NYT Strands is the new obsession for word puzzle lovers. This game is a captivating hunt for a secret theme hidden in a chaotic grid. If today’s puzzle has you stumped, don’t worry—we’ve got the clues and answers you need to solve the mystery. Here is “Zen State” Today’s NYT Strands #696 Hints and Answers for January 28, 2026

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“Zen State” NYT Strands #696 Hints for January 28, 2026

Here are today’s NYT Strands hints for you.

Today’s NYT Strand’s theme is: “ Zen State. “

While many words may reveal themselves to you, the game’s objective is to find words related to the day’s theme.

  • Strands hint No. 1: These actions are all centered around finding your inner “zen” and grounding yourself in the present.
  • Strands hint No. 2: The list includes essential biological and mental functions used to calm the nervous system.
  • Strands hint No. 3: MI, FO, RE, LI, NO, BR, ME

You don’t need another hint for today’s Strands puzzle.

Today’s NYT Strands #696 Answer for January 28, 2026

  • Spangram word – MINDFULNESS
  • Remaining words : Focus, Relax, Listen, Notice, Breathe, Meditate

Today’s Strands was a breath of fresh air, offering a cohesive and calming experience that felt very intentional. The layout of the board allowed for a natural flow, much like the theme itself, where one word seemed to gently lead into the next without too much mental friction. While some puzzles rely on obscure trivia, this one tapped into a universal set of practices that everyone can relate to, making the moment feel more like a sigh of relief. It’s a beautifully constructed grid that rewards a patient, steady approach rather than a frantic search. I’d rate it 3 out of 5.

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How did you like today’s NYT Strands puzzle? Easy, hard, or meh?

You can also check out today’s answers for other NYT puzzles :

  • NYT Wordle Answers
  • NYT PIPS Answers
  • NYT Connections Answers
  • NYT Mini Crossword Answers

NYT Strands Rules

NYT Strands is a word game that is played on a 6×8 letter grid containing seemingly random letters. Each letter must be used in some way so that when all the words have been found, the board is full, leaving no letter unused.

Each puzzle has a theme, but you don’t know what the theme is. A hint is provided at the start of the game. You must guess all the common theme-related words that have something in common, leading to the Spangram.

Spangram is a special challenge word or base of the theme. All the words, when solved, are denoted in blue except the Spangram, which is denoted in yellow when guessed correctly and touches two ends of the board, side to side or top to bottom. Spangram denotes what’s common between all the other words on the board.

Note: Players can find non-theme words to earn hints. Every 3 non-theme words will unlock a hint.