Can Board Games Reduce Stress? Science Says Yes!

If you’ve ever curled up on a rainy day with a warm drink and a good board game, you probably won’t be surprised by this: board games are good for your wellbeing. Really good. In fact, science now backs up what many of us have always felt, that board games aren’t just fun, they can help us relax, recharge, and reconnect.

In our family, board games have become our little escape. They give us permission to slow down, laugh, and focus on something joyful. And I’ve come to believe that they’re not just a pastime, they’re self-care in disguise.

The Science Behind the Fun

Let’s start with the facts. Studies have shown that playing games can:

• Reduce cortisol levels (that’s the stress hormone!)

• Increase feelings of connection and belonging

• Boost cognitive function and focus

• Improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety

It makes sense, doesn’t it? When you’re deeply focused on solving a puzzle, building your bamboo garden in Takenoko, or trying not to explode in Exploding Kittens, your mind isn’t running through your to-do list or tomorrow’s worries. You’re just… present.

And in today’s world, being present is a rare gift.

Why Board Games Work

Board games offer something that screens and scrolling can’t: genuine connection. Whether you're playing with family, friends, or even joining a local board game night (yes, you should!), games invite us to talk, laugh, and work together, or compete in the friendliest way possible.

There’s something so grounding about opening a box, shuffling some cards, and hearing someone say “Whose turn is it?” It takes us out of autopilot and into the moment.

And not every game needs to be high-stakes or complicated. Sometimes just sitting down with something simple like Dream Home, Ticket to Ride, or Patchwork can help shift your mindset completely.

A Relaxing Alternative to Screens

So many of us reach for a screen when we’re feeling overwhelmed, but it rarely helps. We scroll, we swipe, we scroll some more, and suddenly it’s 10pm and we still feel tired and tense.

Board games offer a healthier, more mindful way to unwind. They give your eyes a break, your brain a challenge, and your heart a bit of joy. Plus, they’re a wonderful way to spend time with the people you care about.

Make It Easy with Love Board Games

I started Love Board Games because I wanted more people to experience this kind of joy and relaxation, without the pressure of spending £40 on a game you might not play more than once.

With our board game subscription service, you can borrow board games each month and explore all sorts of styles, strategic, silly, calming, competitive, without the cost or commitment.

Whether you’re looking for something relaxing like Dorfromantik, creative like Canvas, or co-operative like Pandemic, we’ve got something for every mood.

Plans start at just £19.95/month, and you can have up to 2, 4, or 6 games each month depending on your plan. It's an affordable way to enjoy a variety of games and find your favourites.

Take Time to Play

If life has felt a little heavy lately, I genuinely recommend setting aside an evening for a board game. Choose something light-hearted, make a cup of tea, and just play. You’ll be surprised how quickly the tension fades and the laughter flows.

Stress relief doesn’t have to come in a bottle, a yoga class, or a meditation app. Sometimes, it comes in a box with dice, cards, and cardboard tokens.

So go ahead, give it a try. And if you want to try something new without breaking the bank, you can always borrow from us.

👉 LoveBoardGames.co.uk