Benefits of Reading a Good Book

Benefits of Reading a Good Book

Reading a good book is one of life’s little pleasures for many of us and we all know that reading is supposed to be for us, but did you know that there are actually specific benefits of reading a good book? These benefits are not just old wives’ tales or something our mothers told us when we were young to keep us quiet and encourage our reading but researched based and proven benefits.

 Here are just a few of the reasons why you should go and pick up a book: 

1. Reading can help reduce stress.

We all live busy lives and sometimes it can be difficult to find time to relax and wind down. However, reading has been shown to be an effective way to reduce stress. In fact, one study, conducted by the University of Sussex, found that just six minutes of reading can help reduce stress levels by a whopping 68%. 

Researchers involved in the study think that the act of reading distracts your brain away from the churning over the stresses and worries and of daily life; what better reason to pick up a book than this?

2. Reading can improve your memory and focus.

If you find yourself struggling to concentrate or remember things, reading can help. Studies have shown that reading can improve memory and focus, as well as increase brain activity. This keeps your brain young and active and is an efficient way of training or exercising your brain. 

3. Reading can help fight depression.

Depression is a serious condition that can have a major impact on your life. However, studies have shown (most notably conducted by the Reading Agency) that reading can help fight depression, as it can provide a distraction from negative thoughts and help promote positive thinking and an active imagination. 

4. Reading can improve your writing skills.

If you want to improve your writing skills, reading is a great way to do it. It is no secret that any great writer you may look up to, or admire the works of, are well read and often take inspiration from their predecessors.

Reading a variety of books of a mix of genres helps to improve grammar and vocabulary, as well as giving you a better understanding of writing structure and the art of storytelling. By picking up and immersing yourself in a good book, you could be developing hidden skills you didn’t know you had. Who knows? You could become the next Edgar Allen Poe or Charlotte Bronte with a little honing of your skills. 

It is a fact that reading has many benefits and can improve mental health when undertaken on a regular basis. A good book can transport you anywhere you would like to go. A different era? A new planet?  An adventure through Middle Earth? A book can take you there. 

So, what are you waiting for? Go and pick up a good book now and start improving your life!