Literature
42
Embracing the joy of reading:
how does reading bring us joy?
A s an English Literature student, it would be too easy R eading is known to bring a sense of calm to people, for me to try and convince you that reading is one of and is much easier to do without any distractions (so life’s many underrated pleasures. Commonly mistaken for simply ‘making people smarter’, reading offers individuals many benefits that can add to quality of life. In a world where we as a society rely on technology on a daily basis, reading allows us to switch off from reality in a positive manner; where we are able to focus on using our imagination and gain perspective. Therefore we must ask why exactly is it so common to hate on reading today? Does technology make it easier to hate reading as an activity? As the modern world continues to develop, so do reading habits. Reading is more accessible than ever before, with e-books and audiobooks on top of physical books (everybody seems to forget that libraries are free), there’s no way reading could go out of style!
put your phone away!). It is similar to meditation in that it is able to transport the mind elsewhere and allow individuals to use their imagination to escape from their own world. This means that those who regularly read are also known to have lower stress levels, as well as better sleeping patterns, and higher self-esteem. As an avid reader myself, I find that confidence levels can increase depending on the relatability of characters and plot. If you are reading a story you feel you can relate to on an emotional level, or if you are able to see your own traits in a character, it could make you feel less lonely and as though your struggles are seen as valid.
