As a child, I found comfort in the pages of a book every night before sleep. Growing up, a streetlight outside my window provided just enough illumination for my late-night reading sessions, even when my bedroom light was turned off. (I’m nearsighted, so I wouldn’t recommend straining your eyes in the dark.) Nothing could deter me from my literary adventures.
Engrossed in my books, I would often lose track of everything around me, even when my brothers playfully hurled objects my way to break my concentration. Occasionally, they succeeded, but most times, I was blissfully unaware.
My childhood obsession with the Narnia series was so intense that I’d sometimes nibble on tiny bits of paper from the pages—yes, I know, it’s odd. Recently, I had a chuckle when my daughter reported that my son was doing the exact same thing; strangely, I felt a sense of pride.
So, is munching on books a good idea? Absolutely not! However, diving into a good story before bed is a far better alternative to scrolling through social media or playing games. Reading can lead to better sleep, enhanced cognitive abilities, improved memory retention, and a mental workout. We devote considerable time and resources to maintaining our physical health, yet we often neglect our minds. Furthermore, reading fosters empathy and understanding, making us better individuals.
While television has its allure—transporting me to distant galaxies or teaching me survival skills—it’s reading that allows me to step into someone else’s shoes. Through books, I’ve experienced life during the Cultural Revolution in China, traversed the Pacific Coast Trail, endured poverty in India, survived slavery in America, confronted life with a disfigured face, and even embraced the Amish lifestyle.
Yet, in recent years, I’ve strayed from my cherished bedtime reading and opted for a mix of TV, tablet games, and social media. Honestly, I feel a little duller for it.
Cognitive neuropsychologist Dr. Liam Parker states, “Regardless of the book, immersing yourself in an engaging narrative allows you to escape life’s stresses and delve into the author’s imagination. This engagement is not just a distraction; it actively stimulates your creativity and can even alter your state of consciousness.”
I’m ready to rekindle my reading habit—who’s with me?
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In summary, embracing the habit of reading before bed not only enriches your mind but also fosters a deeper understanding of the world. So, swap out the screen time for some quality book time, and experience the myriad adventures waiting for you within the pages.