WHY TO READ ? ?
What is Reading
Reading is like Walking. Both are so simple and extremely effective that their benefits often get ignored. While reading, we use words to visualize and imagine what is being said. In the process, a greater percentage of our brain gets used up. Our entire brain gets in action to encode the words, visualize it and make sense of it.
The process is somewhat similar to Meditation where only a single or no thought is allowed to reside in the brain.
Watching TV is more like spoon-feeding a baby. The visual effects, the pitch and tone in which the dialogues have to be delivered, the character descriptions are all there in front of you. Since the brain always takes the path of least resistance, it is more in a passive state as it is not being used. Reports also claim that long hours of watching TV make a person more dull and inactive.
Why should you Read.
It has been seen that people who read often are more calm and at peace with themselves.
They have lesser blood pressure fluctuations and are more in control of the events around them. They feel more connected with themselves and have a higher self-esteem. Many people also get rid of their negative thoughts after they resort to reading. Since they are better informed, they take better decisions.
They can listen to what is not said. This means that they can sense the subjectivity behind what is apparently objective for the others. They can read between the lines. They are more empathetic and also anticipate events better. They have the fantastic quality to relate between events, however weird those may seem.
Our perceptions change as we read books, meet people and travel. . As we feed our brain and soul with good books, the halo increases and peace resides in our self. We become more stable and committed to whatever and whomever we connect to.
Continued Learning
One in never to old to learn more. The pitcher of knowledge should never be full. Today's world is an ever changing world. Change for development, for betterment of our lives. Information and knowledge are the drivers of this continuous change .
All thesse quotes of great men will tell you the virtues of reading. But let me point to you one simple reason. Once you finished your education and stepped into working life, can you afford to stop the process of learning. On the other hand it would also not be practical to enroll and continue academic education all your life. So it is here where you fill the gap by reading good books and magazines. Of course there are other ways you will gain knowledge, by experience, listening to good people, watching good programmes, travel, being in good company, etc.
A good magazine or book can improve your skills, your way of thinking, give you edge above the rest.
Let us take an example of a woman's magazine, it gives you so much information to manage your life. Tips on parenting, advice on health issues, religion and spirituality, recipes on wonderful dishes which can make your family love you, and so may others. A kids magazine on the other hand sharpens your child with wits, general knowledge, making him/her shine above the rest. If you are working, knowledge of the business world and current affairs will update and equip you with first hand information, making you decisive. A computer magazine will open the gateway to new software and hardware, lead you to new tips and tricks on the software you use everyday, the much needed advantage to make you work less hours. The benefits are endless. So enjoy reading and prosper.