There are no extra pieces in the universe. Everyone is here because they have a place to fill, and every piece must fit into the big jigsaw puzzle” – profound words by the famed spiritual guru, Deepak Chopra.
The above quote holds the essence of and answers the question about existentialism, which we have thought about in our lifetime—the reason we are born and have questioned our existence.
There are numerous puzzles available for us to choose from based on our preferences and needs. Awareness of mental health and the various issues that plague the human brain has resulted in the development of unique jigsaw puzzles addressing specific needs and purposes.
Our general approach towards jigsaw puzzles is that they are a game or an activity to pass the time. The fact is that jigsaw puzzles, along with being an exciting and fun game, also have immense benefits for our health, especially our minds, and hold meaningful life lessons.
Let us take a look at some valuable life lessons we can derive from doing the best jigsaw puzzles.
1. A meditative aspect
Jigsaw puzzles are an individualistic activity. It is a time to sit by yourself, devoid of the distractions we usually allow to intrude on our life and work. This activity presents a time when we are away from gadgets, giving our overworked minds and bodies much-needed time, space, and rest. Benefits akin to the benefits we derive from practices like yoga or meditation. The brain is focused on deciphering the puzzle and dedicated to finding the pieces to complete the picture. An extremely meditative activity, it is a must-needed respite from the fast-paced, stress-ridden life.
2. The value of structure and boundaries in life
The first thing we do when we begin doing a jigsaw puzzle is to find the pieces to build the framework. We often get lost in the many distractions and the minute details of life, often forgetting our actual path or taking too long to resolve the elements, thus slowing down our progress and, in the process, exhausting ourselves. Jigsaw puzzles teach us to keep the goal clearly in sight, and for that, it is essential to build a structure to support our goal with a practical approach, keeping the unnecessary details and distractions at bay. The many pieces of the best jigsaw puzzles may be overwhelming when we begin till we choose to stick to the goal at hand and start focusing on finding the relevant details to begin giving shape to the picture. The lesson from the puzzle tells us to address one aspect or problem at a time and find solutions for it before moving on to the next task or issue.
3. Small things matter:
A vital life lesson – to value the small things and gestures that enrich our lives, bringing profound meaning to them. Imagine wanting to form the final picture of the puzzle without paying attention to the many small pieces. It is not possible. Similarly, one needs meaningful small moments and actions to make living worthwhile to complete life’s big picture. The quest for success and material wealth can become so addictive that we do not value the importance of family, friends, smiles, self-love, rest, health, and many more aspects of human life that make it precious. And one day, we reach success, with all the riches in the world but no one to share our moments, joys, and sorrows with or to keep us company. Don’t live for moments; live for every moment.
4. Go with the Flow:
We often hold a specific idea of our life and plan our life accordingly to fulfil this idea. The adage, “life happens while we are busy making plans,” is true, whether we accept it. But life does not follow our diktats because it flows unhindered and free without following human-made plans. Jigsaw puzzles teach us one of the most profound and necessary lessons about life by telling us that it is essential to step back and carry the flow. By focusing on a particular outcome, we close ourselves to other possibilities and opportunities that might be right in front of us or within our reach. Because you are focused on only a particular side, looking for a specific piece of the puzzle will make you pass over many elements that might help you complete the puzzle faster. So, stopping now and then and revising your perspective will make the journey smoother and more rewarding.
