We are often asked to cultivate the habit of reading. Reading has many benefits as it gives us immense knowledge making us more creative and improving our thought process. As we know books can be either fiction or non-fiction. Non-fiction books are actually either facts or real life stories like the autobiographies, general knowledge books, encyclopedias and so on. Fiction books are those that have fake stories that are imaginary and made by the writers. It can be a mystery, a drama, a detective or a romantic story, thrillers, horrors and so on. Here the writer pens down his imagination and makes it feel real for the reader who actually visualizes his fake story. As we see the creative aspect the writer puts in the creation of a fiction work, here is all readers got to know how reading fiction will influence them.

Builds the feeling of empathy developing understanding

Empathy means understanding the feelings of others. Reading fiction builds in us a different excitement level that we start getting involved in the storyline and imagine self as the character in the book. I’m sure many of you have experienced this. I always do. This feeling of empathy improves our understanding levels as we ourselves start analysing situations in the book and derive conclusions of what action must follow in course. Psychologists say that reading fiction activates the regions of the brain which are responsible for better understanding and building new perspectives.

Relaxes mind and body

This is a very interesting benefit of reading. Reading a fiction is as good as watching a movie. Our brain needs rest and break from continuous work. Reading puts the mind in a very pleasant state as good as a meditation and calms down the entire neural system de-stressing it. Avid readers are often noted to have sound sleep, low-stress levels, high self-esteem and low depression rate. Just 6 minutes of silent reading can subside the stress in muscles up 68 percent.

Helps to improve and develop relationships

This is very rarely known fact about reading. Reading improves your relationships and it’s scientifically proven. Regular readers maintain better relationships and resolve rifts healthily. Books are great simulators that make readers understand other’s minds and feelings. Fictions help us understand the complications of social life.

Changes our attitude

Reading stories and instances in books and the morals portrayed by them can bring about a drastic change in our attitude. Reading does define our attitude. It shapes our personality too as it has a major influence on our thoughts. For example, if in a certain story, your favourite character emphasizes on charity and helping mankind a lot, you yourself start developing the attitude of helping others. Books are a true guide that will mentor you successfully throughout your life.

Shapes life

Reading makes you feel happy and removes the feeling of loneliness. Books are truly a man’s best friend and are the thing with which you can spend the full day. It also brings in a feeling of contentment in life and makes us feel our lives worthwhile. A survey carried out in the United Kingdom showed about 76 percent of people commented that reading makes their lives happy and peaceful.