Reading X Mental Health Monday

If you're in the UK and have a library card you can now download an app called Libby which has all the books and magazines that your local library offers which is pretty cool because it's on your phone, or other technology that you can have apps on for free; you can borrow up-to 20 at time for around 3 weeks not that I've utilised that I prefer reading one at once. If you don't have a library card they're super easy to get just go into a local library and ask for one and that's pretty much it after a few details you're ready to borrow no waiting in the post, they hand it to you straight away. I like the idea of traditional books but the process of having it on your phone is very convenient for defining words by just holding on the word also returning the books no special trip just a click to return and you're ready to borrow/read more all in less than 30 seconds. It's perfect for a busy lifestyle or those that struggle with mental health problems.

 There's some great benefits about reading, so we all know you get to learn new words, your spelling and grammar will improve meaning you become more intellectual but did you know reading fiction actually improves your creativity because it opens up that side of the brain creating new neural pathways. Reading helps your mental health too because if you read at night it helps you to sleep better meaning you're less grumpy in the morning and therefore you'll be in a better mindset to deal with life's challenges plus reading distracts you for a while - you can get lost in the words rather than lost in your problems.  

Here's what I've been reading:

1) The Art of Healing (Magazine)

2) The Complete Guide To Overcoming Depression, Low Mood And Other Related Problems - This ones a challenging read with over 3,500 pages it's like 6 books in one but the info is a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approach well worth a read 

3) When The Lights Go Out by Carys Bray - A fiction book based on a true story

I've not had the Libby app that long so my reading list is fairly short but there's loads of options whether its fiction or non fiction you like to read. Recently I've been challenged to read a fiction book because all  consume is non-fiction, it's a way different type of reading and not something I find easy as i'm not used to it but i'm determined to utilise creating new neural pathways to help with my creativity. I might see if they have any Roald Dahl books on there because I used to love them as a kid. 

When was the last time you read a book or magazine? 

Till next time,

Stevie x