Reading and The Brain
March 15, 2024
Writer: Jacqueline Presser
Editor: Jules Alfieri
Growing up, many of us were put to bed with bedtime stories. As we matured, the necessity of reading for academic purposes became a burden, often accompanied by parental lectures on the importance of critical reading. This led me to ponder: How significant is reading? As someone who once wouldn't pick up a book for school, let alone for leisure, my attitude toward reading has undergone a transformation.
Nowadays, I find solace in reading, particularly when I'm on vacation—whether lounging by the pool or beach, or winding down in my room before bed. Reading has become my therapy, offering an escape from the complexities of my mind or simply allowing me to immerse myself in the lives of fictional characters. Recently, delving into research has confirmed what my parents always insisted: Reading indeed offers substantial benefits for our mental and physical well-being.
Here are a few ways in which reading has been shown to enhance our mental and physical health:
Improves Mental Health:
In today's generation, mental health is a significant concern, particularly in the aftermath of the 2020 pandemic. Engaging in activities that promote mental wellness is essential for reducing depression and anxiety. Studies suggest that identifying with characters experiencing similar struggles can alleviate feelings of isolation. Additionally, participating in book clubs or using apps like "GoodReads" can foster a sense of community among readers.
Strengthens the Brain:
A 2013 study from Emory University monitored readers' brain activity using MRI scans while they read a book. The study revealed that the deeper readers delved into the narrative, the more areas of their brain were activated. Moreover, this heightened brain activity persisted for several days after completing the book, indicating that reading strengthens neural networks over time.
Reduces Stress:
Research conducted at Sussex University in 2009 found that reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. Just six minutes of immersive reading can lead to a decrease in heart rate, blood pressure, and muscle tension. Long-term stress reduction benefits are observed with thirty minutes of daily reading, regardless of the type of book or format, including audiobooks.
Expands Knowledge:
Despite the prevalence of multimedia, research suggests that reading remains essential for effective learning. Higher reading comprehension has been linked to greater scientific literacy, emphasizing the importance of reading as a core learning tool.
Improves Memory:
Reading stimulates various types of memory, including episodic memory (related to recalling events) and working memory (related to holding information while performing tasks). Daily reading has been shown to significantly improve both episodic and working memory, particularly in elderly individuals.
In conclusion, reading offers numerous benefits for our daily lives and overall well-being. On that note, I will finish reading my book, and hope you have been inspired to do so as well!
