1. Strengthens connections in the brain
Reading helps establish new connections between different parts of the brain. A small 2013 study found that reading a novel increased interactions between parts of the brain that control speech processing. Reading produced long-term changes in the bilateral somatosensory cortex, the part of the brain that processes sensory information.
2. Prevents age-related decline in cognitive functions
Reading as part of the cognitive process includes the ability to learn, remember and make judgments. Attention and memory are the two aspects of cognitive functioning that are most susceptible to aging. Scientists believe that reading can reduce age-related cognitive decline. Reading is even associated with a lower risk of senile dementia.
3. Reduces stress
Just 30 minutes of reading each day can reduce physical and emotional signs of stress. In a study, after half an hour of reading, volunteers experienced a reduction in physical markers of stress, such as heart rate and blood pressure, compared to before reading. Unfortunately, today reading the news cannot relax us. Instead, it is better to choose novels, short stories or other materials.
4. Longevity
A large 12-year study published in 2017 found that reading books was associated with a 20 percent reduction in mortality risk. Of course, a book cannot increase life expectancy by itself, but it is associated with an overall healthier lifestyle and a lower risk of early death.
5. Improves memory and concentration
Although the brain is not a muscle, it still benefits from exercise. Just as lifting weights makes our bodies stronger, reading can strengthen our memory and focus. When people read, they create an “opinion” of the written text. This card helps us process the words we read, as well as remember knowledge.
