I believe that RPGs--while possibly not unique in this regard--are at least on a short list of past times that manage to stimulate both sides of our brains at the same time.
When we're playing an RPG--even a computer or video game version--we're using our imaginations to picture settings, characters, battles, and proper dialogue choices. Meanwhile, our left side is doing the number crunching, measurement, problem solving and resource management. Other mental activities such as: expressing emotions, showing empathy, use or lack of use of logic, and enjoying reciprocal feelings of camaraderie and respect are all happening when we play...and happening at the same time whether we realize it or not.
What's happening at the table doesn't even take into account the mental gymnastics required outside of the game to make a campaign a success. You are always planning for the next session, managing your schedule and hopefully showing up for said session, researching new products and engaging with the broader community of hobby enthusiasts--such as during RPG a Day and maybe most importantly, navigating the "unique" personalities one runs into at any given table.
Personally, after most sessions, my mind is still racing and I often need a melatonin or something to slow it down. I don't get this feeling from anything else I do...let's just hope it's good for us.
Tomorrow...Engage
When we're playing an RPG--even a computer or video game version--we're using our imaginations to picture settings, characters, battles, and proper dialogue choices. Meanwhile, our left side is doing the number crunching, measurement, problem solving and resource management. Other mental activities such as: expressing emotions, showing empathy, use or lack of use of logic, and enjoying reciprocal feelings of camaraderie and respect are all happening when we play...and happening at the same time whether we realize it or not.
What's happening at the table doesn't even take into account the mental gymnastics required outside of the game to make a campaign a success. You are always planning for the next session, managing your schedule and hopefully showing up for said session, researching new products and engaging with the broader community of hobby enthusiasts--such as during RPG a Day and maybe most importantly, navigating the "unique" personalities one runs into at any given table.
Personally, after most sessions, my mind is still racing and I often need a melatonin or something to slow it down. I don't get this feeling from anything else I do...let's just hope it's good for us.
Tomorrow...Engage
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