While learning easy magic tricks is a fun way to entertain friends and family, the art of magic offers a whole lot more than just entertainment. From improving critical thinking skills and enhancing creativity to fine tuning public speaking and increasing observation, enrolling in professional magic lessons can work wonders for the mind – and the body.
So, what exactly are the benefits of learning magic?
Magic is an inclusive art form with endless possibilities. You can begin learning magic at any age and professional magician Chris Whitelock hosts classes for anyone aged 6 and older. It is especially beneficial for children to take magic lessons early on as studies show it has a positive impact on their overall growth and development. In adults, you’ll find that the skills you gain from learning magic can be applied to daily life.
Although magic involves illusions and tricks, there is always a logical explanation behind the mystery. You will often find yourself trying to figure out the trick and this requires careful observation, analysis and problem-solving. Similarly, when performing magic, you need the same sort of skill set.
Unpicking how a magic trick works – whether you’re learning it yourself or watching someone else’s – means that you have to think logically and laterally – which develops your critical thinking ability.
Learning magic tricks pushes you out of your comfort zone and gives you a goal to achieve. By mastering sleight of hand magic or developing your close up magic skills, you will boost self confidence and feel rewarded when your tricks are well received by an audience. Even as an adult you may struggle with self-confidence and through magic lessons, you will become more confident in showcasing your unique skill set. This will also help you to hone in on your interpersonal skills and presentation skills which can enhance both your personal and professional life.
Living in the age of social media can be tiring both mentally and physically. Magic forces you to take a break from your phone and learn something new. Creating a good magic trick is like solving a puzzle and gives your brain a full workout that sharpens the mind and keeps you on your toes. Learning magic offers the similar benefits to brain teasers – but it’s a whole lot more fun!
As an adult, you tend to have a ton of responsibilities and your mind is thinking about ten things at once. Practising a simple magic trick enables you to enter a state of mindfulness where you are focused on achieving a certain goal. For instance, when learning a tricky sleight of hand card trick, you are required to concentrate on the challenge at hand.
In fact, magic can be so beneficial to one’s mental state that magic tricks are being taught to mental health patients to boost their self-esteem.
Learning magic tricks allows you to embrace your inner curiosity and you are encouraged to try new things. As a child, you are fearless in this regard, but as you grow older, your sense of wonder starts to diminish. Learning magic tricks helps to spark creativity and inspire original thinking.
Interestingly, studies have revealed possible connections between watching or performing magic tricks and creativity, particularly flexible thinking. One study explored the influence of magic performance on design creativity and one of the conclusions was that learning magic principles promotes divergent thinking – a thought process used to generate creative ideas.
Most people will go their entire lives without being exposed to magic so taking magic classes not only adds a bit of fun to your own life, you’ll also be able to entertain others. Finally nailing down a trick and performing it for others is a rewarding experience like no other. Magic also acts as the perfect ice breaker and knowing a few magic tricks is one of the best ways to stand out from the crowd and bring people together.
To reap the benefits of magic and acquire many life skills, join award-winning international magician Chris Whitelock who teaches the knowledge, power, and tricks through his lessons for adults, children and beginners alike. He believes that from ages 6 to 106 you’re never too young, you’re never too old, and you’re never too ‘cool’ to learn and enjoy magic.
So if you’re wondering what to get friends or family for Christmas – why not give the gift of magic lessons? It’s unique, enjoyable and the magic tricks learned can be shared at Christmas parties and get-togethers.
Get in touch today to book magic classes for yourself or a loved one for a ton of fun during the festive season!