Reading for Resilience: The Healing Power of Books
During what I now refer to as the Dark Times (DT) - the intense double-caring-in-a-pandemic period – I had all but stopped reading. A late bloomer to the joys of reading, it wasn't until I was a young adult that I truly understood the magic of books. As a child, there was a favorite poetry anthology, and flipping through art and history books was always fun, but it wasn’t until I was out of high school that I found my footing on the printed page.
When I unexpectedly became a primary care partner to both of my parents as the pandemic was kicking into high gear (in an environment that seemed to willfully neglect older adults), reading for myself was all but abandoned. Now there were plenty of reading opportunities as I was invariably waiting for the next care-related appointment, but I lacked the mental energy. While our parents were still living at home and both enduring an endless string of emergencies, there was too much to do, too little help, and we were all just treading some deep waters.
I missed reading, the escapism, the stimulation, the way my breath seemed to slow down or quicken with the plot. But I’d lost all of that during the DT. My eyes would not read anything other than that which related to helping our parents. I tried. Sentences would have to be re-read several times, and getting through a single page was a disjointed, lengthy endeavor. It was too frustrating and exhausting so I mostly gave up. I’d read a little here and there but focused on materials that could help us navigate the more pressing topics: dementia, brain trauma, falls prevention, physical therapy, medication interactions and side-effects, nutrition, insurance, wound care, end-of-life planning, how best to liquidate assets to pay for medical bills, how to keep their small business afloat, and the minutiae of estate and elder law. All of this while trying to maintain my career.
As overwhelm sank into breakdown, I decided enough was enough. For reasons I may never grasp, I devised a ridiculously simple morning ritual: read one short poem each morning. It was Mary Oliver’s A Thousand Mornings that facilitated my first tentative steps back from burnout’s abyss. This slim collection is elegant, evocative, and accessible. That’s the genius of Oliver. Her writing softly wraps expansive and inclusive ideas about religion, philosophy, environmentalism, and cultural critique with the simplest measures. It didn’t happen overnight, but the more I read, the more I started to feel like myself. Word by word, phrase by phrase, a little buoyancy crept in.
Reading, it turns out, is good for you.
Stress Relief and Relaxation
Reading has been scientifically proven to reduce stress. A University of Sussex study found that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%. Immersing yourself in a book can help your mind escape the worries and pressures of everyday life. It’s akin to a mental vacation, providing a much-needed break for family care partners constantly on the go. When you read, your brain enters a state similar to meditation, slowing down your heart rate and easing muscle tension.
Cognitive Stimulation and Mental Health
Engaging in reading keeps your brain active and stimulated, which can improve brain function and slow down cognitive decline as you age. For care partners, who often juggle multiple responsibilities, keeping the brain sharp is crucial. Additionally, reading has been linked to a decrease in symptoms of depression and anxiety. The escapism offered by books can provide a temporary respite from the pressures of caring for another, helping to improve overall mental health.
Empathy and Emotional Intelligence
Reading fiction, in particular, has been shown to increase empathy and improve social perception. By delving into the lives and emotions of characters, readers can develop a deeper understanding of human experiences and emotions. For care partners, enhanced empathy can translate into better care, as understanding and patience are paramount when dealing with loved ones who may be suffering or in distress.
According to some experts, you may want to be mindful of the content you choose to read. Non-fiction books with violent themes can be stressful and may not provide the same benefits as lighter or more uplifting genres. I can attest to this in my own experience. Exposure to graphic and violent content can increase anxiety and stress, which is counterproductive for care partners seeking solace and relaxation through reading.
Reading as a Tool for Family Care Partner Wellness
Reducing Caregiver Burnout
Burnout is a significant issue, characterized by physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Reading can serve as an effective tool to combat burnout. By carving out even a few minutes a day to read, family caregivers can experience a sense of escapism and rejuvenation. This small act of self-care can significantly reduce feelings of overwhelm and help restore a sense of balance.
Creating Personal Time and Space
Finding time for oneself can be challenging for family care partners. However, prioritizing personal time is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Establishing a routine with dedicated reading time can help care partners create a personal sanctuary. This could be as simple as setting aside 15 minutes before bed or during a quiet moment. Having this time can provide a sense of normalcy and routine, which is often missing in the chaotic life of a care partner.
Tips for Family Care Partners to Incorporate Reading into Their Routine
Start Small: Begin with short stories, poems, or articles. Books like Mary Oliver’s A Thousand Mornings are perfect because they are accessible and don’t require a significant time commitment. A single passage or poem is sufficient.
Set a Schedule: Dedicate a specific time each day for reading. It could be during morning tea, a lunch break, or before bed. Consistency helps in making reading a habit.
Create a Reading Nook: Designate a comfortable spot in your home for reading. Make it inviting with good lighting, a cozy chair or blanket, and minimal distractions.
Join a Book Club: Virtual or in-person book clubs can provide a sense of community and accountability. Sharing insights and discussing books with others can enrich the reading experience.
Use Audiobooks: For those who find it hard to sit down and read, audiobooks can be a great alternative. They can be enjoyed while doing household chores, driving, or other activities. I always have one book I’m listening to during my morning walks, and at least one book where I have to turn a page.
Carry a Book: Always have a book or an e-reader with you. This way, you can take advantage of spare moments, such as waiting in line or during appointments.
Use your Library Card to Borrow Books Online: Always late to the party (sigh), I only recently discovered that I could link my library card to CloudLibrary. Now I have an endless stream of eBooks and audiobooks in the palm of my hand.
Conclusion
Reading is more than just a pastime; it's a powerful tool that offers numerous health benefits, particularly for family care partners. By integrating reading into your daily routine, you can reduce stress, enhance cognitive function, and develop greater empathy. Most importantly, reading provides a much-needed escape – a way to reclaim some personal time amidst the demands of caregiving. So, find that book you've been wanting to read and allow yourself the luxury of getting lost in its pages.
BookRiot has a great primer on the various digital library lending platforms.
Project Gutenberg is one of my favorite resources for classics and obscure offerings you never knew you would enjoy. 100% free, no registration or app required.
What’s your favorite reading routine? Comment below or send us an email, we read every reply.