Tuesday 21 September 2021

Why Playing Solitaire Is Good For You

Solitaire is a group of card games usually played by one person. It is also called 'Patience' in some countries like the United Kingdom, Poland, and Germany or 'cabale' in some Scandinavian countries.

It can be played on a computer or with one or more regular 52 card packs.

Solitaire games are a great activity to enjoy on your own because you can play them on a good online site for free on your web browser. Apart from helping you relax, playing solitaire can boost your mental health and, also improve your thinking and strategy skills.

Benefits of Playing Solitaire

Improves mental skills

Solitaire is a soft mental activity that still provides mental stimulation. The player has to analyze all the cards. They also need to plan all future sequences to help them win the game. Performing these tasks simultaneously and repeatedly can improve mental skills.

Practice essential life skills

You get to practice skills like delayed gratification or "return on investment". That is, sometimes it is best to hold your ground and wait, instead of acting in the moment to be able to collect more rewards later.

Solitaire also teaches the important skill of sometimes taking a step back to move two steps forward on the game, a skill often needed in real life.

Improve memory and concentration

Having a good memory is not needed to play solitaire. However, improvement in memory can be noticed in players as they continue to play frequently. They unconsciously memorize the colors, suits, numbers, and even the order of the cards.

Reduces stress

Playing solitaire provides needed alone time to disconnect from problems and relax. Solitaire requires light mental activity that helps the mind to get into a light meditative state. This helps to reduce stress without shutting off the brain completely.

Although originally solitaire is played with a physical deck of cards, it is now popular to play the game online. This was made possible by the various game software and websites that have been created to play the game. Anyone can play the game anywhere, you just need your device and a good internet connection to play. This is just one of the many benefits of playing online.

Benefits of Playing Online Solitaire

Eliminates handling of physical Cards

When you are playing offline, you have to buy a physical deck of cards. You have to shuffle the cards which can be complicated if you are playing with two or more decks. But, when playing online, the software handles everything. You also don't have to keep any records because the software will keep detailed records of your matches.

Enforce the rules

You don't have to worry about enforcing the rules of the game because the software will do that for you.

Easy to customize

Some websites allow you to customize the game according to your requirements. The rules you select will then be automatically applied to the next game.

Learn to play the game

Playing online is a simple and easy way to learn how to play solitaire. A good online game site will have simple instructions teaching you how to play each variation of the game.

Resources for playing solitaire

There are many websites where you can play solitaire for free on your web browser. A highly recommended site is Solitaire.org. It has an extensive collection of different solitaire game variations. If you have never played the game or you are still learning, this is the website for you. There are detailed instructions written in simple language to help you learn the basics very quickly in addition to a thoughtful FAQ(frequently asked questions) section for each game.

They also have a large collection of other online card games, and fun online games like hidden object games, daily crosswords and so much more. If you get tired of playing solitaire, you can find another game you enjoy without leaving the website. One great advantage of playing on this website is that there are no adverts to distract you while playing your games.

Another option is to install solitaire software like Microsoft Solitaire Collection which is completely free or paid options like Pretty Good Solitaire and SolSuite2020 on your desktop or mobile device. There are also many free solitaire apps for android and iPhone mobile devices in the app stores.

What Solitaire Games to Play

Klondike Solitaire

This is the most popular version of the Solitaire card game made famous by the Microsoft online game. The game became popular in the 19th century and may have been named after the Canadian region where the gold rush happened. You can learn more and play for free here: Klondike solitaire

Freecell Solitaire

Freecell solitaire is a fun variation of the classic solitaire. The game compels you to use logic and foresight. Try playing here: Freecell solitaire.

Pyramid Solitaire

This variant was released by Microsoft as Tut's Tomb. It's now widely known as Pyramid Solitaire. Playing this game can be very relaxing. Try it here: Pyramid Solitaire

Spider Solitaire

Spider solitaire is a more difficult variation of the classic solitaire. This one is puzzle-like and will make you think. Play here: Spider Solitaire

Read: 3 games to improve your mental health

Friday 10 September 2021

Does Celery Have Any Health Benefits?

Celery is a popular low calorie vegetable you can find in any vegetable stall. It comes from the same family as carrots and parsley. This green vegetable's origins can be traced to the Mediterranean and North Africa. This plant is now cultivated globally and can be found in cuisine of many cultures.

This green vegetable has many health benefits because it contains antioxidants, phytonutrients, vitamins and minerals that help reduce the risk of some ailments in addition to aiding digestion . I n this article we will discuss the many health benefits of celery and side effects.

Benefits Of Celery

Supports digestive function

Fiber is important for digestive function. Celery is a good source of soluble and insoluble fiber. Celery also contains substances (phytonutrients) that protect digestive mucosa and increase the lining of the stomach. This can decrease occurrence of gastric ulcers.

Improve memory

Studies have found that celery extract appeared to improve cognitive function. Cognitive function refers to mental abilities such as learning, thinking, reasoning, remembering, problem solving and decision making. Celery contain flavonoids which help cognitive function. Flavonoids are powerful anti oxidants which occur naturally in vegetables, fruits and some beverages.

A research study found that people who consumed about 600 mg of flavonoids per day had a 20% lower risk of cognitive decline than those who had only 150 mg. It has also been shown that flavonoids can help counter dementia by protecting the cells from aging process caused by brain inflammation.

May reduce blood pressure

Celery contains chemical compounds known as pthalides. These substances relax and expand the walls of blood vessels allowing blood to move more freely, thus reducing blood pressure. It also contains potassium which helps regulate blood pressure. When blood pressure is well regulated, it reduces the chances of suffering a stroke, heart attack or developing arteriosclerosis.

May help in weight loss

One cup of diced celery is said to contain only 14 calories. This makes it a great addition to salads, soups and other meals if you are on a weight loss diet. The fiber in celery can make you feel full for longer. Also, the high water content can help prevent dehydration, thereby boosting energy levels.

Boosts immunity

Celery is rich in Vitamin C, vitamin A and other antioxidants. This helps to boost immunity and aid healthier eyes and skin.

How To Include Celery In Your Diet

Celery can be used in salads, soups, juices and smoothies. This smoothie recipe is a favorite and very tasty.

Celery and pineapple smoothie

Ingredients

One pineapple

Half of a cucumber

Ginger

Celery

Wash pineapple carefully under clean running water to remove sand and dirt.

Peel pineapple and cut into small pieces and set aside.

Boil the pineapple peels in two cups of water.

Wash celery sticks and cut into pieces.

Add peeled ginger, diced cucumber, diced pineapple, celery and water from the boiled pineapple peels into a blender and blend for a few minutes.

Side Effects Of Celery

Celery can cause a severe allergic reaction in some people. Symptoms include breathing difficulties and swelling.

Celery seed can stimulate the uterus and should be avoided by pregnant women.

There is a risk of possible contamination with pesticides. Wash well to remove all traces of pesticide before consuming it.

Eating too much can cause bloating and gas.

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