Is It Good to Play Sudoku Before Bed? Benefits and Drawbacks Explained

Whether it's traditional Sudoku or a themed version like Valentine's Sudoku, there is no question that the number-based puzzle game has a lot to offer both in terms of fun and supporting brain health. However, finding the right time to play is a key ingredient in the recipe for success. And you may be wondering whether playing before bed is wise? Here's all you need to know.

Benefits of Playing Sudoku Before Bed

When looking for evening activities that are both relaxing and productive, Sudoku stands out as a potentially brilliant option.

Sudoku is known to support brain health and enhance cognitive function. Play revolves around solving number-based puzzles in a way that naturally develops problem solving and logical thinking skills. Playing puzzles aimed at beginners fosters a situation in which you can make quicker decisions as a result of pattern recognition. Conversely, harder puzzles support enhanced critical thinking as well as concentration and focus.

Playing Sudoku additionally supports memory skills and the ability to recall information (episodic memory). There is a school of thought that both cognitive and memory-based rewards could be optimized by evening play, due to the following reasons:

• By having Sudoku and problem-solving on your mind, your brain continues its development during sleep.
• You have completed your daily tasks, which allows you to fully focus on the puzzles without distractions, thus heightening the rewards.
• By playing before bed, there is a set time in the routine for Sudoku. So, you will be more likely to see the benefits of regular play.

In addition to supporting cognitive function, Sudoku is great for reducing stress and anxiety. Playing the puzzles even for a few minutes is an ideal opportunity to break free from the stressors of modern life while beating the grid delivers a confidence boost. Given that stress will have built up throughout the day, the evening is an opportune moment to tap into the relaxation.

After all, going to bed with a clear mind and regulated stress levels can be hugely positive.

Potential Drawbacks

Sudoku certainly has a lot to offer regarding benefits before bed. However, it is important to recognize the potential drawbacks of selecting this time to play.

While Sudoku does relax the brain and reduce stress, it does have the potential to cause overstimulation too. As you focus on the puzzle, your brain will need to critically analyze different permutations and how placing a number in a specific box could influence the rest of the grid. Whether using defined tactics like Candidate mode or playing with a more relaxed approach doesn't matter. Your mind will still be working as you enter sleep.

For some people, drifting off to sleep will be very difficult while others may find that they fail to reach the REM phase. If you do experience this, it's probably better to look for alternative solutions. Balancing puzzle time with rest may prove testing too. Some of the most common and problematic symptoms of this are:

• You find that you get to the end of the day and haven't completed your preparations for the next day due to too much puzzle time.
• The thought of playing Sudoku later on has distracted you throughout the day, in which case you could have gotten it out of your system earlier.
• You are too tired to concentrate on the game, thus limiting the cognitive benefits that should be gained from Sudoku.

Sudoku is a game that can be completed in a few minutes, especially when you play a simple puzzle. However, it can also be addictive and draw you in to keep playing. If this occurs and you start to notice it causes negative impacts, now is the time to take a step back.

You don't need to stop playing altogether. Instead, you must focus on finding a better time.

Tips for Playing Before Bed

If you do decide to play Sudoku before bed, it is imperative that you cultivate an environment in which you gain the benefits without encountering the potential downsides. Thankfully, several steps may be taken to achieve the desired results, including but not limited to:

• Reduce the brightness of your screen as this could impact the quality of your sleep.
• Turn off the sound effects. You can always play relaxing background music if desired.
• Consider playing easy and medium skill games rather than complex Sudoku puzzles.
• Choose a platform that does not use fast, distracting, and stimulating graphics.
• Set an upper limit of how long you will play but go to sleep earlier if your body is ready.

In addition to the steps taken to actively improve your games of Sudoku, you must take care not to let related factors cause a problem. A few sips of water are OK, but you don't want to fill your bladder and spend half of the night getting up for the toilet. Similarly, spiking insulin levels and causing digestive discomfort through eating is ill advised.

Alternatives for Evening Relaxation

While Sudoku can be a great game to include in your evening routines as a form of relaxation and brain training, it doesn't work for everyone. The potential drawbacks are more noticeable for some than others, which then outweighs the benefits. Meanwhile, many players will still need a range of other activities for balanced routines.

Other games like free Roulette can reduce stress and provide a dopamine hit. However, the fast-paced action may make it harder to sleep. Alternative activities to consider include but are not limited to:

• Watch TV,
• Journal,
• Read a book,
• Have a bath,
• Call a friend,
• Meditate.

The goal is to find a routine that can be implemented to help your brain and body prepare for a better quality of sleep. If that can include activities that support brain health, such as Sudoku, that's a bonus.

The Verdict

Ultimately, the key is to find a routine that works for you. Sudoku will certainly deliver benefits at any time while several may be enhanced by playing in the evening. Is it the best time of the day for you to play, though? The only way to find out is through experience. Try Sudoku tonight and see what you think.

DISCLAIMER: The games on this website are using PLAY (fake) money. No payouts will be awarded, there are no "winnings", as all games represented by 247 Games LLC are free to play. Play strictly for fun.