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No matter how old we are, we should keep our minds active with exercises that enhance our cognitive function. Riddles and brain teasers are such brain-boosting activities that are fun and help sharpen our minds, as they break out of our usual patterns of thinking, and have a little fun in the process. Brain teasers have been long known for their ability to enhance brain health. Hence, we’ve got you a puzzle that will tease your brain’s capacity and make you think more.

The Riddle:

At first glance, this puzzle seems contradictory. After all, if A is B’s father, doesn’t that automatically make B A’s son? But as with many great riddles, the answer is simple yet clever.

The answer is that B is the daughter of A. Yes, A is indeed B’s father, but the riddle never specified that B had to be male. The clever wording makes us assume that "not a son" could imply something mysterious, but in reality, it’s a simple play on gender expectations.

Why Riddles Like This Work

Riddles like these engage us because they test not just our logical thinking but also our biases and preconceived notions. In this case, the riddle capitalizes on the assumption that children are sons by default when no other details are provided. It subtly challenges traditional gender expectations, creating a "gotcha" moment that’s both amusing and enlightening.

Studies have shown that engaging with riddles and brain teasers is beneficial for our mental agility. These puzzles encourage us to look at problems from multiple perspectives, which can be especially helpful in developing cognitive flexibility. They make us question assumptions, a skill that’s valuable not only in riddles but in real-life problem-solving as well.

Language plays a huge role in the effectiveness of riddles. Puzzles like "A is the father of B, but B is not the son of A" rely on specific word choices to create a misleading but grammatically correct statement. This type of phrasing forces us to examine each word closely, making us realize how language can shape our understanding in subtle ways.

Why Are Brain Teasers Good For Mental Health?Brain teasers are more than just a fun way to pass the time—they can contribute to keeping your mental health in check.

1. Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Solving puzzles encourages concentration on the task at hand, creating a meditative-like state that can lower anxiety levels. It can help calm the mind and provide a temporary escape from stressors.

2. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills

Brain teasers challenge you to think creatively and critically. Over time, this strengthens your ability to tackle real-life problems more effectively. The puzzles help enhance logical thinking, improve decision-making abilities, and enhance cognitive flexibility.

3. Boosts Confidence and Self-Esteem

Successfully solving brain teasers gives a sense of accomplishment. This feeling of success boosts confidence and self-esteem. The reward system in the brain is triggered when you solve a puzzle, releasing dopamine, a neurotransmitter linked to pleasure and motivation.

4. Improves Memory and Cognitive Function

Regularly engaging in brain teasers can improve memory, attention span, and overall cognitive function. Mental exercises like puzzles encourage the brain's ability to think harder.

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