This Summer More Than Ever, We Need the Comfort of Books

Photo credit: TinaOable via Visualhunt / CC BY-NC-SA

Summer is here, stretching out as far as the eye could see, but it’s unlike any other because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. There won’t be any trips (at least not to foreign destinations). Social distancing is a must. In these challenging times, books offer a safe way to celebrate summer.

In addition to reading for comfort and fun, research studies show that reading offers many health benefits. It reduces stress, increases empathy, and helps you live longer!

Here’s a roundup of stories about the many advantages of reading.

Want to Live Longer? Reading a Book Will Help

The keys to healthy living and longevity may soon include read more books, judging by the results of a recent study. A research published in Social Science & Medicine shows a correlation between reading books and living longer. It compared people who did not read and those who read for up to three-and-a-half hours a week. On the average, readers lived almost two years longer than non-readers. Read the entire article.

New Study: Books Empower Readers to Do Positive Things

For book lovers everywhere, the sheer pleasure of reading is motivation enough for them. Those who are less inclined to read should listen up! A new study revealed that books empower readers to take positive actions, such as traveling, starting a new hobby, and even getting over a break-up.

“Reading for pleasure is a pivotal way to empower, enlighten, and guide us through our everyday lives. Reading acts as a window to the outside world that challenges our thinking and changes our lifestyles for the better,” according to a report, “The Untold Power of the Book.” Read the entire article.

4 Reasons Why Reading is Good for Your Health

Four studies came up with great reasons why reading should be at the top of your to-do list every day: reducing stress, keeping your brain healthy, increasing empathy, and increasing tolerance for uncertainty. Read the entire article.

Note: I’ve updated this post, first published on my old blog on June 28, 2017.

Photo credit: TinaOable via Visualhunt /  CC BY-NC-SA