Poker is a card game that puts a player’s analytical, mathematical and interpersonal skills to the test. It is also a game that indirectly teaches important life lessons.

For instance, when playing poker you learn how to determine the quality of your opponent’s hand, a skill that can be useful in any number of situations away from the table. You also develop your math skills, not just in the 1+1=2 way, but because you have to quickly work out odds in your head as each new card comes into play.

Then there is the fact that you have to be able to read other players and pick up on their “tells,” which are the small nuances in a player’s behavior that reveal information about their hand strength. Those who are good at this can sometimes even steal pots from other players!

Finally, you learn to be flexible and creative in order to make the most of the cards you have and to adapt to the changing circumstances at the table. This can be helpful in problem-solving outside of poker as well, especially if you need to find unique solutions to complex problems. All this brain power can also mean that you’re tired at the end of a game, which is great if you want to get a good night’s sleep! So, in a sense, poker is actually a very good health booster. Not to mention a great way to socialize with friends!