Reading is non-optional for a university student, and often not very enjoyable. You have to slog through pages upon pages of dry theory and mind-numbing case studies, and you have to do it fast. For a lot of students, especially those with jobs, this doesn't leave much time or desire for recreational reading. All the compulsory academic reading effectively ruins all other optional reading. But I'm here to tell you why reading for fun is worth finding time for.
An obvious reason for students to read more is that it will help you in your studies. Reading is a skill that requires practice, so the more you read, the faster you'll get at it, which we've already established is invaluable in university. Reading widely will also expand your vocabulary and improve your writing skills, which will improve your ability to communicate, not only academically, but in your personal life as well. In short, reading more can lead to better marks and even improve your relationships.
It reduces stress
Reading is a great and simple way to escape from the anxieties and troubles of the world and de-stress for a while. A study conducted in 2009 by researchers from the University of Sussex showed that reading for as little as six minutes can lower your heart rate, relieve muscle tension and reduce stress levels.
It's good for your brain
Improves memory and concentration
In the age of social media and the internet, our attention spans and ability to concentrate have taken a huge hit. But don't worry, reading can help us snap out of it. Reading an engrossing book is an easy way to focus on one thing and not keep checking your phone every two minutes. Remembering all the characters, events and details will improve your memory, and pondering the various aspects of the plot will improve your analytical skills.
It helps you sleep
Before you go to bed, replace staring at a screen with staring at a book, and you'll likely sleep better. The blue light emitted by screens can mess with your melatonin levels (the hormone in charge of your sleep-wake cycles) and keep you from getting a good night's sleep. The stimulation from social media or work emails just before bed can also keep your brain buzzing when it should be winding down. So read a book instead and let the escapism weigh down your eyelids and gently lull you to sleep.
It improves empathy and widens your horizons
Reading makes you more knowledgeable and even wiser as well. Approach it with a curious mind and it will show you new perspectives, new opinions and fresh ways of thinking. It will help you empathise with different characters and experience life in their shoes. It can help you be kinder and more patient.
Reading lets you live lives and have experiences you could never even have dreamed of. It can take you to the far corners of the world or across the universe. It can capture and ignite your imagination and inspire you to find and take paths you didn't even know existed. Reading can literally change your life. And even if it doesn't, your mind will still be better off than it was before.
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