It’s a well-known fact that reading is good for your mind. When you read, you’re exercising your brain by processing and understanding text.
But, did you know that reading is one of the most beneficial activities you can do for your heart?
Among its many benefits, reading helps improve circulation, reduces stress levels, and strengthens your overall cardiovascular system.
Let’s turn the page to learn more.
4 Ways Reading Is Good For Your Heart
Reading Improves Circulation
Improved circulation is one of the main benefits of reading for your heart. When you read, your body is able to better pump blood and oxygen to your brain to keep it stimulated. This increased circulation can help to improve your overall cardiovascular health by keeping your heart healthy and strong.
Reading Reduces Stress
A 2009 study conducted at the University of Sussex found that reading reduced stress levels by 68 percent, making it a more effective means of relaxation than taking a walk, drinking a cup of tea, or playing video games.
Reading can be a great way to unwind and de-stress by helping you relax and escape from the pressures of everyday life. When you read, your mind is occupied with the story or information that you are taking in. This distraction can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels, which alleviates unnecessary strain on your heart.
Reading Lowers Blood Pressure
Reducing stress and improving circulation are positive factors for blood pressure, so it should come as no surprise that studies have shown that reading can help lower blood pressure and steady heart rate.
Keeping your blood pressure under control is critical when it comes to maintaining a healthy heart.
Reading Improves Sleep
Smartphones have become part of the normal bedtime routine for many. Though it may not seem like a big deal, using devices before bed can significantly impact your sleep (and therefore, your heart) in a very negative way.
During a normal sleep cycle, blood pressure decreases, meaning that lack of sleep or interrupted sleep forces blood pressure to stay heightened for longer or spike.
A study published in Social Science & Medicine found that participants who used their smartphone after “lights out” experienced longer sleep latency, worse sleep efficiency, more sleep disturbance and more daytime dysfunction, a higher insomnia score, and increased fatigue.
The action of reading prior to bed naturally eases the transition from wakefulness to rest (and books don’t have any of that harmful blue light either).
So swap your phone for a good book to ensure you are optimizing your sleep!
Books don’t only benefit your brain – as it turns out, reading is good for your heart! By reading regularly, you can enjoy all of the
cardiovascular benefits that it has to offer.
So, if you’re looking for an easy, engaging way to improve your heart health, pick up a book today and start reading your way to a healthier heart! Bonus points for reading a romance so you can feel the love too!
