Many people are aware that reading regularly is good for their brains. However, they may not know exactly how it improves the mind, or that reading is also good for their health. If you’re not a frequent reader, you might be missing out on some important perks. We’re here to tell you all about the benefits reading can bring, besides knowledge and entertainment.

Reading boosts intelligence.

Reading, especially starting at a young age, expands your knowledge horizons. In fact, children’s books expose kids to 50% more words than television does. The vocabulary they learn while reading often results in higher scores on both reading and general knowledge tests. Better reading skills in children can also lead to higher intelligence as adults.

Reading improves your brain power.

Just like hitting the gym exercises your muscles, reading exercises your brain. Reading frequently helps slow down the memory-decline process as you age and helps keep your mind sharp. Avid readers can also be up to 2.5 times less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than those who participate in less brain-stimulating activities.

Reading can also enhance your short-term memory.

Think about all the information you take in when you read a book. You’re learning new characters’ names, plot lines and words with every turn of a page. The more you read, the better your brain gets at storing fresh information. So keep on reading, and you’ll be able to stop flipping back to old pages.

Reading can help with depression and stress.

A study of depressed patients in a mental ward showed a positive improvement in patients when they read aloud. They reported feeling better with a more positive outlook. Self-help books are best for those with more severe cases of depression, as books are a low-intensity form of intervention. Reading has also been found to reduce stress by nearly 68%, according to researchers.

Reading can make you more empathetic.
 

Fiction novels, in particular, help readers understand other people’s emotions. By relating to characters in a book, many people can translate that empathy to those they interact with in their daily lives.

Reading before bed can help you fall asleep.
 

A nighttime ritual, like reading, can signal to your body that it’s time to sleep. However, if you’re going to start this routine, make sure you’re reading physical books. Screens on devices like e-readers and tablets will keep you awake longer and can give you a worse night’s sleep.

Reading is beneficial in so many ways. It’s great for both your mental and physical health, and is a great way to spend your time. If you’re looking for a new hobby, try your hand at being a bookworm, and you’ll feel better in more ways than one.