For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved reading a good book. There’s just something about holding a physical copy of a book in your hands and having the opportunity to escape into a fictional world or expand your knowledge through non-fiction.
There are so many benefits to picking up a good book that can help improve your overall wellbeing and mental health.
Escapism
One of my favourite things about reading is being able to escape. This mainly happens when I read fiction books. It gives me a chance to get outside the chaos that is my mind and into another world. I love being able to have that quiet time away from my thoughts and get to grips with a different story. It can be a great way to bring a sense of calm and help reduce stress by letting go of any tension you may be feeling beforehand.
Mental stimulation
Reading is one of the greatest ways you can exercise your mind in a fun and easy way. Through reading, whether it’s non-fiction or fiction, you’re working your brain by trying to figure things out, as well as learning and building on your knowledge. Reading helps to keep your brain active and keeping it working without pushing it too hard.
Learning
I’m very much into my self-help and motivational books. There’s just something about having a sit down with a self-help book each week and learning something new to try to improve your life. A good book gives us a chance to learn something new, whether that’s a life lesson or a new skill, it can expand our wisdom over time. Books help to get us thinking and preparing to face any challenges that may come our way.
Fun
Of course, reading a good book is a lot of fun! If you’re a homebody or someone who just loves reading in their pass time, then you will know how entertaining reading can be. It can provide so much enjoyment. It’s also a great pass time and you can literally do it absolutely anywhere at any time, like on the train to work or in bed before you head off to sleep. It’s so accessible!
Empathy
Depending on the type of books you opt to read, reading can really help to improve your empathy towards others. If you’ve been reading a true story based on a person’s struggle through their life or a novel that touches on a lot of hardship, then the more you read and learn about these characters or the situations they face, the greater your understanding will be. In time your response to people’s emotions will be better.
Increases creativity
I spend a lot of my time writing and creating content for various different outlets. Without reading I probably wouldn’t be so in love with writing. Reading a good book definitely helps to boost your creativity by opening your mind to new ideas and alternative scenarios. When I’ve noticed I’m experiencing writer’s block, once I’ve had a good read of other blogs or books, I’ve found myself then bursting with inspiration and creativity.
What do you find the most beneficial from reading?
You’ve pretty much covered everything!
Mariya | http://www.brunetteondemand.com
Thank you xx
There`s nothing more relaxing than spending a few good hours, reading a good book. You learn so much, and in those moments, you forget about everything that annoys you IRL.
Beauty Nerd
Yes most definitely! I love it when you can’t put a book down because it’s THAT good!!xx
I used to read so much as a child but as I’ve gotten older I’ve really neglected it which is a shame as its something I love to do. I love that you can escape into a whole new world when reading a good book!
Lucy | Forever September
I don’t read as much as I used to either, but when I do, I remember how much I enjoy it!xx
I’m not a big reader but I’ve always wanted to be because I know it has so many benefits! I think I’m going to start looking for some good books!
Chloe X http://chloelxuise.com
It is definitely something you either love or hate, but once you get into it, you really do feel the benefits!xx
This is such a great post! I got back into reading at the beginning of the year and it’s made such a difference!
Anika | anikamay.co.uk
Aww thank you, Anika! It’s definitely such a good thing to do and keep up with regularly xx
You can learn so much from reading! X from #grlpowr! Kthetop14.blogspot.com
Most definitely, Kim xx
I couldn’t agree more, I really enjoy reading not only to entertain but also growing ourselves. Great post!
Aww thanks so much!xx
Being able to escape and explore the worlds writers have created are my top reasons why I love reading so much! Relieving stress is another one, which is probably why I usually go for books that are fun and try to stay away from horror stories etc. I’m currently reading The Runaway Princess by Hester Browne which has been amazing so far xx
Anu | Based On blog
Aw, that’s so lovely to hear, Anu! The Runaway Princess sound’s like a great read xx