To read is to live
The mental and physical health benefits of reading books
In times where attention spans last less than 45 seconds, where our memories are failing us, and our stress is at an all-time high, reading books is one of many methods that can help us rejuvenate our health.
Four years of university, if not longer, is no easy feat. The anxiety, excitement, disappointment, and bundle of emotions that ride our minds like rollercoasters can be draining. One second, we’re wondering what course to take and the next, we’re worried about our finals. It’s an environment that moves so quickly it’s easy to forget the content we’ve learned by the end of the semester. In such times, it’s important to stop, take a breath, and find a hobby.
The mental health benefits of reading books
There are no correct ways to read. No specific genre to stick to or a routine to live by. It’s the simple act of reading regularly that helps alleviate stress and reduce dementia.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) of the brain has shown that reading activates complex parts of our brain. It promotes blood flow, which stimulates our brain’s neural pathways. This enhances our memory and cognitive function, expanding our capacity to withhold information. At times when we move rapidly from one course to another, reading helps us remember what we spend very few weeks learning.
It’s also an excellent source of stress relief. When reading, we naturally begin to concentrate on the words presented on the page. This action alone reduces stress as we begin to forget the thoughts we were once anxious about. Furthermore, the right book can suspend us in an entirely different world, lightening any tension in the heart and muscles.
In the longterm, once you’ve graduated and lived your life, reading regularly would’ve helped prevent, if not reduced, the risk of dementia—a condition that affects memory, language, problem-solving, and other critical thinking abilities. A 2010 study has also shown that it’s never too late to start reading. For those that believe it’s only helpful if you start young, rest assured that even if you begin reading in your mid 50’s to late 60’s, the action is proven to reduce dementia.
The physical health benefits of reading books
Not only has reading proven that it can reduce stress and dementia, research also suggests that it can lower blood pressure, improve sleep quality, and prolong life. Because reading helps relax the body, it in turn, declines high levels of blood pressure.
Likewise, since reading is a low-intensity activity and can easily calm the mind, it’s the perfect lullaby for students struggling with sleep. However, it’s only possible when reading a physical copy of a book. Using kindle or other devices may have the opposite effect, disturbing sleep quality and duration.
Rather than magazines or newspapers, students who spend time reading books extend their life by at least two years, reducing their mortality rate by 20 per cent. It doesn’t end there. By reading regularly, students build their vocabulary, strengthen their brain and increase empathy, bringing forth many more benefits to their health.
Don’t force yourself to read. Take your time and enjoy the process. Maybe join the book club the university offers or dig around our library for new and interesting genres.
