What Stimulates Your Brain?

My major way to stimulate my brain after I retired was to return to college.  I wanted a degree,  When I graduated high school (over 60 years ago) my parents said girls don't need a degree, just training in 'something' in case some future husband was out of work and I had to support him.  When I finally retired, I decided to get a bachelor's degree.  Four years later, with a degree on my wall, I continued on to a master's degree, and finally, at age 78, a  PhD.  Yes, that kept my brain very active.  Then I wrote articles for newspapers until recently.  What next?  We'll see.  

@Rhymesometimes:  To answer  your question, I got my PhD in Natural Medicine, and before that a Masters in Herbology.  That knowledge really helps when western doctors try to stuff toxic chemicals into me and I can counter them with "WHY?".  I use my knowledge to write newspaper articles,  as well as to care for my own health.

I've fallen in love with the new kind of board games like Settlers of Catan, Dominion, Lords of Waterdeep, and my favorite, Terraforming Mars.   They are nothing like the boring games we all played as kids.  They are different every time you play.  Each one seems to 'tickle' a different part of my brain.  Some can be played solo  (which helped me get through the pandemic with my sanity intact).  Many can be played online, but I've never tried it; I like the social component (and being social is another brain stimulator for me). 

This thread has become a really good list of 'Things to do to stay sharp'.  The only thing I can add is Billiards...I was fortunate to inherit the table that my father acquired when he first settled down and started a family.  Strategy, tactics, geometry, physics and lots of brightly colored balls.

Learning 

It's important to challenge the brain with different kinds of tasks and make time for activities that bring you joy, like socializing or creating something new. At Amen Clinics, we emphasize the importance of mental and physical exercise for brain health. Regularly doing things that require focus, movement, and creativity can really help keep your mind sharp and improve your overall well-being.