Reading books may improve both your physical and mental health with benefits that can last for a lifetime. It also may strengthen our mind and body for the better.

According to a growing body of studies reading literally changes individuals’ minds, researchers have confirmed that reading involves a complex network of circuits and signals in the brain by using Magnetic Resonance Imaging scans. 

As people’s reading skills improve, those networks become more effective and sophisticated.

The researchers explained that people who read literary fiction stories that explore the inner lives of characters have a greater ability to comprehend others’ feelings and opinions. 

This ability is called the “theory of thought”,  a set of skills that are essential for creating, navigating, and maintaining social relationships. 

“I started reading novels at a young age, and I gradually developed large vocabularies. And the vocabulary size can influence many aspects of my life, from scores on standardized tests to college admissions and career opportunities,” said Highline student Lianna Bryian.

Furthermore, another benefit of reading is that it helps in reducing the stress that is mentioned by Highline student Leo Gowensha who said they read for 30 minutes to help reduce their heart rate and feelings of physiological stress.

Stress management is an integral part of our lives. We all have a lot on our minds at any given moment, we often become paralyzed by everyday activities or reach a point of complete exhaustion in our careers.