Poker is a card game played by millions of people around the world. It has become a hugely popular activity for both leisure and professional players, and can offer many benefits to those who play it regularly.

Improved Focusing and Decision Making Skills

Poker requires a lot of concentration and quick thinking, which is why it can help you to develop a range of useful mental skills that will prove useful in your everyday life. These include focusing on multiple things at once, developing longer attention spans and being able to multitask well.

Socialising and New Friends

Poker can be a great way to make friends and meet new people. It offers opportunities for players to talk to other members of the table, and this can lead to friendships that last a lifetime.

Delaying the development of Alzheimer’s and Dementia

A recent study has found that playing poker can reduce the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s and dementia by as much as 50%. This is because the mental stimulation and function required to play poker can delay degenerative neurological diseases such as these.

Taking the Hard Knocks

A big part of playing poker is learning how to deal with failure. Good players will fold their hand if they get a bad beat, or will learn from their mistakes and move on quickly.

It is also important to understand when it is time to quit a session. If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed, it is best to stop before it gets worse. This will help you avoid wasting money and losing your self-esteem.