Chapter 1: The Importance of Reading

Engaging in reading is among the most valuable activities you can dedicate your time to. This enjoyable pastime not only relaxes you but also fosters better mental well-being, enhances your intelligence, and is generally affordable. Here are five compelling reasons to read daily:

1. Expand Your Knowledge About the World

Reading opens the door to an array of subjects. Whether you're fascinated by space or intrigued by the medieval era, there's a wealth of literature available. Additionally, fiction allows you to experience diverse lives and emotions within a short span. Authors pour their experiences and feelings into their work, helping readers process their own lives through narrative contexts. This can facilitate healing, understanding love, and coping with loss.

2. Enhance Your Memory and Concentration

Reading is a mental workout. Just as physical exercise strengthens the body, reading sharpens the mind. Many people underestimate this; they often claim they can't focus or struggle with reading. However, the truth is that consistent practice will improve your skills. While dyslexia and other learning challenges can complicate matters, committing to daily reading can cultivate a love for literature and a sense of personal time.

3. Alleviate Stress

Books serve as a wonderful escape from everyday pressures. Immersing yourself in a story can provide a distraction from your own challenges. While fiction is particularly effective for this, certain non-fiction works, like The Comfort Book and Reasons to Stay Alive by Matt Haig, can also provide solace. Instead of trying to silence your thoughts, redirect them by picking up a book—it can truly be life-changing!

4. Improve Your Communication Skills

Reading exposes you to a vast vocabulary. As Virginia Woolf noted, “Read a thousand books and your words will flow like a river.” You'll encounter familiar words and some that are entirely new to you. For instance, I recently came across the word "apotheosis" in Dan Brown’s The Lost Symbol. While I might not use it often, it’s an example of how reading enriches your vocabulary.

5. Enjoyment

Reading is simply fun! Ask anyone you see frequently engrossed in a book. What should you read? The answer is everything—fiction, non-fiction, poetry, journals, or any genre that interests you! Sure, there will be times you must read less enjoyable materials for school or work, but don’t let that deter you from the joy of reading.

Currently, I find myself leaning more towards non-fiction, balancing history, psychology, and memoirs with autobiographies and fiction. Recently, I’ve developed a fondness for food memoirs, particularly Stanley Tucci's Taste and Jay Rayner's Chewing The Fat. I am eagerly anticipating David Chang's Eat A Peach, though I worry it may leave me too hungry.

The first video titled "Reading Changes Your Brain, Let Me Explain" elaborates on how reading influences cognitive function and mental growth.