Lifestyle & Entertainment
5 Reasons to Start Reading Again
By Tammy Sofranic
Do you even remember the last time you read a book? Or have you fallen off the reading bandwagon? Chances are, many of us need to spend more time reading. Unsurprisingly, with so much bite-size content and information coming our way, there's less time and need to sit down and read a book.
But did you know that there is numerous scientific evidence on the benefits of reading? When you hear about all the benefits, you will want to squeeze some time into your day for at least a 20-minute read.
Here's why:
1. Brain Power
So far, many scientific studies have proven that reading is fantastic mental stimulation for your brain.
You develop memory by remembering characters, settings, plots, twists and connections. By keeping engaged and following the story, you are improving your ability to focus, which is ever decreasing in today's world. Reading stimulates the brain and keeps it active, which slows down the development of mental disorders such as Alzheimer's and Dementia.
Just as we train and move to keep our bodies healthy, reading keeps our brains strong and healthy!
2. Less Stress
If you're looking to escape reality, intrusive thoughts or imaginary scenarios in your head, grab a good book.
Interestingly, a study at the University of Sussex showed that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%! Just six minutes into reading, your heart rate slows, your blood pressure lowers, and your muscles relax—similar to yoga or deep breathing.
Focusing on reading without interruptions will reap those benefits, so grab that book, find a cozy, quiet corner, and enjoy yourself.
3. Better Writing Skills
The ability to write is in the parietal lobe, which activates while reading. As you read, your brain stores the linguistic style of the books you read, which helps you absorb the compilation of word choices and writing techniques.
Your writing skills will develop and improve as you read more, so try!
4. Stronger Vocabulary
Another proven benefit of reading is enhanced vocabulary. If you're using a lot of filler words while you speak, such as "like" and "uhm"", it might be a sign that your vocabulary needs a bit of love and care, and reading can help with this. Reading any book can help improve and enrich your vocabulary.
A well-spoken person makes a more confident, professional impression. It will help you become a more exciting storyteller, easily make friends, and impress at job interviews.
5. More Knowledge
Whatever genre you're reading or even if you read recipes, newspapers or articles, you are learning new things. Inevitably, reading will bring more new information your way.
As you read, you might be inspired, get ideas about solving your problems, or think of innovative approaches or solutions. This can help you in life in general, in everyday situations, and in making wiser decisions.
Are you feeling inspired? If so, head to the bookshop, the library, or even that dusty shelf in your house and grab a book that sparks curiosity.
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