From a young age, we learn that books are the best way to nourish our brains. But in this digitally interconnected age, more and more of us are reading online. We spend our days scrolling through social media, reading headlines, and picking our favorite meme.
At a time when we have access to more information than ever, many of us are intellectually malnourished. At a time when we have access to an unprecedented amount of data, we’re more confused than ever.
This is why books (any and all books) are the perfect antidote to 2020. They allow us a reprieve from the incessant interconnectedness of digital life. And they can be a vacation from the doom, gloom and discord that make up our news feeds. A book can be a gateway into a new world.
Have you let go of the reading habit? Let’s take a look at some ways in which you can get the most from your reading experience…
Create a comfortable environment
Your physical comfort is so important. It’s impossible to get lost in another world if your body is uncomfortable in this one. So grab some cushions, and maybe something to support your back. Don’t lie down if you’re tired. You’ll fall asleep before the end of the first paragraph.
Has it been a while since you curled up with a good book? Reading may be more of an “eye workout” than you remember See yourself better by investing in a new set of reading glasses. You can pick up simple readers at the drugstore.
Try to resist the urge to snack while reading. But a nice cup of calming tea can be the perfect compliment.
Books or ebooks?
There are many opinions about the paper book vs e-book debate. Some like the feel of a book in their hands. Others like the convenience of a reader. But which is easier on your eyes?
While there have been surprisingly few studies on the subject, one suggests that the answer may not be cut and dry.
You might find this surprising. E-readers with LED screens (such as the Kindle Fire or a tablet with the Kindle app installed) could lead to increased eyestrain. However, other models such as the Kindle Paperwhite have a similar effect on the naked eye as a printed paper book.
Step outside of your comfort zone
We need to be able to step outside of our comfort zones to get the most out of our experiences. If you usually stick to fiction, try some non-fiction. If you want to learn more about the civil rights movement, there are numerous books on the subject. There are books that can help you make more money, books to help you find spiritual growth, books to help you make an impression at parties, and everything in between.
Want to try a plant based diet? There are a great many tomes to check out. Or maybe you want to better understand your own subconscious. Whatever your goals, there’s a book to help you achieve them.
And the more willing you are to step outside of your comfort zone, the more growth you can expect.
But don’t deny yourself the joy of reading for pleasure
Of course, that’s not to say that you should turn your back on the books that bring you joy. If you love your trashy romance novels, make sure you incorporate them into your literary diet. If you’ve always had a hankering for pulpy science fiction or fantasy, make sure you bring them into your rotation.
By all means take steps to broaden your horizons. But always make time for things you really enjoy.
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