Can Gaming Be a Source of Mindfulness?

Mindfulness is often associated with meditation, but it can actually be practiced through doing activities that you enjoy and that helps take your mind off other stresses. Gaming is a source of entertainment and relaxation that is enjoyed by many, and a lot of people choose to kick back and zone out by playing video games. In this article, we’ll explore how different types of games can have a positive influence on your mood.

A Source of Enjoyment

The main attraction of playing games for many is that it is an activity that they enjoy doing, as well as providing a sense of relaxation. Some people like to be immersed in RPG’s and have a wide selection of different console, PC, and mobile games to choose from, whereas people who enjoy casino games have no shortage of options either, with a variety of slots to choose from such as ‘The Book of Dead’ and ‘Starburst’. You can click here to read the entire article from BonusFinder and see the range of casinos that offer players free spins on popular slot games. Of course, different games appeal to different people, but, for gaming to positively affect your mood, you need to enjoy what you are playing.  Certain types of games in particular have been associated with helping players relax and actively improving their moods. 

Simulation Games

Simulation games can be immersive for players, which can help take your mind off things if you are feeling stressed. It has been reported that Animal Crossing: New Horizons is a video game that can help relieve stress and promote mindfulness. In the game, you find your character on an uninhabited island surrounded by some anthropomorphic companions. The goal of the game is to build up your island into a thriving community, which can be achieved by crafting items, harvesting plants, and trading with other villages. 

The simplicity of performing tasks and creating and designing your island is what allows this game to be a good source of mindfulness for players. The pacing of the game is also significant, as it uses a real-time system which means players aren’t rushed or overwhelmed with tasks to do. Animal Crossing isn’t a game series suited for everyone, but it can be a truly immersive experience that can act as a welcome distraction from everyday life and provide a sense of peacefulness. 

Sandbox Games

Another popular genre that is known to encourage mindfulness is sandbox-style games, with one of the most well-known examples in recent years being Minecraft. The beauty of Minecraft is that it doesn’t have a main specific goal to accomplish, and it’s up to the players to make their own minds up in terms of what they want to do. The core gameplay of Minecraft involves gathering resources to build and craft new structures and environments.

With the freedom of choice that Minecraft supplies players, it’s no surprise that many people find the game therapeutic and a relaxing experience. The official Minecraft Education website actually provides lessons and training regarding mindfulness within the game, which you can read about here. The truth is, mindfulness comes from within, and the type of games you may find cathartic may be different from others. However, if you are looking for games that are known to give players a relaxing experience, then it could be worth giving Animal Crossing or Minecraft a try.  

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