Think back to the last time you immersed yourself in a good book. Now, think back to the last time you did this outdoors, amongst the soft rustlings of nature and the warmth of natural light. If it’s been a while or you’ve yet to try, it’s high time to change that. Combining the therapeutic joys of reading with the calming influence of nature can result in a fulfilling pastime that not only soothes your senses but also strengthens your cognitive abilities. Today, let’s explore the concept of creating peaceful reading nooks outdoors.
You may wonder, what makes reading in natural settings standout?
Research underscores the numerous benefits of reading outdoors, augmenting the pleasure with tangible cognitive and mental health benefits. According to an article at Portal Outdoors, exposure to natural light significantly improves mood and concentration. Besides, the serenity of being outdoors helps reduce stress and anxiety. Even the presence of plants, they suggest, could improve your memory and cognitive function.
Dive deeper and you’ll find even more convincing evidence. For instance, one study found that compared to reading indoors, soaking up natural light while flipping through pages improves focus. The broader exposure to words can also help expand your vocabulary. In short, being in nature’s lap, engrossed in a riveting tale is not just a delightful escape but also a surefire way to boost your brain health.
In essence, transforming your usual reading space to one outdoors not only provides a refreshing change of scenery but also enhances your cognitive abilities.
But, how do you go about creating this idyllic outdoor reading nook and what should you bring for a seamless and comfortable reading session?
Creating an outdoor reading nook doesn’t necessitate grand designs. Sometimes, it’s as simple as draping a comfy hammock in your backyard or putting a bench in a quiet corner. Add a small side table to hold your essentials like a coffee mug or perhaps a bird feeder to invite some avian company. If you live in an apartment, your balcony can be a perfect haven too. Just add a comfort chair or a stack of cushions and voila – your skyline reading spot is ready. For those who don’t have access to private outdoor spaces, local parks and quiet riversides can make for perfect substitutes. Look for a shaded spot under a tree, unfurl a picnic blanket, and settle down with your favorite book.
And, when it comes to ‘what to pack’ for your outdoor reading session, some essentials can significantly improve your experience. According to a guide on Teresa Caruso’s blog, here are some items you may want to consider:
- A Kindle for ease of carrying multiple books.
- Blue Light Glasses for eye care during digital reading.
- Headphones for enjoying audiobooks or some music while reading.
- A pillow stand for hands-free and comfortable reading.
With these essentials, your reading experience can transform from a simple pastime to a peaceful retreat. As you immerseed yourself in the pages of a book under the open sky, these essentials work in the background to ensure your comfort and enjoyment.
In a nutshell, going outdoors to read provides not just a refreshing change of scenery, but also offers some incredibly beneficial cognitive boosts. From improved mood, concentration and cognition to reduced stress and a greater vocabulary range, the benefits are as compelling as they are numerous. So whether you put up a hammock in your backyard, find a quiet bench at a local park, or just spread a blanket under a shady tree, find your perfect spot to read amongst the calming rustle of leaves and the warmth of the sun. Pack a few essentials that cater to your comfort and convenience and embark on this enriching journey of outdoor reading. Next time you feel the itch for a good story, a captivating character, or an academic read, step outside to create your own refuge among the whispers of nature and the words of the world.
