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Read Books (but Don’t Snack on Them) Before Bedtime
by Samantha Green
Updated: Dec. 20, 2015
Originally Published: April 26, 2015
As a child, I had a nightly ritual of diving into books while snuggled up in bed. My bedroom had a magical glow from a light illuminating our backyard, making it possible to read even when my bedside lamp was off. (For the record, squinting in the dark isn’t advisable, especially if you’re nearsighted like I was.) But nothing could deter me from my reading adventures.
I would get so engrossed in my daytime novels, cozied up in a plush armchair, that my surroundings faded into the background. My brothers would sometimes throw objects at me, attempting to snap me out of my reading zone, and, surprisingly, it only worked on rare occasions.
I had such an obsession with the Narnia series that I would occasionally rip off tiny pieces of the pages and, believe it or not, nibble on them. It sounds odd, I know. Recently, when my daughter caught my son doing the same thing, a swell of pride washed over me.
So, is it a good idea to munch on your books? Absolutely not. But reading before bed is a fantastic alternative to scrolling through social media or playing games like Candy Crush. It promotes better sleep, enhances cognitive abilities, strengthens memory retention, and provides a great workout for your brain. While we often invest time and energy into our physical health, we frequently neglect our mental fitness, which is just as vital. Plus, reading fosters empathy, making us more compassionate individuals.
Though TV has its charms—transporting me to distant galaxies or teaching me life-saving skills—it’s reading that truly allows me to experience life through the eyes of others. Through books, I’ve journeyed through the Cultural Revolution in China, trekked the Pacific Coast Trail, faced poverty in India, endured slavery in America, seen the world from the perspective of someone stigmatized, become a superhero, and even lived an Amish lifestyle.
However, in recent years, I’ve fallen into a routine dominated by television, tablet games, and social media, and I can’t help but feel a bit dimmer for it. Cognitive neuropsychologist Dr. Jason Hartman notes, “It doesn’t matter what you read; immersing yourself in a compelling book allows you to escape daily stresses and explore the author’s imagination. This goes beyond distraction; it actively engages your creativity, leading you to a state of heightened consciousness.“
Let’s make a pact to reignite our love for nighttime reading! If you’re interested in enhancing your parenting journey, check out our guide on at-home insemination kits, which can be found here. And if you want to delve deeper into fertility options, this site offers valuable insights into the topic.
In summary, reading before bed not only enriches your mind but also cultivates empathy and a deeper understanding of the human experience. So, put down that remote, pick up a book, and get ready to explore new worlds!
Keyphrase: bedtime reading benefits
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