5 SURPRISING BENEFITS OF READING
The world we live in is fast-paced. There are things shouting for our attention everywhere. Whether you’re at home watching TV, or out and about, there is always something – news, blogs, Twitter, commercials, the endless streams of things on Facebook. With all the information overload it’s no wonder we have trouble focusing on anything. But there is an easier way and the book-lovers amongst us already know this: books. It is a great way to relax and enjoy some time away from all the bright screens.
Stress melts away
A photo of someone reading, snuggled up with a cup of tea can make you instantly long for a book. The idea of reading a book not only sounds relaxed, reading actually reduces stress by 68%. Also, incidentally, books help you drift off to sleep as well. It helps the body wind down sleep longer.
Focus your attention
The world is a fast place, there is something new every second on your Facebook timeline. It is no wonder our mind jumps from one topic to another. But have you ever noticed that when you read a really good book, the rest of the world disappears? That is because reading helps your mind to focus and concentrate. Reading as much as 15-20 minutes a day will do wonders.
Smarter brains
Speaking of concentration, all that reading not only improves that, but it boosts your brainpower as well. It improves your memory, gives you time to think and works your brain muscle. It’s basically a workout for your mind.
Increase your vocabulary
But if you’re up for a bit of a challenge, books can not only improve your knowledge, but your vocabulary too. Remember when you were young and asked your parents every other sentence what a word meant? Reading keeps doing that even if you’re well in your twenties. Incidentally, reading is also a great way to learn another language.
Be a creative thinker
So now that your brain is relaxed, working more efficiently, more focused, and has an amazing vocabulary to work with, it does something else too. Reading will help you unlock your creative thinking. It will help you to think outside of the box. So why not leave the tv off tonight, grab a book, and dive into its imaginary world. You can never have too many books on your to-read pile right? Happy reading!
Article Source: http://lifegoalsmag.com/surprising-benefits-reading/
Image Source: https://blog.prepscholar.com/hs-fs/hub/360031/file-2431800788-jpg/body_reading.jpg?t=1490486520382&width=590&name=body_reading.jpg
VOCABULARY WORDS:
1. Focus (v.) - to direct one's attention or efforts
2. Imaginary (adj.) - existing only in the imagination or fancy not real
3. Efficient (adj.) - performing or functioning in the best possible manner with the least waste of time and effort
4. Creative (adj.) - resulting from originality of thought, expression, etc.
5. Concentrate (v.) - to bring all efforts, faculties, activities, etc., to bear on one thing or activity
6. Improve (v.) - to bring into a more desirable or excellent condition
QUESTIONS FOR DISCUSSION:
1. What are the other possible benefits of reading besides the ones stated in the article?
2. How can the habit of reading help a person learn another language?
3. Does reading have health benefits? How and why?
