5 Reasons To Restart Your Pleasure Reading
In the Pacific Northwest, not only does autumn herald the return of holiday-flavored coffee drinks, but of reading weather. When I’m not working on my books, one of my favorite fall activities is to curl up in my chair with a lap blanket, a warm beverage, and a new book.
I read for entertainment, to learn, and lately, to support other creatives via leaving reviews.
If you’ve fallen out of the habit, here are five reasons to pick a book up again.
1. Reading is Self-Care
When you sink into a story, you can increase your empathy, compassion, and emotional intelligence. But reading for pleasure is a great stress reducer too.
And while devouring a book is a solitary activity, book clubs provide opportunities for social engagement.
2. Reading Improves Focus and Concentration
Our lives are full of distractions. The constant pull of our attention from email, text messages, and social media keeps us from enveloping ourselves in any one task. But allowing yourself the time to sink into a book can rebuild your focus. And like anything, the more you read, the easier it gets.
3. Books are Everywhere!
With the rise in digital content, it’s easier than ever before to have a book with you. I’m able to carry hundreds of eBooks on the tablet I use for reading, and when I don’t have it with me, I can get to some of my purchased content, and all of my library content, via my phone.
Digital content has also made audiobook access easier. No longer do you have to switch cassette tapes or compact discs. And with so many ways to get free or discounted audiobooks, cost shouldn’t be a factor either.
4. Reading is a Great Workout for Your Brain
Everyone knows reading builds your vocabulary. But did you know it can also improve your memory and strengthen cognitive function?
5. Reading is Fun!
In case you’ve forgotten, reading for pleasure is an enjoyable activity. You can travel, have adventures, fight dragons, or fall in love all from the comfort and safety of your house.
If you’re looking for suggestions, here are novels with smashing opening lines, post-apocalyptic reads I found uplifting, novels featuring art-based magic systems, and some of the indie-published novels I’ve enjoyed.
“I declare after all there is no enjoyment like reading! How much sooner one tires of any thing than of a book! When I have a house of my own, I shall be miserable if I have not an excellent library.” ― Pride and Prejudice
Whether you enjoy fiction, memoir, or non-fiction, reading for pleasure is a gift you deserve!
What books are you reading right now?
Header Photo by Ishaq Robin on Unsplash