“Reading is fundamental.” This is a common phrase and foundation most American children learn to encourage literacy. Of course, reading is important for many reasons but there are also many benefits related to mental and physical health that you may not be aware of.
Here are some of the overall benefits that regular reading provides:
Reduce stress- According to the American Psychological Association, most Americans are suffering from moderate to high stress. Stress can lead to a number of adverse health issues. Although stress factors can be limited, it won’t necessarily make someone stress less. It is important to find healthy coping mechanisms. Reading is a great way to reduce stress because it focuses on the reader’s mind which blocks out troublesome thoughts that can cause stress.
Improves self-discipline– If you are trying to create more “good habits”, reading is a great way to establish that. Because reading with full comprehension requires the reader to pay attention to a single task, it helps create focus. By reading, you can get used to delayed gratification. It may take you some time to finish a book, but when it is complete you will feel satisfied and accomplished.
Fosters imagination– A good fiction book can take you places you couldn’t dream of. Most adults don’t utilize their imagination enough which can block creativity. Reading will help expand your mind to new ideas and concepts.
Increases cultural knowledge– You can’t really know someone without having an undertraining of their culture. Ignorance can lead to confusion and misguided hatred of others. Reading helps tell other people’s stories to remove the stigma that other races/ cultural backgrounds face.
On average, about a quarter of the American population, do not read enough. With heavy work schedules and schooling, it can be hard to carve out time to read for just for yourself. Sometimes all you need is a simple reminder. The Willow Tree Angel of Learning Figurine is a beautiful gift to give to someone or purchase for yourself to remind you to read. This figurine represents the power of learning and the strength that comes with gaining new knowledge. Visit K.Kannon to view more Willow Tree Angels!