Using Dominoes to Create Positive Change
Dominoes, sometimes called bones, cards, men, or pieces, are a set of rectangular blocks of various shapes and colors. Each domino has two square ends with a number or symbol written on them. These values, normally ranging from six to blank, indicate the rank or weight of each end. When stacked on their side, dominos are usually twice as long as they are wide. They are normally used to play games of chance and skill, and may be referred to as the game of domino or simply dominoes.
One of the best known games of domino is to create a chain reaction where one tile knocks over the next without any intervention from other players. This is called the Domino Effect. In life, it can be a powerful tool for creating positive changes and habits. One example of the Domino Effect occurred in 2012 when researchers from Northwestern University found that when a person decreased their amount of sedentary leisure time, they were more likely to decrease their fat intake as well. A shift in one behavior triggered a shift in related behaviors, like making more healthy food choices.
The most important thing to remember when playing domino is that every domino has potential energy based on its position. A domino standing upright has a certain inertia, which means that it will resist any outside forces that try to move it. However, once the first domino is knocked over, much of its potential energy is converted into kinetic energy — the energy of motion. That movement paves the way for other tiles to fall, continuing in a chain reaction that is difficult to stop.
A person can use dominoes to create a variety of artistic designs, from straight lines and curved lines to grids that form pictures when they fall or 3D structures such as towers and pyramids. Domino art can also be a great way to practice basic math skills or to simply have fun with a family or group of friends.
If you’re looking to add some domino fun to your home, a domino set can be purchased from most retailers. There are many different types of sets available, from the traditional double-nine to larger extended sets that include more than 91 tiles. There are even special sets that come with a magnetic base so you can set them up on the fridge. For the best results, you’ll want to make sure that your dominos are made from quality materials so they will last for years of gaming pleasure. A good place to start is by choosing a set that has been made from natural wood or plastic. This type of domino is typically lighter and will stand up to the rigors of daily household use. You can find a variety of these sets on the Internet or at most toy stores. You can also purchase them from specialty stores that specialize in dominos or some discount or department stores.