Most people have a natural inclination to have only one dominant hand, however it is possible to train to use both equally effectively. The first thing to do is get used to using the weak hand in daily activities. Then move on to practicing more difficult movements, such as those needed for writing and drawing.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Learn to Use the Other Hand
Step 1. Do exercises to strengthen the weak hand and fingers
Your non-dominant hand is likely much less strong than the other, which makes it harder to become ambidextrous. Lift weights every day with your weak hand, making sure you keep a firm grip so your hands are working, not your arms. Increase the loads once the hand gets stronger.
- Weight lifting is one of the best exercises to strengthen your hand, but you can also use a specific tool to strengthen your grip.
- Juggling or just throwing a ball into the air with your weak hand can also help. This will help you use it better and develop better hand-eye coordination.
Step 2. Move the mouse with your weak hand
Changing the hand with which you use the mouse offers many benefits, but the main one is to increase the dexterity of the weak hand. Just move the mouse to the other side of the computer and use it as you normally would.
You can also buy an "ambidextrous" mouse at electronics stores, but it is much easier to use a normal one
advise: Some of the other benefits of using the mouse with the other hand are operating the keyboard with your dominant hand while the mouse is moving, reducing the risk of carpal tunnel and impressing colleagues!
Step 3. Start doing small everyday activities with a weak hand
Use your non-dominant hand to brush your teeth, open doors, wear accessories, or clean the house. Do this whenever you can, so that you get used to using the weak hand.
- Try to do as many things as possible with your weak hand, such as smear the bubble bath on your body when you shower. You may not realize it, but you probably do all those little things with your dominant hand.
- Make sure you brush your teeth properly when using your weak hand. If you are too clumsy, you can wash them badly inadvertently.
- If you play an instrument, try using it with your weak hand and not as you normally do.
Step 4. After a few days, eat and cook with your weak hand
Use your non-dominant hand to move the pots, mix foods and serve them. Hold the cutlery with your weak hand and use it to bring the food to your mouth. You will initially need to do this slowly to keep the bites from falling out, but over time it will get easier!
It is best to get used to simpler actions with your weak hand for a few days, as cooking using boiling water or other hot materials can be dangerous
Step 5. Tie your dominant hand behind your back for constant practice
With this method you will be forced to do everything with only one weak hand. This is a great way to quickly get your mind and body used to using that hand, but you should only try it after a few days of practice.
The easiest way to keep your dominant hand steady is to tie a rope around your wrist and the other end to one of the belt loops behind your pants. It's not easy to do this on your own, so get help if needed
Method 2 of 2: Writing and Drawing with the Weak Hand
Step 1. Hold a pen or pencil with your weak hand as you would with the other
Write with your dominant hand in the mirror to see which is the correct technique: in this way you have a direct visual reference on which method to use and your brain will be able to imagine the same action performed with the weak hand. At that point, practice holding the pen with that hand until you feel comfortable.
Do not squeeze the pen so close that your hand is too close. This way you will not be able to write correctly and may even get hurt
advise: To simplify the exercise, use a pen that glides well on the paper and is comfortable to hold (for example with a rubber grip).
Step 2. Start writing the alphabet with your weak hand
This way you will easily learn to perform the movements required to write. Try to draw precise lines both straight and curved, but don't worry about mistakes at first. Repeat the exercise for at least 10 minutes a day until your movements become more fluid.
- You might get a lot of hand strain at first, but just take a break and try again later. Over time, the tension will disappear.
- Make sure you trace the alphabet with your weak hand with uppercase, lowercase, and italics (if you are able).
Step 3. Start writing the letters without tracing and drawing the basic shapes
Hold a piece of paper on the table and start drawing butterflies, vases, symmetrical objects, letters, shapes and more. Even though your handwriting may seem terrible at first, write a few lines every day. With practice you will improve!
- It may be helpful to purchase a children's writing book and follow those exercises. It's also a good idea to use your weak hand to complete a coloring book.
- As you work out, pay attention to the letters that get you the most and spend more time writing them.
Step 4. Practice writing your name and complete sentences
Your name is probably the movement you're most used to when writing, so it's a great set of letters to practice with. Try to write a paragraph of 3-5 sentences every day, so that you can learn to write better with your weak hand.
Don't write the same paragraph every day. Always change the words, so you don't get used to a single movement
Step 5. Make sure you practice every day to improve
Practice these techniques daily for at least a month or more. You'll soon be writing much better with your weak hand, making few mistakes.
