We already know that reading can make you smarter, but there are many more benefits to this activity that we can happily embrace. Researchers found that reading is one of the best ways to relieve stress and may even help prevent certain types of dementia. One easy way we can fulfill that promise of taking care of our mind, body and soul need not look further than our bookshelf.
1. IT CALMS US DOWN
When we are feeling anxious and overwhelmed, the best cure to calm our nerves is with a book. A 2009 study at the University of Sussex showed that reading is the best way to relieve stress, even over activities like a walk or listening to music. Researchers measured the participants’ heart rates and muscle tension and observed that it took six minutes for the readers to de-stress after they started reading. best news? It doesn’t matter what kind of book we read, as long as we stay engrossed in the material.
2. IT MAY PREVENT DISEASES
Research conducted in 2001 by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that people who read more often were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Dr. Robert P. Friedland told USA Today that “the brain is an organ just like every other part of the body. It ages in regards to how it is used. Physical activity such as physical activity strengthens the heart, muscles and bones.” intellectual activity strengthens the brain against disease.”
3. BOOKS HELP US TAP INTO OUR IMAGINATION
Immersing ourselves in another world helps us tap into our imagination, which then fuels our day-to-day creativity. Reading opens us up to new possibilities and ideas that stay with us long after we turn the pages. Flipping through a book that transports us to another world transforms us into better problem solvers, communicators, and critical thinkers.
4. FICTION INCREASES OUR EMPATHY]
The journal PLOS One found that reading fiction can increase our empathy for others. After studying readers who read engaging stories, researchers found that they had increased empathy skills. Investing in a character or story makes us more understanding and aware of the lives and challenges of others, helping us to see through our own beliefs or stereotypes.
5. WE SLEEP BETTER
Reading signals to the mind that it is time to slow down and take some rest. Unlike using our phones or watching TV, there is no bright screen that stimulates our brains. Reading for 15-20 minutes before bed is a great way to relax and prepare for a good night’s sleep.
6. WE’RE SMARTER AFTER READING
Reading enhances our linguistic skills. The more we read, the more vocabulary we encounter. It helps us to be more clear whether we are talking face to face with others or writing down our thoughts on a page. The more facts, situations, terminology and perspectives that are exposed to us, the wiser we become.
7. IT’S POSITIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Although social media or watching TV has its benefits, it’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing or only watch what’s provided on the surface. Reading gives us much needed quiet time to focus on ourselves, experience deep emotions and get lost in the story. Besides, learning something new is entertaining and good for the soul.
