Studies show that it can increase our emotional intelligence as we
understand a range of perspectives and motivations. There is some evidence
that mental stimulation is one of the factors that can delay the onset of
dementia and reading is among the activities that can help to keep the
brain active. It is far from a passive pastime.
When we read we create mental simulations of the activities, sights and
sounds of scenes in a story, blending these with our own memories and
experiences, all of which stimulates the neural pathways. As well as this,
research suggests that reading for 30 minutes a week increases health and
wellbeing. Reading for pleasure has been found to improve our confidence
and self-esteem, providing the grounding we need to pursue our goals and
make life decisions. It can also aid our sleep and reduce feelings of
loneliness. To the onlooker, reading can appear to be a solitary and
passive activity. But the simple act of picking up a book can do us a
world of good.
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