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It’s no secret that moms are busy and have very limited time to themselves. Reading may not be at the top of your list as a mom, but making time to read can be very beneficial. Whether you loved to read before becoming a mom or not, you may find it has extra benefits now!
Joseph Addison, an essayist, poet, playwright, and politician from the 18th century once said, “Reading is to the mind what exercise is to the body.” According to more recent studies, it’s actually true that reading is very, very good for you.
How to Make Time to Read
1Unplug
Throughout the day we are so connected to technology, which is becoming more and more of a necessity. It’s important for everyone to take time daily to unplug, but it’s especially important for moms to unplug. We spend so much time doing and thinking for others, our brain needs that break to escape for a bit. You’ll find that if you spend 20-30 minutes reading per day, you’ll be able to focus more when it comes time to switch gears.
2Keep a Positive, Inspired Outlook
Reading is a great way to stay inspired, motivated and positive. Even getting fiction books to read can inspire and motivate you through the stories of others’ lives. If you struggle to keep a positive mindset, daily reading positive books can really help to give you a quick reset.
3Continuing to Learn and Grow
Happiness truly can be found in progress, so if we feel that we are constantly learning and growing we will naturally be happier. Reading about topics you’ve always wanted to learn about is a great way to feel accomplished. Also, choosing books to read that focus on areas you struggle with is a great way to improve yourself overall and feel like you are growing as a person. For example, if you are struggling with confidence you can read books that focus on improving self-confidence. If you are struggling with managing your finances, you can read about budgeting and finance to feel more in control, and learn new ways to better your life.
4Improve Conversational Skills
You will find that if you are consistently finding books to read, you will naturally have an easier time having conversations, even with other moms at the playground. They will also appreciate all of your amazing tips and insights that you have learned from reading so many great books, or just a good book suggestion! Having more to offer others is a great perk to being a daily reader.
5Reduce Stress
Ease tension in your muscles and your heart while letting your brain wander to new ideas and live in someone else’s shoes. Reading is literally like a vacation for your brain that reduces stress and lets you relax. Reading can increase blood flow and improve connectivity to the brain. As you can see, reading is really, really good for you. Becoming a more consistent reader can improve your life socially, physically, academically and spiritually. Now that you know the benefits, here are some ideas to get you started!
5 Non-Fiction Books to Read
- Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are So You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be by Rachel Hollis
A popular read among women today, many women find this book to be relatable, inspiring, funny, and encouraging. - The Compound Effect by Darren Hardy
While this is a popular business book, it also applies to all areas of your life and habits. If you want to change anything about your life, this is a great book to start with! - The 5 Second Rule by Mel Robbins
Life changer. Again, a book that applies to your entire life and can inspire permanent change from small habits to big hang-ups. - Mastering Your Mean Girl: The No-BS Guide to Silencing Your Inner Critic and Becoming Wildly Wealthy, Fabulously Healthy, and Bursting with Love by Melissa Ambrosini
We all have an inner mean girl, and this book helps us improve our lives by silencing her! - Bittersweet by Shauna Niequist
Whether it’s miscarriage, job loss, relationship problems, etc. this book is about embracing the bitter, as well as the sweet and using it to change and grow us.
5 Fiction Books to Read
- The Best of Me by Nicholas Sparks
The Best of Me features two former lovers who wonder if the choices they made long ago can be rewritten by their still strong connection. - Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Set in the 1930s, a former veterinary student, orphaned and penniless, takes a job in a traveling circus and falls in love with the ringmaster’s wife. - Kisses from Katie: A Story of Relentless Love and Redemption by Katie J. Davis, Beth Clark, Katie Davis Majors
Katie moved to Uganda at the young age of 19 and became the adoptive mother of 14 children! Katie’s life is an inspiration that will leave you wanting to love and serve just as Katie has done. - Wishing For a Highlander by Jessi Gage
Melanie hadn’t exactly wished to be left single and pregnant by a cheating ex. But that’s exactly where she found herself while also trying to maintain her job working at the Charleston Museum. See how she is saved by a handsome, but reclusive highlander. - Iron Butterfly by Lisa Wainland
In an instant, Cassie receives sudden, life-changing news and realizes that losing everything might become a terrifying reality. In this book you’ll learn valuable lessons about love, forgiveness and appreciating the days we’re given.
There are so many great books to read out there, the options are endless! You can squeeze in reading time in the early mornings to start the day off right, through audiobooks in the car, and as a bedtime routine to wind down in the evenings. Making time to read will surely change your life for the better. Happy reading, fellow moms!
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Source: This is your brain on Jane Austen, and Stanford researchers are taking notes
Photo Credit: Unsplash
