Forget going to gym six days a week or completing an Ironman. The best thing that you can make your New Year’s Resolution this year (albeit a couple of weeks late) is to read more books. Not only is this a more attainable goal than running every day or going cold turkey on sugar, it’s one of the best actions you can take to improve your general well-being.
Reading is brain training
Think of reading like exercise for the brain. Reading has been shown to have a multitude of positive impacts on your mental processes and well-being. Reading has been linked with improving memory, focus and concentration. Furthermore, research suggests that people who keep their brains active by reading are 2.5 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease.
Reading makes you a better person
Reading broadens your general knowledge and intelligence; it is a great way to learn and learn broadly. Reading can also make you a more empathetic person. It also broadens the vocabulary, which has not only been linked to diminished mental decline, but also makes you a more interesting and engaging person to talk to.
Reading makes you feel better
Reading is a great way to relax and de-stress. Research has shown that reading can reduce stress by up to 68 per cent. Reading before bed will also help you fall to sleep faster and sleep better. As opposed to phone screens or tablets that inhibit your ability to sleep, reading is a great way to wind down before sleeping.
There are a vast number of benefits to reading more books. With so many different books, genres and styles to choose from, we’re sure that there’s something that will keep you turning the pages and enjoying the benefits all year.