Introduction To The Benefits Of Reading
Reading for pleasure has been linked to numerous cognitive benefits, including improved memory, empathy, and mental health. Despite these benefits, the number of people reading for pleasure has declined over the past 20 years, possibly due to the increasing amount of time spent on social media. Researchers at the University of Cambridge, led by Barbara Sahakian, have pooled evidence from five surveys and eight long-term studies to investigate the effects of reading for pleasure on brain health.
Cognitive Benefits Of Reading
The study found that reading for pleasure is associated with a greater volume of grey matter in the brain, which supports thinking and memory. This may be how reading builds cognitive reserve, the brain's ability to defend against ageing and adapt to damage. Reading was also linked to improved mental health, with one study finding that children who began reading for pleasure early in life had moderately larger brain surface areas and volumes in regions linked to emotional control. Additionally, reading was associated with reduced stress, greater empathy, enhanced wellbeing, and reduced loneliness.
According to Falk Huettig at the Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, "reading is like a cognitive workout". This workout may be particularly important for children, as reading was associated with better attention, memory, executive function, academic achievement, and fewer mental health problems. Among older adults, reading was linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline.
The Importance Of Fiction And Non-Fiction
Reading fiction may be particularly important, as it exposes us to narratives that allow our brain to practice how we might respond to life events, improving its prediction abilities. Fiction may also make us feel connected to the characters, reducing feelings of loneliness. Non-fiction, on the other hand, may stimulate different parts of the brain. However, the type of reading material is not as important as the act of reading itself, as long as it is done for enjoyment. As Sahakian notes, "read for enjoyment, as you will read more often and longer".
Real-World Implications
The decline in reading for pleasure has significant implications for mental health, particularly among young people. With evidence suggesting that youth mental health is worse today than it was decades ago, reading for pleasure may be an important tool in improving mental wellbeing. Additionally, the benefits of reading for pleasure are not limited to individuals, but can also have a positive impact on society as a whole. By promoting empathy and understanding, reading can help to break down social barriers and foster a more compassionate community.
Conclusion And Future Outlook
In conclusion, reading for pleasure has numerous benefits for cognitive health, mental wellbeing, and emotional intelligence. Despite the decline in reading for pleasure, the evidence suggests that it is an important activity that should be promoted and encouraged. By making time for reading and prioritizing it as a leisure activity, individuals can improve their mental health, reduce stress, and increase their empathy and understanding of others. As we move forward in an increasingly digital age, it is essential that we remember the importance of reading for pleasure and make it a part of our daily lives.
Sources
This is an original synthesis by Qivorane based on reporting from the outlets below.
