Poker requires intense concentration. You must constantly focus on both the cards and your opponents’ body language (if playing in a physical environment) to make good decisions. It can be very difficult to master poker, especially at the highest stakes. You must be willing to lose hands on bad beats, to play conservatively or aggressively at the wrong times, and to bet big or small depending on your situation. You must also be able to ignore the temptation of calling an opponent’s all in raise when you have a better hand, or bluffing when it is unlikely to succeed. These are the challenges that can derail even the most talented players.
In poker you are dealing with incomplete information, and therefore must balance risk vs reward. The numbers you see in training videos and software output become ingrained in your poker brain, and concepts like frequencies and EV estimation will quickly be an automatic consideration in your decision making.
Whether playing in a traditional casino, or at a home game, you will be exposed to a social environment that will improve your communication and social skills. In addition, the competitive nature of poker has been shown to increase mental health and well-being by producing an adrenaline rush that can provide a boost in energy levels, and relieve stress. In addition, the regular exercise involved in the game can help reduce the risk of heart disease and lower blood pressure.