Apps that enhance your brain power

While playing basic vector games on your phone when stuck in traffic may seem like the most rewarding way of overcoming boredom, there are better ways to kill time than running through temples or crushing candy. One such alternative for the smartphone bugs is playing brain teaser games. Brain teasers have been around for a while, even before taking the form of smartphone apps. Solving puzzles, doing IQ tests or learning new words have long existed in the form of Scrabble, hundred piece puzzles, or solving analytical problems in various standardized tests. They not only increase your mental strength but can also improve memory and make your brain run through information faster. In the form of apps, these kinds of games have become far more interesting and visually captivating to help you learn something through procrastination. Here are four apps you could try out:

Word Search (Android, iOS)

A personal favorite of yours truly, this game will be likely to keep you occupied for a good amount of time given its addictive nature. The layout of the game is simple. There will a spread of letters on a page and you'll have to find all the possible words from the spread as fast as possible. This game will not only help you build your vocabulary but will also allow your brain to stay sharp and responsive.

Elevate (Android, iOS)

This game is specifically designed to help you stay more focused, improve your memory and your speaking skills. The app provides a personalized training program for each user to help everyone get a more thorough training in critical cognitive skills. The game has a free version and a 14 day free trial for the paid version.

Lumosity (Android, iOS)

Perhaps the most popular brain teaser app of the bunch, Lumosity consists of well-designed puzzle games that help keep you mentally alert and active. The adult version consists of over 40 different games designed to enhance your critical thinking, memory building and problem-solving skills. The app also helps you set your baseline score, to see how well you perform among people of your age-group.

Happify (Android, iOS)

While it's important to improve your brain skills, an important part of taking care of your mind is keeping your mental health in check. This app helps you do exactly that. Happify consists of games that will help you reduce stress and improve your mental health. You can even keep track of your progress and create a personalized program according to your needs.