I am an avid reader. So far this year I’ve read 16 books – all fiction. So, when I came across an article on Inc.com that reading fiction improves your memory, I was pleasantly surprised.
According to research findings, engaging in deep and focused reading, particularly when immersing ourselves in a captivating novel, develops important cognitive abilities such as concentration, empathy, and the capacity to analyze complex information and conflicting viewpoints. Reading not only fills our minds with images and ideas but also reshapes our thinking processes. Who knew it was so scientific?
Richard Restak, a neurologist and the author of 20 books on the brain, wrote a book, The Complete Guide to Memory: The Science of Strengthening Your Mind. In it, he talks about some of the typical memory enhancing activities one can do to sharpen their mind:
- Mind puzzles
- Crosswords
- Using less technology
- Memorizing a shopping list
He also talks about the importance of reading fiction and how it can “exercise” your memory. "People, when they begin to have memory difficulties, tend to switch to reading nonfiction," Restak writes. This struck me as fascinating. But if you think about it, you have to remember everything that happened earlier in the book when reading fiction.
Restak points out a strong correlation between continued enjoyment of novels and retaining a sharp memory into your elder years. This led me to dig a little deeper into the benefits of reading fiction. I found some interesting research on TidyBooks.com:
- Boosted cognitive function and brain connectivity
Reading fiction has the power to enhance your cognitive abilities and strengthen the connections between different parts of your brain. Reading fiction improves your language comprehension and your capacity to imagine and grasp concepts without solely relying on visual stimuli. It's like giving your brain a workout!
- Enhanced empathy and compassion
If you're an avid fiction reader, you're likely to be more compassionate and kind-hearted. Reading fiction has been shown to stimulate the areas of the brain associated with empathy and caring. When you immerse yourself in a fictional world, you naturally step into the shoes of the characters and develop a profound understanding of their emotions. This practice of empathizing with others, even fictional ones, nurtures your ability to exhibit compassion and empathy in your everyday interactions.
- Stress reduction
Just 30 minutes of reading each day can significantly lower the levels of cortisol, commonly known as the "stress hormone," in your brain. Surprisingly, reading has proven to be more effective in reducing stress than listening to music or sipping a soothing cup of tea. So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed, grab your favorite book!
- Improved sleep quality
Reading not only eases stress, but it also promotes better sleep habits. By immersing yourself in a captivating story before bedtime, you reduce your exposure to electronic screens and create a peaceful routine that signals to your brain that it's time to wind down.
- Strengthened relationships
Although reading may seem like a solitary activity, it actually has the ability to enhance your real-life relationships. Scientific studies have revealed that avid readers, particularly those who indulge in fiction, demonstrate improved empathy, social cognition, and prosocial behaviors. So, by immersing yourself in the world of fiction, you're not only enriching your own life but also fostering deeper connections with those around you.
As I stated earlier, I read a lot of fiction. I made the switch to fiction about two years ago and after learning about all these great benefits I’m glad I’m I did! However, I will still read a good business book every month or so. Do you read fiction? Send me your book recommendations to [email protected].