Playing Tetris as Emotional Therapy in Japan

Playing Tetris as Emotional Therapy in Japan: An Innovative Solution!

In Japan, emotional therapy has found an unexpected ally in the classic video game Tetris. A recent flurry of comments and testimonials on Japanese discussion forums has revealed that this simple but addictive game is being used as a tool to manage stress, anxiety and even traumatic memories.

Tetris and Emotional Distraction

The theory behind this practice is that Tetris can help distract the mind from negative thoughts and painful memories. By focusing on the game, players can divert their attention away from negative emotions and reduce the intensity of their traumatic memories. This phenomenon is known as "cognitive distraction".

User Testimonials

Numerous users have shared their personal experiences with Tetris as a form of emotional therapy:

• Success Stories: Many players have reported feeling calmer and less anxious after playing Tetris. One user commented, "When traumatic memories resurface, playing Tetris helps to blend cognition and avoid an emotional crash."
• The Tetris Abyss: Others noted the game's ability to absorb time and keep the mind busy: "Some time ago I was given an original Game Boy, restored it and bought Tetris... and yes, time dissolves infinitely."

The Science Behind Therapeutic Tetris

The effectiveness of Tetris as a therapeutic tool is not just anecdotal. Studies have suggested that playing Tetris can reduce the frequency of flashbacks associated with trauma, because of how play occupies the brain's cognitive capacity, leaving less room to process painful memories.

Comparisons with Other Distraction Techniques

Tetris is not the only technique used to manage stress and traumatic memories. Other activities mentioned by users include:

• Singing while working: This also keeps the brain engaged and may help reduce the frequency of flashbacks.
• Speaking out loud: A simple but effective technique to dispel intrusive thoughts.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Tetris a therapy recognized by mental health professionals?
Although Tetris does not replace conventional therapies, studies have shown that it can be a useful tool to complement traditional treatments.

2. How long is it advisable to play Tetris to obtain therapeutic benefits?
There is no specific recommended time, but playing for short, regular periods can help keep the mind busy without being too time-consuming.

3. Are there other games that have therapeutic effects similar to Tetris?
Yes, other games that require concentration and problem-solving skills can also have similar therapeutic effects.

Personal Opinion

It is fascinating how a game as simple as Tetris can have such a significant impact on mental health. The game's ability to absorb the player's attention and distract them from negative thoughts is evidence of the power of cognitive distraction. However, it is important to remember that while Tetris can be a useful tool, it should not replace conventional treatments recommended by mental health professionals.

Conclusion

In summary, playing Tetris as emotional therapy is an innovative practice that has proven to be effective for many people in Japan. This phenomenon highlights the importance of cognitive distraction and how simple activities can have a positive impact on our mental health. If you are interested in this topic, we encourage you to try Tetris and see if it benefits you as well. And don't forget to check out our blog for more interesting content on otaku culture, anime and manga!

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