Between completing books assigned for English classes and reading primary sources in history classes, finding time to read for enjoyment can be difficult. When time to read is scarce, reading for enjoyment can feel pointless. However, there are many benefits to reading, simply for the pleasure of it.

In a study conducted by the University of Sussex, participants who read for at least six minutes a day experienced less muscle tension and a slower heart rate. Reading also improves sleep quality, as the activity is a low-stress calming nighttime ritual. Another positive impact of reading is increased empathy toward others. In an article published by Science Adviser, it was found that reading books different from someone’s life experience helps them gain understanding toward others.

When looking for something to read, it’s important to find a book that sparks your interest, something you are genuinely excited about delving into. However, not all books are great for improving health. A study published by Piedmont Health found that reading negative books, like crime novels, can set off mirror neurons, causing the readers to feel as if the events in the novel are happening to them. Even though finding time to enjoy reading is difficult, it is worth it.

If you’ve never been interested in reading, a great way to start is listening to an audiobook, choosing a book with shorter chapters, or setting reasonable goals, like reading a chapter a week. For book recommendations, check out the review on “Cloud Cuckoo Land” and “Remarkably Bright Creatures.”