Reading Is The Perfect Hobby for Moms!
In the past few years, I have gotten back into reading, and it has been such a fun addition to my life! Finding a hobby as a mom can be challenging. We only have so much time, energy, and resources. Reading a book does not only mean physically sitting down to read a book anymore. Audio books are perfect for the car or while you are doing chores around the house. I alternate between using Audible and Libby to read with my ears while on the go.
Below are all the ways that reading has enriched my life as a mom:
I Get to Choose Topics that Are Interesting to ME! As moms, we are constantly giving to those around us whether it is our kids, family, friends, or at work. In this season of life, we are giving to others more than receiving. Reading allows me to choose genres that I like. I love a good memoir, romantic comedy, or books on historical events! It is a fun escape that fills my cup.
Reading a Book with Your Eyes or Ears is Great for the brain. According to Speechify.com, “In an interview published by Well and Good, Dr. Willeumier explains that listening to an audiobook or podcast activates many of the same areas of the brain as reading written text. While listening to books activates the part of the brain responsible for language processing and reading a book activates more areas responsible for visual processing, both activities engage semantic processing of information in the same areas of the brain. This means that audiobooks and traditional books can both expand your knowledge, improve your memory, and sharpen your mental faculties in largely the same way.”
Reading is a Way to Connect with Friends. I am friends with several other avid readers. We formed a monthly book club where we meet once a month over Zoom to talk about the book we read. This is an excuse to see one another regularly since we live all over the country and talk about what we liked about the book of the month.
I Can Devote as Much or as Little Time as I Want. If I am super busy or exhausted, I can simply stop reading whatever book I am interested in at the time. If life is a little slower, I can dive into a new series! It’s hard to find a hobby with so much flexibility.
Modeling Being a Life Long Learner! When your children see you reading, they are more likely to read as they grow up.
My Favorite Reads of the Summer: I recently read A Court of Thorns and Roses series by Sarah J Maas and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. What I love about both books is that they combine genres of fantasy fiction and romance in a really interesting way. They remind me a lot of Harry Potter, Twilight, and The Hunger Games with more of a focus on romance! This is my new favorite genre to read at the moment. I love the combination of a whole different universe with a fantastic love story.
BookTok: After I finish a book, I will head over to TikTok and see what others think about the book. It’s fun to see fan art, moments I didn’t pick up on, and quips about the book’s antagonist. There is always something that I missed and it’s a fun way to connect with other fans of that particular book!
