You’re never too old to enjoy a good book – and reading brings you so many benefits.

When you’re young, you read a lot of books. First, you learn to read. Then, you read while you study at school and university. But what about after that? Many people who were avid readers when they were young gradually stop reading so many books as an adult. It’s understandable; you have a lot less time due to work and family, and there’s so much more competition for your attention.

The thing is, reading books is excellent no matter what age you are. Reading brings you several benefits which you may not even know about. In this article, we’ll look at three reasons why, as an adult, you should make time for reading.

1 – Reading is fun

This may be pretty obvious, and if you still read a lot as an adult, it’s probably the reason why you still love to open a book (or switch on your Kindle). However, it still needs saying. Reading is great fun!

Books deliver stories as detailed and gripping as any movie or TV show. Reading allows you to shut the rest of the world out and enjoy being in the world created by the author. There’s nothing like that ‘just one more page’ feeling.

Plus, if you borrow books from a friend or the library, it’s literally free entertainment. You won’t get that from Netflix!

2 – Reading makes you smarter

When you read a book, fiction or nonfiction, whatever it is, you learn something.

When you read a fiction book, you’ll learn about new ways of seeing the world. It boosts your empathy and emotional intelligence. You’ll also learn new words and expand your vocabulary.

Nonfiction books will improve your knowledge on whatever subject you choose. Applying what you learn on a practical level in your work or business, for example, boosts your chances of success.

Reading also improves your focus, as you have to block out the rest of the world and pay attention to just the words.

3 – Reading makes you healthier

Can you believe that something as entertaining as reading is also good for your health? Research shows that reading stimulates the brain and can slow the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. It also improves your memory.

Reading also helps you relax and relieve stress. Stress is the cause of so many mental and physical illnesses, but when you focus on a book and nothing else, it lowers your blood pressure and makes you feel better.

Finally, reading helps you sleep. When you make reading a book or non-backlit Kindle (not your phone) before you go to sleep, you’ll get to sleep faster and sleep better.

Give it a try!

Who would have thought that a simple book could bring so many benefits? Remember, there’s no right or wrong way to read. Just grab a book you think you’ll enjoy and dive in. Sure, your life may be hectic, but with a bit of time management, you could find half an hour to dedicate to reading. Then, you’ll probably want to build up from there.

So, now you know the benefits of reading as an adult, what are you waiting for? Put your screen away and grab your book (or Kindle) right now; you’ll be glad you did.