Is Reading The Secret to Happiness?

Dr Eleni Savva

Tue, Apr 29, 25

4 minutes read

What if the key to happiness was as simple as picking up a book? Good news: science says it just might be!

1. The Surprising Science Behind Reading and Happiness
2. How Reading Lifts Our Spirits
3. Tips to Make Reading a Happy Habit
4. Final thoughts

The Surprising Science Behind Reading and Happiness

We all know that reading can be relaxing, but did you know it can actually make you happier? Research has uncovered just how powerful reading can be for our well-being [1]. When we dive into a good story, our minds get a break from everyday worries. But the benefits go even deeper than that. People who read regularly report higher levels of life satisfaction and happiness [2]. Why? Because reading helps us make sense of our thoughts and feelings, just like talking to a friend. When we see characters face challenges, solve problems, or even just enjoy a sunny day, we feel connected—and a little less alone.

How Reading Lifts Our Spirits

Stress Melts Away: Just six minutes of reading can lower stress levels by up to 68% [3]. That’s faster than listening to music or going for a walk.
Empathy Grows: When you read a book, you’re magically transported into the protagonist's shoes. You experience the story from their point of view, which can help make you more empathetic towards them and eventually other people in real life.
Hope Increases: Stories about overcoming obstacles or achieving dreams inspire us to think positively about our own lives.

Have you heard of our Storyteller's range of products? They help equip children with the words they'll encounter in reading. If they already know these words by the time they encounter them on a page, their reading experience will be that much more enjoyable.

Tips to Make Reading a Happy Habit

Want to boost your happiness through reading? Here are some fun ways to get started:

Read What You Love: Whether it’s comics, mysteries, or fantasy, choose books with topics that excite you. Help your kids discover what they enjoy reading too by exploring different types of books together.
Make It Social: Join a book club or swap recommendations with friends. It can even be a family affair - why not read a book together after dinner instead of watching a movie? You could even get your children to write their own stories inspired by what they’ve read and recite them aloud.
Create a Comfortable Spot: Set up a comfy reading nook with a fluffy blanket and good lighting.
Share the Joy: Read aloud with your kids or partner—stories are even better when shared!

Final thoughts

Reading isn’t just fun—it’s a proven way to boost your mood, reduce stress, and connect with the world. So next time you need a pick-me-up, grab a book and let happiness trickle in, one page at a time.

happiness,mental health,reading,well being,

References

[1] https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/5a7c18d540f0b61a825d66e9/reading_for

_pleasure.pdf

[2] https://www.seriousreaders.com/blog/people-who-read-are-happier?srsltid=AfmBOorSxhEiNW4g4Tkv56DyId0iWrA-H1OlUTh7vA4uk3aeQ9HlyMDy

[3] https://www.anxietycentre.com/research/reading-reduces-stress-by-68-percent/

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