How Reading Improves Memory And Brain Power
Why bother reading a book when you can watch a movie adaptation or listen to an audio version? Who even has the time to read a 400-page novel? Why read the newspaper when you can watch CNN? Why waste your time reading the manual when you can watch clear instructions on YouTube? This is precisely the mindset that many people share today.
However, know that there’s a big difference between watching/listening and reading. According to a study published in the Brain Connectivity journal, you can experience several benefits from reading. The study found that the most brain benefits could be experienced from reading fiction. The reason why fiction is beneficial when it comes to improving brain power is that it makes you put yourself in another person’s shoes and use your imagination.
Nowadays, people usually buy fiction books while getting news and facts from the Internet. Most are looking for an escape from their lives, which is why fiction books are more popular than nonfiction ones.
However, the number of readers isn’t that high. According to statistics, 42% of college graduates won’t reread a book after graduating. While some find it relaxing, most people believe that reading takes up too much time or isn’t as interesting as watching a TV show or a movie.
Although a movie might be good, it certainly won’t last as long as a book. Reading also stimulates imagination, while television and film do not.
On top of that, you can enjoy a book anywhere. Some readers actually get encouraged to reconnect with nature after they pick up the habit of reading.
If you got this opinion because of the low quality of some books you’ve read before, maybe it’s time to start reading some of the classics. If you like science fiction, then browse the sci-fi section of the library. There are countless titles to choose from, and they will all improve your brain health. Here are some of the main benefits you can experience from reading.
Reading Enhances Focus
Effective readers have incredible focus. When reading a book, you’ll need to pay attention to every single detail to understand the story entirely. If your concentration isn’t that great currently, then start by reading only 10-20 pages a day. Once your focus improves, you’ll be able to read much more than you used to.
Reading Improves Memory
You won’t really comprehend what you’re reading if you don’t remember specific details you’ve read early on in the book. To fully understand a book, you’ll need to remember every character mentioned, as well as their backgrounds.
You’ll need to remember their ambitions, strengths, and flaws. Know that your mind will forge new brain pathways for every new memory you make. This is precisely why books will keep your memory sharp.
Reading Encourages Analytical Skills
People who read frequently can spot patterns more quickly than non-readers.
Reading Will Expand Your Vocabulary
Whenever you read a book, you’ll probably stumble across numerous words you’ve never heard before. This will compel you to look up the meaning of these words. Doing this will instantly add them to your vocabulary, helping you express your thoughts and emotions more clearly in the future.
Reading Decreases Stress Levels
Most people live a very fast-paced life and spend much of their time juggling multiple activities at once. This can elevate your stress levels, which can be very dangerous, seeing as how stress is one of the leading causes of various health problems. Reading will allow you to finally escape from your everyday troubles and enter a whole other world. This will provide you with the relaxation you need to remain healthy.