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Playing a game can boost your brain? You bet! We'll tell you how in this list.

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Most people play poker first and foremost because it’s fun. But poker is also a brain game that requires equal amounts of skill, focus and attention. Of course these qualities are also vital to success in life at large. Following are some of the ways poker can make you not just richer, but a smarter and more well-rounded person.

Online Poker Can Reduce Stress

Numerous university studies have shown that online gambling can reduce known markers of stress and help decrease the effects of post-traumatic stress, anxiety and depression.

Poker Encourages Logical Thinking

Intuition and emotion are rarely the best factors to rely on when making decisions. Poker forces one to use logic to guide the next move that will best opponents.

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Poker Develops Patience

Waiting is never easy, but timing in poker is key to getting the most out of your game. An antsy player with a lack of patience will never best one who is cool, calm and controlled.

Poker Enhances Discipline

What good is a strategy or an idea if you don’t have the discipline to carry it out? Poker is a great laboratory in which to practice staying disciplined and keeping your eye on your end goals.

Poker Enhances Concentration

To make the right decisions you need the right information. Poker forces players to focus on differing outcomes and decipher the best plan of attack, both of which require an enormous amount of concentration.

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Poker Can Make You a Better Investor

Calculating odds and assessing risk are essential skills to becoming a good financial investor. Poker sharpens both of these attributes, say experts in the field of behavioral finance.

Poker Teaches How to Cope With Losses

In poker losing is a fact of the game. No one likes to lose, but the ability to rebound from defeat is an essential quality required to live a fulfilling life. Poker reinforces this lesson every time you sit down to play.

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Must be 21 years or older to participate. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Available in New Jersey.