ICYMI, we’re obsessed with reading. To paint you a picture, we recently teamed up with Reese’s Book Club to launch a Reading Room design package, and have dissected what makes for a beautiful and inspiring reading space many times over (see here, here, and here).
But at the end of the day, our love of reading is rooted in self-care (or shelf-care as we call it). There’s nothing we love more than pouring a hot tea or a glass of wine, setting up camp in our favorite oversized armchair, and breezing through a page-turner at the end of long work day.
Like masking, exercising, and meditation, reading is a worthwhile, time-honored pursuit that offers a much-needed reprieve from the chaos of our day-to-day lives. Just ask Amy Morrison, Libby Christenson, and Elizabeth Scouler Burke — three wellness specialists that not only enjoy reading on a personal level, but recommend it to clients looking to relax and recharge.
“Reading has always gone hand and hand with wellness, we just didn’t have that exact terminology 15 years ago,” says Burke. Morrison agrees, adding that “reading is a great way to calm our brains and support our mental wellness while enjoying ourselves.”
Ahead, Burke, Morrison, and Christenson explain why reading is an essential form of self-care on a personal and scientific level. Yet another reason we should all add “read more” to our personal goal lists.
1. It's mentally and physically relaxing
Morrison, Christenson, and Burke all agree: Reading is a tangible reminder to relax and simply enjoy. And Reading Rooms are a physical embodiment that it’s time to unwind, find calm, and embark on a new chapter. “When I step into my designated reading space, my brain and body recalibrate — I know that nothing needs to be completed or accomplished,” says Christenson. “My brain remembers that this is my ‘sacred space,’ and I can mentally let go and get lost in my reading material.”
Morrison seconds this notion, adding that “having a devoted reading area creates a pattern in our brains,” she explains. “When we enter that go-to space, we’re able to slip back into that familiar, relaxed state of mind and put stress on the back burner.”
2. It's a healthy form of escapism
To that end, reading is also a healthy and welcome form of escapism — a mental health strategy that, when utilized appropriately, can help us live in the present moment and indulge our imaginations. “Reading allows us to learn something new, get lost in a character, and expose ourselves to new, interesting ideas,” says Morrison. “Fiction in particular can serve as a healthy escape and give us a break from our day-to-day lives.”
Burke agrees on a personal level, noting that reading allows her to “hand someone else the reins,” and “dive into a different world” in a way that’s both restful and invigorating. “Our nervous system needs a break from constant and often unwanted stimulation,” she adds. “You can take books anywhere and reenter that relaxing, creative bubble in minutes, whether you’re riding the train home or reading in the park.”
3. It offers a break from technology
Anyone who’s attempted a smartphone cleanse knows that unplugging from tech is easier said than done. But reading is a naturally tech-free activity that offers a much-needed mental break from social media, email, and our “always on” culture.
“I always put my phone in a charging station or drawer while reading so I can fully unplug,” says Morrison. “This helps me deepen my connection to myself, my body, and my mind while catching up on my favorite novel.” Christenson reemphasizes the benefit of unplugging while reading. “I love that reading keeps me off screens and into a flow state,” adds Christenson. “This keeps my brain healthy and ignites my sense of imagination and fantasy.”
4. It provides needed solitude
Introverts aren’t the only people that need alone time to rest and recharge — Burke contends that solitude is an important tenant of self-care across the board. “So much of life is busy, and so much of our personal and professional lives are conducted via screens, so it’s especially crucial to carve out time to be alone,” says Burke. “Reading along with meditation, journaling, and movement offer us the alone time necessary to honor and look after ourselves.”
Yes, you do need a designated reading space in your life. Take our style quiz and select “Reading Room” to begin a new chapter in your own home – and wellness journey.