Why You Should Stop Watching Streaming Platforms and Read a Book
It’s no secret that streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu and Amazon Prime Video have taken over the entertainment world. It seems like everyone is glued to their screens watching their favorite shows. While there’s nothing wrong with watching a little TV, we think you should stop watching streaming platforms and start reading books!
Books are a great way to escape reality and jump into another world that is often more interesting than your own. Books allow readers to explore new worlds that they might not otherwise encounter. It can be a fun way to learn about different cultures and lifestyles while also providing a sense of relaxation. They can take you on wild adventures, make you laugh out loud or even make you cry. But most importantly, books can teach us about life and help us grow as people. If you’re looking for a way to improve your mental health, learn new things, or just escape the mundane reality of everyday life, then we highly recommend picking up a book!
Here are a few reasons why you should read books instead of watching streaming platforms:
^ Books are affordable- You don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a good book. Unlike streaming platforms, which often require a monthly subscription, books are relatively inexpensive. You can usually find them for under $20, and libraries offer free options as well.
^ Books are better for your mental health. A study by the University of London found that reading can reduce stress levels by 68%. That’s because when you read, your body relaxes, and your mind is free to wander. Books are portable. You can take them anywhere! Whether you’re going on a long car ride or taking a trip to the beach, books are the perfect travel companions, and they require no internet connection. So next time you’re feeling stressed, reach for a book instead of the remote.
^ Books can improve your memory. When you read, you engage your working memory, which is responsible for short-term memory recall. This means that reading can help you remember things better!
^ Books make you more empathetic. Reading fiction has been shown to increase empathy and understanding of others. This is because when you read a book, you’re able to see the world from someone else’s perspective.
^ Books can help you sleep better. If you’re having trouble sleeping, reading before bed can help. That’s because it relaxes your mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep.
^ Books can help you learn new things. When you read, you expose yourself to new information and ideas that you might not otherwise encounter, and reading forces you to engage with the ideas in a way that staring at a Netflix documentary never will. This can help expand your horizons, because knowledge is power!
But beyond all of these reasons, reading a book is one of the great joys of life because it allows you to escape into another world in a way that watching TV can, because reading a book instead of turning on the TV is an active experience. When you read, you create the story in your head, which is more engaging than passively watching a show. Books can improve your imagination. When you read, you engage with the story, which allows your mind to wander and come up with new ideas. This means that reading can help improve your imagination! This, in turn, makes reading a much more enjoyable and enriching experience.
Reading is one of the great cultural equalizers — it’s something that everyone can enjoy, no matter who you are or where you come from. For centuries, books have been a source of knowledge and entertainment, and we believe they’re still the best way to spend your free time.
So there you have it! These are just a few of the many reasons why you should stop watching streaming platforms and open up that novel that’s been on your bookshelf for years.
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Content by Audere Magazine; Image by Pexels.
