Turn a new leaf

Start a different health chapter this year by losing yourself in more books. Research for The Reading Agency has found that reading for pleasure can reduce the symptoms of depression and improve wellbeing, as well as increase empathy and improve relationships. Other studies reveal that the hobby can be better for reducing stress levels than listening to music or sitting down with a cup of tea. And if you want to help keep your brain sharp, there is some evidence that the mental stimulation from regular book reading may help slow cognitive decline and decrease the risk of dementia.