A new year has begun and it means new hopes, confidence, and new resolutions. If you are confused about what resolution to take this year, here is one for you- “read daily”. If you look into the benefits of reading, you will be fascinated by the endless list. If you ask a book lover, how much time to spend reading? The answer will be to read all of the time. But, it is unrealistic given that people have daily chores to do. Let us see what the ideal time is to spend on reading.
Ideal reading time
There are lots of suggestions from readers all over the world such as 20 minutes, 19 minutes, half an hour, and more. However, there is a science-backed number. It is said that reading 20 minutes for at least 5 days a week improves various skills. Research conducted by the University of Michigan examined around 36,000 men and women above 50 regarding their reading hours per week. The researchers concluded that people who spent 30 minutes daily in reading lived for an average of two years longer than the peers who didn’t read. The effects of reading are said to be phenomenal in young people.
A caveat: what you read also matters
You should read something solid for dedicated 30 minutes. The book or article you read should have a positive and ever-lasting effect on you. Reading some information on notice boards or newspapers doesn’t count as reading. Make wise reading choices and select novels, poems, or fictions that could improve your personality and pave the way for personal growth.
The speed at which you read also counts
Taking in too much information within less time, won’t give time for registration and comprehension. Fast reading is apt for scrolling through social media pages and memes but when it comes to actual book reading, comprehension while reading is a must. You should take time to read and comprehend what you are reading. This helps in improving cognitive skills and concentration.
Benefits of book reading
Reading books daily not only makes you proficient but it improves your physical and mental health.
- Stimulates and strengthens your brain: MRI scans have confirmed reading includes a complex network of circuits in your brain and as you read, the network gets more sophisticated and stronger. It keeps your brain active and reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Reading is like an exercise for your brain cells making it stronger and healthier.
- Reduces stress: a study was conducted in 2019 among students measuring the effects of yoga, humor, and reading on stress levels. It revealed that 30 minutes of reading per day reduced blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of psychological distress. The reading showed effects on par with yoga and humor.
- Improves memory: reading takes you into the plot and setting and you feel everything as if you are experiencing it in real. As you imagine everything, it gets stored in your memory. This memory helps in making the synapses strong and work better. Along with improving memory, reading also improves imagination skills.
Bottom line
Book Reading is the best resolution that you take this year. Stick to reading for at least 30 minutes per day and experience amazing changes in you within a few months.
If you’re looking for more inspiration and uplifting content, don’t forget to check out our collection of posts in the Positive Blog category.
FAQs
Q: Can I read too much?
A: Yes, it’s possible to read too much and burn out. It’s important to listen to your body and take breaks as needed.
Q: How can I improve my reading speed?
A: Practice makes perfect! Try using a finger or bookmark to guide your eyes, and gradually increase your reading speed over time.
Q: What should I do if I’m not enjoying a book?
A: Don’t force yourself to finish a book if you’re not enjoying it. Life is too short to read bad books!