Sometimes we just need to relax, kick up our feet and rest. But not all sedentary activities are equal when it comes to the brain. A study conducted by researchers at the University of South Australia looked at 397 adults over 60-years-old and found that some sedentary activity had a more positive impact on the brain than other sedentary activity.

Specifically, sedentary behaviors that offer social or mental stimulation had a more positive impact on the brain than those that did not offer the same stimulation. What kind of sedentary behaviors are not socially or mentally stimulating and so lacking in positive impact? Watching TV or playing video games.

On the other hand, activities that offer social and mental stimulation include activities like reading, listening to music, crafting, playing a musical instrument, praying, or talking with others. These activities proved beneficial for memory and thinking abilities.

This study involved people over 60-years-old. However, I believe we would find similar results in people of all ages. Physical activities (previous studies have shown that physical activity is also beneficial for the brain and a “strong protector against dementia risk” for the elderly) and socially and mentally stimulating sedentary activities offer greater benefits for our brains and our cognitive functioning, no matter our age. So, next time you want to relax, kick your feet up and rest, why not do so with a good book or a good friend rather than vegging out alone in front of the TV? Spend a little time praying, crafting, or engaged in music rather than playing a video game. In fact, teach your whole family to take care of their brain through socially and mentally stimulating sedentary activities. Engage in them together—talking together, crafting together, reading together, praying together…your brain and your family’s brain will thank you.