National Book Lovers Day 2023: It is indeed rightly quoted by Anna Quindlen that “books are the plane, and the train, and the road. They are the destination and the journey. They are home.” The world of books is filled with magic and takes you to a different world. They play a quintessential role in our lives as they are filled with knowledge about hardships, love, success, loss, grief, fear and other fundamental parts of our lives.

While reading a book may not be on everyone’s to-do list, for bibliophiles, books are a form of escape from the real world. Not only do books tell stories but are also a gateway to the beautiful world of imagination. Here are some potential benefits of reading books for your mental health.

Watch the video below for ways to reduce stress and anxiety at home: 

Health Benefits Of Reading Books 

1. Stress Management

When reading your favourite novel, you might have experienced feelings of relaxation. When we read books, our mind is relaxed and feelings of calmness increase. Studies show that regular readers have lower rates of depression as compared to non-readers. Reading is around 300 per cent more effective at reducing stress than going for a walk.

2. Enhances Communication

Reading books can significantly improve your communication by enhancing your vocabulary. When you read a book, it promotes your thinking ability along with imagination power. Including books in your regular schedule will help you have a command of your oratory skills.

3. Prevents Cognitive Decline

Reading is one of the most effective ways to exercise your brain. A study conducted in 2013 stated that reading books can promote effective brain cognition and lead to better brain functions. Reading books is a brain-stimulating activity that lets your brain think, rethink and imagine in beautiful ways.

4. Increases Empathy

Empathy is the ability to understand another person’s thoughts, feelings and emotions from their point of view and give importance to them. When we read books, we often get answers to our unanswered questions and enhance our ability to get in other people's shoes and understand their point of view in a given situation.

5. Promote Good Sleep

According to the Mayo Clinic, reading books can promote a good night's sleep in individuals. Books strengthen your imagination power by awakening your unconscious mind, which induces better sleep.