"THE BENEFITS OF READING - WHY EVERYONE SHOULD PICK UP A BOOK": VORAKA

ORIGINALLY PUBLISHED IN VORAKA

Article Published on: 10 MAR 2023 | www.vorakamagazine.com

Reading is an incredibly beneficial activity that everyone should try to incorporate into their daily routine. Whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, reading has a plethora of benefits that can improve one’s mental and emotional well-being, enhance cognitive functioning, and even improve relationships. Here are just a few reasons why everyone should pick up a book and start reading.

Improves cognitive function

Reading is a complex cognitive task that involves many areas of the brain. Reading regularly can help to improve cognitive function by increasing vocabulary, improving comprehension, and strengthening memory. A study published in the journal Neurology found that people who regularly engaged in mentally stimulating activities, such as reading, had a slower rate of cognitive decline than those who did not.

Reduces stress

Reading has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. A study published in the journal PLOS ONE found that reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. Reading can also be a form of escapism, allowing people to immerse themselves in another world and temporarily forget about their own stresses and worries.

Photo by Antoni Shkraba

Expands knowledge and understanding

Reading is an excellent way to learn about new topics and expand one’s knowledge and understanding of the world. Whether it’s a work of fiction that transports readers to a different time and place or a non-fiction book that explores a new topic, reading can help to broaden one’s perspective and understanding of the world around them.

Photo by Element5 Digital

Enhances empathy and emotional intelligence

Reading can also help to enhance empathy and emotional intelligence. Fiction, in particular, has been shown to improve social cognition and empathy by allowing readers to experience and relate to different characters and their experiences. A study published in the journal Science found that reading literary fiction can improve readers’ ability to understand other people’s emotions and mental states.

Boosts creativity

Reading can also boost creativity by exposing readers to new ideas, perspectives, and ways of thinking. A study published in the Creativity Research Journal found that reading fiction can improve creative thinking and idea generation. Reading can also inspire creativity by sparking new ideas and providing a platform for exploring new topics and concepts.

Photo by Mikhail Nilov

Strengthens relationships

Reading can also be a great way to strengthen relationships. Sharing a love of reading with others can help to create common ground and shared experiences. Joining a book club or reading group can also be a great way to meet new people and form connections with like-minded individuals.

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

Enhances overall wellbeing

Reading has been linked to overall well-being and happiness. A study published in the Journal of Health and Social Behavior found that reading for pleasure can provide a sense of relaxation, escape, and overall well-being. Reading has also been shown to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Photo by cottonbro studio

Reading is an incredibly beneficial activity that everyone should try to incorporate into their daily routine. From improving cognitive function and reducing stress to expanding knowledge and understanding and boosting creativity, the benefits of reading are vast and varied. By making time to read regularly, individuals can improve their mental and emotional well-being, enhance their cognitive functioning, and improve their overall quality of life.