Reading for Health

Most of us enjoy sitting down with a good book, but have you ever considered that reading can be a very therapeutic process? It can, in fact aid relaxation and reduce stress by allowing the reader to escape into a world of imagination and exploration, and bibliotherapy is now a recognised form of self-help and support.

Reading fiction or poetry is a wonderful way of escaping from the stresses and strains of the everyday world and becoming immersed in a situation removed from our own problems. Sometimes we can even find that the characters in a book reflect our own feelings thoughts and dilemmas - perhaps through the author's own life experiences. It can often be reassuring to know that our own problems are not entirely unique and there are ways of moving forward that we may not have considered.

Reading about other people's real life adventures can give us an insight into different lands, cultures and ways of life. If we have dreams of visiting distant shores that we have not been able to realise reading about them can be the next best thing and a wonderful learning experience. Reading can open our minds to a wealth of new possibilities.

Public libraries are a focal point in many towns and cities and are not the musty, sterile environments we may expect. Many libraries now feature comfortable reading areas, computer accessibility and talking books, films and music on loan. There may also be a reader's Book Group near to you, giving you the opportunity to share your reading with others and make new friends.

So, finding time for a good book is about finding time for yourself. Sitting back in your favourite chair with a warming drink and a good read can aid relaxation at the end of a busy day and, for a short time, allow you to escape into a world of literature, imagination and discovery.

The benefits of reading are undeniable and choosing a new book could be one of the most positive things you have done all week. There is much more to reading than you may have considered.

I have taken a little time in choosing books for our on-site Amazon bookstore. Some are about health and wellbeing, of course, but there is also poetry and some fiction and non-fiction that I really think merit a place on your reading "to do" list!

My very best wishes,
Margaret

© Hypno4Health 2008