5 Compelling Reasons You Should Read Every Day

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It’s no secret that I love to read. From the day I learned to read, I’ve always had a book in my hand, in my purse, next to my bed, etc. It’s easy for me to make the time to read because it’s one of my favorite pastimes and something I’m passionate about.

You may not be so sold on reading. Maybe the extent of your reading is scanning your Facebook newsfeed or following a recipe. If you’re reading this blog, you’re probably somewhat inclined to read, but maybe it’s just not something you really make time for.

If you are one of the people I just described, or even an avid reader like me, here are five compelling reasons you should make it a point to read – something, anything – every single day.

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It stimulates your brain.

Just as our bodies need regular exercise, our brains need to be exercised, too. Reading is a great way to provide your brain with the stimulation it needs to stay sharp. Reading is neurologically very demanding, requiring several different parts of the brain. When you read, you use intelligence, concentration, and imagination. It is the ultimate workout for your brain.
It reduces stress.

Reading is a very relaxing form of entertainment for most people. Studies have shown that reading reduces heart rate, lowers blood pressure, and relaxes muscles. I think a lot of it has to do with the fact that as you focus on your reading, you become less focused on yourself and your own problems. Taking your mind off your problems enables you to relax. Whatever the scientific reason, I know for me, reading is the most relaxing activity I do.
It expands your knowledge base.

Reading is a great way to gain knowledge. When you read, you inevitably acquire new information, whether you’re reading nonfiction or fiction, and you never know when that knowledge will come in handy! In general, the more knowledge you have, the better equipped you will be to handle new challenges. Plus, being a more knowledgeable and well-rounded person makes you more interesting and better able to communicate in a variety of settings.
It expands your vocabulary.

The more you read, the more words you expose yourself to. See these words often enough, and they will become infused into your vocabulary without effort.Reading also helps you become more articulate in both verbal and written communication, as the books and articles you read model good communication. Being articulate is a valuable skill in both professional and social settings, and can be a great boost to your self-esteem.
It broadens your thinking.

Reading exposes you to new points of view, subject matters you know nothing about, people you’ve never met, and places you’ve never seen. You can travel to distant lands, get in the minds of some of history’s greatest thinkers, and travel back in time, all without ever having to leave your favorite chair.Exposure to new ideas and insights broadens your thinking, and sometimes it challenges your preconceived ideas or beliefs. This doesn’t mean that you abandon your core belief system altogether, just that you allow for the possibility that you don’t have all the answers all the time. Because who of us here on earth does?
It inspires us to greatness.

I love reading inspiring stories. I love reading about the great things other people have done. It motivates me to action, incites me to be kinder, more generous, more loving, etc., and encourages me to be the best version of me I can be.I also love reading on topics related to my goals and my relationship with the Lord. Reading books like that pushes me to improve and equips me to do so. My books are my life coaches.

I hope you are now at least a little more eager to devote time each day to reading. It doesn’t have to be War and Peace. Find a magazine that interests you or a light novel. Anything that you enjoy! The more interesting it is to you, the more eager you will be to spend time reading it. So, now that we’ve seen just a few ways reading can benefit you, go! Read! Your brain will thank you!