Do you like to read? I LOVE to read but I tend to not make time for it. I read when on vacation or other daily life priorities are not vying for my attention, like sitting in a waiting room, etc.
As you may know, I’m nearing the end of my 2nd week of 75 Hard. One of the daily requirements is to read 10 pages of a nonfiction book every single day. This has been very good for me and I looked forward to it because it makes me prioritize reading!
Since I love to read, I buy books on the regular when a friend recommends one. Two years ago, when I was studying for my boards and prior to that taking the required courses, I bought nearly every book that was recommended in the program. I literally have a bookcase full of good books to read, all are nonfiction. I always thought when I was done with my boards, I would read them one by one. Ha! Life is busy and unless I prioritize the time, it gets filled with other things. That is a concept that is applicable to every priority in our lives. Today, I’m applying it to reading.
It’s been a short time but I’ve already gained some valuable insights from my reading and I intend to make the 10 pages/day a permanent part of my daily routine. You can too! Let’s reflect on the value of reading.
The Intellectual Health Connection: Why Reading Matters
Intellectual health is one of the 9 pillars of health and daily reading supports intellectual health by:
- Expanding knowledge and stimulating creativity.
- Improving cognitive function and memory.
- Strengthening focus and mental stamina.
These are great benefits to daily life but in addition, there is research-based evidence that regular reading may help prevent cognitive decline!
The Fun, Enjoyment, and Escape of Reading
Reading also provides an emotional and mental escape from daily living.
- A good book can transport you, providing a mental break from daily stress.
- Reading offers a form of self-care by nurturing the mind and imagination.
I primarily read non fiction but at Christmastime, I received a white elephant gift from a dear friend with a few of her favorite fiction books. Since it was Christmas and I was giving my brain a break, I decided to dive in and read the fiction book “It Ends with Us.” It was a fun read that led me to the sequel, “It Begins with Us.” I found myself reading instead of watching TV and spending a lot of time reading. I think I finished each of these books within a week each. I lost track of time while becoming immersed in a good story.
Building a Daily Reading Habit
If you would like to incorporate a daily reading habit into your life, here are some practical tips I am using that are working.
- Start small: Commit to 10 pages or 15-20 minutes per day.
- Create a ritual: Read with your morning coffee, before bed, or during a quiet break. I have been reading before bed but noticed that on particularly busy days, my brain is not at its best before bed, so I try to do my reading earlier in the day when it is going to be busy. Find the time that works best for you.
- Choose inspiring and enjoyable books: Find what interests you. It could be a mix of fiction, nonfiction, and personal development books.
- Track your “Books Read” progress. I do this in the back of my journal. In fact, I like to set a goal for number of books to read each year. I’ve not been meeting my goal but this will be the year since I’m making daily reading a priority!
- Keep a list of “Books I want to Read.” When you’re ready for a new book, refer to the list. I like to buy books but you can also use the library. I also use audible and sometimes Kindle (on my ipad). Often, I have the paper book in addition to the audible book because I like to write in or highlight things. Audible works great for listening to books while driving or via air pods while walking! I don’t count “listening” toward my 10 pages/day though. This is a 75 Hard rule and I agree with it. I think my brain retains more when I read vs listen.
The Greater Impact: Expanding Your Horizons Through Reading
Daily reading leads to personal growth and wellness. It broadens your perspective and challenges your thinking. Reading also enhances your empathy by allowing you to experience different viewpoints. Reading also strengthens your ability to articulate thoughts, which can benefit relationships and communication.
Conclusion: Encouragement and Invitation
Let this be your challenge to prioritize daily reading as part of your self-care and wellness journey. It will strengthen your intellectual health and is a simple, yet profound way to nourish your mind.
I encourage you to begin today! Join me and read 10 pages/day. This takes me about 20 minutes. It’s a bite size chunk. In reality, I can scroll social media much longer than that! I’m learning to scroll less and read more!
I would love to hear what you are reading and how it is impacting you!
In love and health,
Terri
