The Benefits of Reading

Why Books Matter More Than Ever

At Aveson, we’re unapologetically pro-reading. Sure, it’s fun to get lost in a good story, but the benefits of reading go far beyond entertainment. Science shows that books can sharpen your mind, improve your mood, and even strengthen your connections with others. Whether you’re a daily reader or someone who hasn’t cracked a spine in years, this is your invitation to rediscover why reading matters - for your brain, your wellbeing, and the world around you.

The Science Behind Reading

We’ll be the first to admit that we're not scientists. But we do pay attention to those who study the effects of reading, and the consensus is clear - books don’t just entertain us, they change us for the better.

Here are a few ways that science backs this up:

• Focus & Cognitive Strength: Reading activates multiple regions across both hemispheres of the brain, strengthening connections that support memory and concentration. Unlike endless scrolling on our phones or computers, books train our brains to focus for longer stretches of time - a mental workout that keeps your mind sharp as you age.
• Improved Memory: Studies suggest reading can slow memory decline and improve thinking skills. This is particularly important for those suffering from Alzheimer's or dementia. While reading can’t fully prevent these diseases, research from the NIH shows it helps reduce the risk of cognitive deterioration.
• Empathy & Perspective: Reading fiction lights up the same brain regions we use to understand real people’s feelings and emotions. That’s why regular readers often score higher on empathy tests. Books literally train us to step into someone else’s shoes - something we sure think the world could use more of.
• Stress Reduction: A University of Sussex study found that reading for just six minutes can reduce stress levels by up to 68%. That’s more effective than listening to music or taking a walk.
• Better Sleep: Reading before bed helps your body wind down, lowering your heart rate and easing you into sleep, as well as helping you stay asleep longer. Just stick to paper books, as the blue light from e-readers can keep your brain wired.
• Vocabulary Expansion: Reading exposes people to new words and phrases, helping them communicate more clearly and express themselves more accurately. Of course, there’s always the risk of confidently mispronouncing these new and fun words in public (been there, done that), but that’s a risk worth taking!

Every time you open a book, you’re not just enjoying a story - you’re strengthening your brain, lowering stress, and boosting empathy.

Reading’s Ripple Effects

Beyond the science, reading sparks creativity and resets your mood. Innovators often credit books as their biggest source of inspiration, and unlike screens, books don’t leave you zombified and can actually help reduce screen fatigue.

Even better, reading is contagious. When kids see adults enjoying books, they’re more likely to pick up the habit themselves. Additionally, reading aloud to children not only strengthens their problem-solving skills but also deepens the bond between the reader and the child.

In other words, your reading habit doesn’t just benefit you - it helps shape the next generation.

How to Get Back Into Reading

If you’re already a regular reader, you know the rewards. But if you’ve fallen out of the habit, getting back into it doesn’t have to be intimidating. Here are some easy ways to start:

• Start small: Short stories, essays, or graphic novels are great entry points. You don’t need to tackle War and Peace right away (or ever).
• Follow your curiosity: Pick topics you genuinely enjoy, whether it's fantasy, history, self-improvement, or something else that excites you. Reading should feel like a treat, not homework.
• Create a ritual: Pick and time and place that you can stick to. It could be ten minutes before bed, a chapter with your morning coffee, or an audiobook on your commute. Consistency matters more than speed.
• Join a community: There are countless book clubs (in-person or virtual) and online forums you can take part in, making reading more social and fun. Sharing your thoughts keeps you engaged and accountable.

A Challenge To You

Here’s my challenge: pick one book this week. Just one. And dedicate some time each day, whether it’s 15 minutes or two hours, to reading.

And remember that you don't need to buy books in order to read. Libraries are incredible resources that not only allow you to borrow books for free, but they also provide community programs that benefit the community.

But, if you do choose to buy from Aveson, know that your purchase has impact. We donate 50% of our profits to schools and libraries, and we plant one tree for every 10 books sold.

So grab a book, open it up, and take the first step toward improving your brain health, your mood, and maybe even the world around you.