Reading has been shown to provide a plethora of benefits to those who engage in it regularly. From improving your memory to making you more intelligent, reading is one habit you should adopt into your daily routine. This blog post will discuss the eight incredible benefits of reading and why you should make it a habit!

1. Improve Cognitive Functioning and Intelligence

A 2006 study showed that individuals who read regularly could better recall information and had higher levels of comprehension than those who did not read regularly. Furthermore, another study conducted in 2009 showed that people who read regularly scored higher on tests of verbal reasoning, critical thinking, and vocabulary when compared to those who didn't read.

Reading has also been linked to reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease and other age-related dementias. A study published in 2012 found that individuals who read regularly were significantly less likely to develop dementia than those who didn't read. So not only does reading make you smarter, but it also helps keep your mind sharp as you age!

These studies show that there are clear cognitive benefits of reading regularly. So if you want to improve your memory, increase your intelligence, and reduce your risk of developing dementia, make sure to include reading in your daily routine!

2. Enhanced Creativity and Imagination

One of the benefits of reading is that it helps to enhance your creativity and imagination. When you read, you are exposed to new ideas and different ways of thinking. This exposure can help to spark your creativity and imagination.

Furthermore, studies have shown that reading fiction can increase your ability to empathize with others. Researchers found that individuals who read fiction were better able to understand the emotions and experiences of others. So not only does reading make you more creative, but it also makes you more compassionate!

Reading doesn't mean you have to sit down with a dense novel. If you want to improve your creativity and imagination, try reading fiction or nonfiction, you could also find one of the many stores that sell comic books if you are into the Marvel or DC universes. By exposing yourself to new and different ideas, you will be able to spark your creativity!

3. It Develops Your Ability To Learn New Things

Reading has also been linked with developing your ability to learn new things. This is because when you read, you are constantly exposed to further information and concepts. This exposure helps to build your "learning muscle" and makes it easier for you to learn new things in the future.

Furthermore, a study by the Department of Education found that individuals who read regularly were better able to learn new tasks when compared to those who didn't read. So not only does reading make it easier for you to learn new things, but it also helps you learn faster!

4. Better Concentration and Attention Span

The average attention span of a human being is shorter than that of a goldfish. According to a study by Microsoft, the average attention span decreased from 12 seconds in 2000 to just eight seconds in 2016. This is because we are now constantly bombarded with information and constant distractions. To maintain focus, we must practice ways to improve our concentration. One way to do this is through reading. When you read, you train your brain to concentrate for long periods. This improved concentration will then carry over into other areas of your life, such as work or school.

According to the National Adult Literacy Survey, 43% of adults struggle with complex reading tasks. This number is likely even higher for those who do not read regularly. Furthermore, 70% of prison inmates are functionally illiterate. These numbers highlight the importance of reading to be successful in life. By reading regularly, you are giving yourself a leg up on the competition.

5. Reading Relieves Stress

In today's society, it is easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We are constantly bombarded with information and constant distractions. This can lead to a lot of stress and anxiety. Thankfully, reading can be a great way to relax and de-stress. When you read, your body goes into "relaxation mode" as your heart rate and blood pressure start to lower. Furthermore, reading can help reduce stress by providing an escape from reality. Whether you are transported to a different world or engrossed in the story, reading offers a much-needed break from the chaos of everyday life.

6. Reading Might Help Your Live Longer

According to a study done by Yale University, reading can help you live longer. The study followed over 3600 people for 12 years and found that those who read books for 30 minutes or more every day were 23% less likely to die during the study. Furthermore, those who read magazines or newspapers were 14% less likely to die. While the exact reason why reading contributes to a longer life is unknown, it is clear that there are benefits to be had.

7. Improves Your Vocabulary and Writing Skills

The more you read, the better your vocabulary and writing skills because you are constantly exposed to new words and ideas. Furthermore, reading different styles of writing can help improve your writing. As you read, pay attention to how the author constructs their sentences and try incorporating some of these techniques into your writing.

8. Improves Your Memory

As we age, it's normal for our memory to start declining. But, reading can help improve your memory at any age. When you read, you're constantly challenging your brain to remember new characters, plot points, and vocabulary words. This helps keep your mind sharp and can even slow the progression of Alzheimer's and dementia.

Whether you're reading for pleasure, to learn something new, or to improve your memory, there's no doubt that this simple activity can profoundly impact your life. So make some time for reading every day — your mind (and body) will thank you!