Growing up, teachers and parents always reminded students to read. Over time, reading can come to feel more like a burden than a source of enjoyment for some. However, this pastime is a valuable and increasingly overlooked habit, especially with the rise of technology and social media. Not only does reading positively impact schoolwork, but it also benefits the mind and overall well-being.

With the growth of streaming platforms and social media, youth and teenagers often choose to spend their free time scrolling. Additionally, as students grow older, busy schedules and homework begin to take over their free time. Others simply find themselves uninterested in reading, even when they have spare time. Senior Auriel Windle elaborates on why she doesn’t particularly enjoy reading.

“I don’t like reading because it makes me fall asleep,” Windle said. “As a creative person, I’d rather do something more hands-on that allows me to exercise my creative side.”

No matter the reason, considering ways to reclaim reading time could be incredibly impactful. Regular reading can expose students to new vocabulary and ideas they might not have encountered otherwise. It can also strengthen comprehension and communication skills while exposing readers to new cultures, beliefs, and experiences. Senior Kyle Cousino expands on how he feels reading can improve the mind.

“When you consume literature from other people’s perspectives, you broaden your own perspective,” Cousino said. “I think that’s really important.”

Furthermore, studies have shown that children who use their phones within 30 minutes before bed have a harder time falling asleep than the average person. Phones suppress natural melatonin production, disrupting the body’s sleep signals and leading to poorer sleep quality. A poor night’s sleep can affect concentration and learning abilities, decreasing overall focus in class. By replacing phone usage before bed with reading, individuals can establish a healthier nighttime routine and significantly improve sleep.

Many people find reading more enjoyable when they discover books that genuinely interest them. When this happens, reading can become more of a leisure activity and less of a burden.

“I only used to read at school because I found that the books at school [didn’t interest me],” Cousino said. “Once I started reading on my own, I found what I liked, which allowed me to be more interested in reading.”

At the end of the day, nobody can be forced to read, and some may not have the chance to on a daily basis due to a packed schedule. If it has been a while since you’ve cracked open a book, consider taking a few minutes in your free time to try it; you’ll find that daily reading has many benefits.