Many are aware of the fact that physical exercise is necessary to maintain good health. Staying active helps reduce health risk for conditions ranging from heart disease to cancer. The mind, like the body, should also be frequently exercised to maintain healthy cognitive function. You can flex your brain muscles by playing card or board games, engaging in new hobbies and learning new skills to challenge yourself, or discussing topics like current events with your friends. But one of the simplest ways to keep those neurons firing is reading. The benefits of reading are wide-ranging, regardless of whether you’re perusing a magazine, flipping through your local newspaper, or paging through a book. Read on to find out more about the many health benefits of reading.
Improves Your Concentration
There’s no better way to improve or maintain your ability to concentrate than by being absorbed in a good book. Today’s culture is obsessed with multi-tasking and is chock-full of distractions brought about by modern technology. With an increasing number of tasks demanding your attention, it seems only natural that the average attention span is shrinking. Avert the crisis by having your nose down in a good book, and reap the benefits of an increased attention span.
Lowers Your Stress Levels
It may not be obvious, but reading can actually help to lower your stress levels. Getting caught up in the recently released spy thriller from your favorite articles, or engaged in a riveting thinkpiece about one of your topics of interest in your publication of choice, can help you put your worries at the back of your mind. Engaging in habits that lead to stress reduction is important, because stress can lead you to indulge in negative behaviors like excessive drinking, overeating and smoking. Staying relaxed can make it easier for you to lead a healthier lifestyle.
Maintains Cognitive Health
If you’re reading every day, chances are you’re always learning something new. Even reading the recent spy thriller can help you pick up some tidbits about new cities or countries where the story is unfolding. Or if the book is a romance novel, you might still be picking up some information about a career that the main lead is currently pursuing. And it’s undeniable that flipping through the newspaper will keep you up to speed on current events. Constantly acquiring new knowledge can help your brain stay active and healthy.
Builds New Friendships
If you love reading, you might want to join a book club to engage in enthusiastic discussion about your favorite book with some like-minded individuals. Joining a book club is an easy gateway to building fast friendships. Book clubs also tend to be easily found, from small bookstores to regional libraries, and membership is free!
Our Rittenhouse Village At Muhlenberg Retirement Community
Many choose to join retirement communities in their golden years because of the enriching activities on offer that help them to stay engaged and fulfilled. Rittenhouse Village At Muhlenberg has no shortage of fun activities, with our Celebrations program. Our full-time activities director plans fun outings, educational programs, themed parties and games with our residents in mind. Coupled with a diverse range of amenities, life is never boring at our retirement community!
