Some people tend to enjoy reading books for hours, but others find it boring making them feeling sleepy. But, then, several studies already suggested reading books can improve your mood; it makes you happier and makes you feel less stressed and depressed.
For instance, researchers from the University of Liverpool in the U.K. surveyed over 4,000 adults and found those who regularly read feel less stressed and depressed, they have higher self-esteem levels, and they could able to cope with challenges. The report, which was released in 2015, revealed that readers believe the best tonic for a low mood or anxiety was reading a book. They also prefer reading books rather than taking a head-clearing walk, chatting with friends, or watching TV, as reported by the South China Morning Post.
According to Dr. Josie Billington from the Center for Research into Reading, Literature, and Society at the University of Liverpool, reading helps people think of the activities or occupations they once pursued or knowledge and skills they still possess. The lead researcher of the report said reading restores the person's sense of having a place and purpose in the world.
Additionally, reading also helps people realize they are not alone, especially when dealing with their problems. For example, they might have read a book whose characters are also facing the same challenges; they could relate to these characters and tend to feel better about their own lives. Regular readers also feel a sense of accomplishment, pride, and self-worth after finishing a book - or just by starting it after not reading for a long time.
Meanwhile, a study in 2009 conducted by the University of Sussex in the UK found that reading for just six minutes could already reduce heart rate, minimize muscle tension, and decrease stress levels by up to 68 percent - compared to other stress-reduction methods like going for a walk or listening to music. It doesn't matter whatever book you read, said study co-author and cognitive neuropsychologist Dr. David Lewis. What's more important, he noted, reading a book helps you escape from the worries and stresses of the everyday world.
For Anthea Lung, a school guidance counselor living on Hong Kong Island, everything around her seems to fade away when reading; she described the feeling that she gets as "addictive." She said reading opened her mind to new experiences and has her find clarity. When she feels overwhelmed, reading is her respite.
Many believe reading is a solo activity, but it can be social as well. There are several book clubs where you can meet with other readers regularly to talk about specific books. This is a good way to meet new people with the same interest, to freely express your opinion, and to share your love of books with others.
The Silent Book Club (SBC), for instance, usually meets once a month in public places such as restaurant, park or café. Originated in the United States in 2012, SBC currently has 50 chapters around the world - the Hong Kong chapter was established back in September 2018 and Lung organizes the SBC gatherings in the city. She said that aside from meeting new people and getting recommendations, the gatherings also allows members to have one quiet hour where they can just read and relax.
