Reading reduces stress. Studies have shown reading helps reduce stress, likely because it requires concentration and focus. Reading helps you sleep better "Reading is an excellent way to relax and can be a great nighttime ritual," Reading keeps your mind sharp Studies have found reading regularly may slow mental decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Reading can improve your relationships Reading can also help you develop empathy toward others. "Reading about people who are different from us can help us understand another person's life experience and give us gratitude for our own life experience,"