If you’ve got out of the habit of reading, take this as your sign to get back to it as quickly as possible
The members of the Irish Country Magazine team are avid readers – if you want to try some of the ones we have recommended in the past, click here or to check out some great beach reads, click here.
Whether you prefer physical, audio or e-books, the bottom line is, it’s universally accepted that reading is a fantastic pastime. However, what might not be so well known are the health benefits that can come from reading for just 20 minutes a day.
Mubin Ahmed, co-founder of ethical bookseller Awesome Books, has shared why reading not only enriches the mind but can contribute to heart health as well.
Stress reduction
One of the primary ways reading helps reduce the risk of heart attacks is through stress reduction. Stress is a significant risk factor for heart disease. When you immerse yourself in a good book, your mind is transported away from the worries and anxieties of everyday life. According to a study by the University of Sussex, reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. Imagine the compounded benefits of dedicating 20 minutes daily to this relaxing activity!
Improved sleep quality
Poor sleep is another risk factor for heart attacks. Reading before bed can help improve sleep quality, leading to better heart health. Instead of engaging with screens, which emit blue light and disrupt sleep patterns, opting for a physical book or e-reader with a warm light setting can signal to your brain that it’s time to wind down. Better sleep means your body can repair and rejuvenate, reducing strain on your heart.
Mental stimulation
Reading keeps your brain active and engaged, which is beneficial for overall mental health. Mental stimulation has been linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety, both of which can negatively impact heart health. By regularly challenging your brain, you help maintain its functionality, potentially staving off conditions that can indirectly affect your heart, such as depression and cognitive decline.
Lower blood pressure
Relaxation from reading can also help lower blood pressure. When you are engrossed in a book, your body relaxes, and this relaxation can lead to lower blood pressure. High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart attacks, so maintaining a lower blood pressure through regular reading can contribute to heart health.
Social connections
Reading, especially fiction, enhances empathy and social understanding. These improved social connections and empathy can lead to stronger relationships and support networks, which are essential for emotional well-being. Strong social connections as well as emotional wellbeing have been shown to lower the risk of heart disease.
Increased mindfulness
Reading requires concentration and presence, which are key aspects of mindfulness. Being fully present in the moment has been shown to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm. Regular practice of mindfulness through reading can improve your overall emotional health, thereby reducing the risk of heart-related issues.
Don’t have time to read? Make it easier to incorporate reading into your daily routine by doing some of these:
- Set a specific time: Choose a consistent time each day for your reading session, whether it’s in the morning, during lunch, or before bed.
- Create a cosy space: Designate a comfortable spot for reading, free from distractions.
- Choose enjoyable material: Select books or articles that genuinely interest you to make the habit enjoyable and sustainable.
- Limit screen time: Opt for physical books or e-readers with non-glare screens to reduce eye strain and improve relaxation.
- Join a book club: Engaging with others about what you’re reading can enhance your enjoyment and provide additional social benefits.
