Reading for Pleasure
“We don’t just want kids exercising in gym class, we want them to continue to exercise when they get home, so it’s the same with reading,” said Martin-Chang.
There was a time when I thought reading was just another assignment from school. You know, which you have to do. But, when I picked up a book and started reading it, it felt like a totally another world. I don’t even remember when it was or what the book was about, what I surely do know is that I forgot where I was. I was disappeared into someone else’s world, living their life.
That’s when I realized something important- reading is not just about some words on pages, but escaping into another world when real life seems too much. It’s about understanding people and their stories in a way you could’ve never imagined.
My Story of Reading
A few years ago, I started reading, and although I can't recall the very first book, I do remember how magical it felt. At the time, many of my classmates were always discussing the books they’d read, and reading was even becoming a trendy habit online. That time I started reading just to be part of the conversation in that ‘cool kids group’. But honestly, now I read books for my pleasure. Now, reading has become one of my favorite hobbies. I especially enjoy it in the early morning or just before bed when everything is still and quiet. No, no, no I don’t read self-help or biographies! I remember I decided to read a biography of Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam but till date I haven’t finished it.
Benefits of Reading for Pleasure
Books don’t just have to be for your self-help. They can be read when you need a break, or feel that life is just too boring. It could be a mystery novel with the twists you never even thought of, or could be about the magic of fantasy. Books can have stories about two kindred souls or about some spooky ghosts.
Reading for pleasure is not just a leisure activity; it’s a powerful tool for personal development, intellectual enrichment, and emotional well-being. Reading can help you relax your mind and body, slowing down breathing and heart rate. Scientists say that reading can reduce stress levels up to 68%. Reading can help you build your vocabulary which can improve your speaking and writing skills as well. I remember time when I learnt hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia is the technical word for fear of long words. Isn’t that exciting? Early reading for pleasure is linked to less screen time.
The book ‘Anne of Green Gables’ by Lucy Maud Montgomery, helped me to be a lot more empathetic person. This book taught me a lot of big words as well. Recently I read a murder mystery ‘Good Girl’s Guide to Murder’ by Holly Jackson, in which it taught me persistence, questioning assumptions, and the pursuit of justice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, reading for fun is more than just a way to pass time—it helps us think better, understand others, relax, and learn new things. By picking up a book we enjoy, we grow as people and take care of our minds, showing that reading is good for both our heart and brain.
