Reading Does Wonders for Your Wellbeing

I’ve read a fair few books in my life, no doubt about this. Of course, I imagine there are many people who have read more; after all I enjoy a variety of time consuming hobbies. I do think I read more than the average person of my age though. Truthfully, I started reading young. When I was six I blitzed through Charlotte’s Web and moved onto War and Peace the very next day (because a relative said I should). Quite the contrast and a lot for a young mind to take on board. For years I chain-read classics and pulp hits alike. As a writer, reading is important. Many a successful author suggest reading widely and often; I agree with this. It isn’t just that though, for me personally; reading does wonders for my wellbeing.

Communication and Connectivity

There is something time be said for vicarious reading with a loved one. Not everyone is in a position to read. Sometimes because of disability, literacy or even personal circumstances not allowing a sufficient environment or time. That doesn’t mean that they aren’t interested. For me, talking about whatever the last Stephen King book I read with my partner brings me great joy. I don’t talk about the plot as a whole as it could get an adaptation we are able to watch together or she might be have an opportunity to read it in the future. I do talk about the concepts, what I like and don’t and how things relate to us and our shared interests. What this does is builds connectivity and communication skills which feels great.

Stress Relief

It is no secret that stress and anxiety are a struggle of mine. However, it is equally known that reading can be a healthy means of relaxation which does wonders for your mental health. Basically, the act of getting cosy and lost in a story relieves muscle tension and lowers the heart rate. It doesn’t have to be a massive novel; a short story, a few poems or a magazine will do the trick. Just 20 minutes a day will strike a notable difference. Many studies have come to this conclusion and it lines up with my own experiences.

Empathy

It’s hard not to question people’s ability to empathise with each other some days. We could all stand to be a little better at this. I find stories in particular help with this. Narratives written by authors from different backgrounds and with different view points to your own can create compelling characters that show the other side of the fence. This in turn makes navigating daily situations easier. Perspective and context is gained and if not, you learn to look for it in others.

Reading makes me happier. I get excited to share and discuss what I have read; allowing a deeper relationship with my partner. It helps me to better understand the differences in people and how I interact with them day-to-day; making these experiences less intense. I love reading and by spending a little time lost in the wonders of a story, poem or article every day my general wellbeing improves.