Chess in Life and Recovery

One of my inspirations for creating All Kinds of Finds comes from the game of chess. As a novice chess player, I’ve found that the game offers numerous benefits, such as relaxation, stress relief, enhanced focus, and mental stimulation. Over the past year and a half, as I’ve navigated challenging medical treatments that have kept me from being very active, chess has been a lifeline. It’s helped me stay mentally sharp and has provided a much-needed distraction for my anxious mind.

I first learned chess as a child, and my enjoyment for the game has only grown over the years. I remember imagining epic battles unfolding as the pieces moved across the board. Now, as an adult with a deeper understanding of the game, I’ve come to appreciate the beauty in its strategies and tactics. There’s something profoundly satisfying about setting up a devastating fork with a well-placed knight, using a pin to gain the upper hand, a discovery check or even a bold sacrifice to win a queen (my favorite). 

Beyond the gameplay, chess also connects me to history. It’s incredible to think that this timeless game has been played for centuries by some of the great shakers and movers of the past. There’s a certain elegance and sense of tradition that a chessboard brings to a room—especially a wooden set like the one we showcase as one of our “finds.”

A chessboard doesn’t just serve as a tool for playing; it enhances the energy of a space. Its calm, focused presence makes it a beautiful decorative piece, even for those who don’t play. And for those who do or want to learn, it’s an invitation to dive into a game that’s as rewarding as it is challenging.

That’s why I think a chess set makes such a meaningful gift. It can simply be an aesthetic addition to a room, or it can spark a love for the game in someone new. Chess truly is a gift that keeps on giving—bringing joy, focus, and connection into our lives.