’ve learnt about Rob’s own battles with mental health and how he’s taken his own experience and used it to help others. I’m not one for giving recommendations willy-nilly but, if you’re looking for a speaker, I’d certainly recommend Rob. He’ll tell an inspiring story – one that will resonate with many – a story that for some people in any audience will make a genuine difference to their lives.”
Watch
Watch Simon in action with one of his famous puzzle solves.
A podcast chat with Simon.
