Why You Should Be Reading More Books This Year
By Genevieve Cunningham
It seems that there are a lot of common themes when it comes to staying healthy. We often hear the same advice over and over again: exercise, eat more greens, get more sleep. But what about some advice that is just a little outside of the box? What if improving your health could be done in your bed with a book? While exercise and a healthy diet and regular trips to the doctor are still important, take a look at these reasons why you should make reading more books a goal for this year.
To Keep the Brain Sharp
Reading requires thinking. It requires practicing a skill that we've known for ages. It sometimes requires critical thinking or problem solving. And practicing all of these things, especially as we age, can help us to keep the brain sharp. It can help with memory. It can help with basic cognitive function. If keeping the brain healthy is a goal -- and it should be! -- then reading should definitely be on your normal to-do list.
To Wind Down and Lower Stress
Reading can be enjoyable. The trick is to find something that you like. If you like fiction, read it. Biographies? Read those. Encyclopedias? Have at it! Whatever you enjoy, read to your heart's content. Doing an activity like this that you enjoy can significantly lower stress and help you wind down at the end of the day. In the long run, this is good for your heart as well as for overall health. Make it a part of your wind down or bedtime routine to make it a habit that sticks.
To Set an Example
Reading is a really good habit. Unfortunately in today's world, kids are more likely to pick up a phone or tablet than a book. But if you, as the parent and adult, pick up a book, then your kids are more likely to do so, too. You'll be setting an incredibly healthy example for your kids to follow. Is it a guarantee? Of course not. But it's a huge step in teaching your kids healthy habits to last a lifetime.
If you haven't been reading this past year, it's time to make it a priority. Reading is good for your health, good for your brain, and good for your life. Make a list of books you like, set aside some time, and make reading a serious goal this year.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Summerville, S.C.