Sir Godfrey Gregg

We talk a lot about physical self-care—eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep. But mental self-care is equally important, and reading is one of the best forms of it. Taking time during your holiday to read and engage with ideas isn’t indulgence—it’s essential maintenance for your psychological wellbeing.

Reading reduces stress more effectively than many other relaxation methods. Research shows that just six minutes of reading can reduce stress levels by up to 68%, more than listening to music, drinking tea, or going for a walk. When you’re immersed in a good book, your mind escapes daily worries and pressures, giving your stress response system a genuine break.

Unlike passive screen time, which often leaves you feeling drained and unsatisfied, reading provides what psychologists call “active rest.” Your mind engages meaningfully but without the pressure of productivity or performance. You’re being mentally active in a rejuvenating rather than depleting way. This distinction matters, especially during holidays when you need genuine restoration.

Reading before bed improves sleep quality by helping your brain transition from the day’s activities to rest mode. It’s far better than scrolling on devices, which emit blue light that disrupts sleep patterns. Establishing a reading routine before sleep during the holidays sets you up for better rest and better mental health.

Books also provide companionship and understanding, especially for young people navigating complex emotions. Finding characters who experience similar feelings, challenges, or questions helps you feel less alone. Stories validate your experiences and sometimes provide insights or coping strategies for difficulties you’re facing.

Permit yourself to read as an act of self-care during your holiday. It’s not being lazy or wasting time—it’s actively caring for your mental health, reducing stress, and providing your mind with the nourishment it needs. Just as you wouldn’t skip meals during vacation, don’t skip feeding your mind with the benefits that reading provides.