Okay, so obviously you're on my blog because you like books.

Well, I hope so anyway.

But, for people that accidentally came across my blog, who don't really like reading, or for anyone who has ever read a book, I am going to tell you all about the benefits of reading.

Firstly, 
I want to speak of how reading has shaped my life. If you have seen my post about a children's book that makes who I am today, you will know that books can equip you with the principles, knowledge and values that make up you. Humans are greatly affected by their environment, so if they are immersed in a particular genre, or author, or specific book, they are more likely to extract the lessons they may have learnt from what they have read...and use it in everyday situations.

This is why I want to make it my job to inspire people, particularly teenagers like myself, to read often. In my opinion, there is nothing better than sitting in bed and reading on a cold winter's day. Or lying curled up on the couch as you devour a book. For me, that peaceful silence when you are fully engrossed in the world is one of the most serene things I will ever experience.

I know that reading may seem like an isolating task, that is boring and tiresome, but believe me, it is possible to be a bookworm AND be a social butterfly. Bookworms get a bad reputation for being quiet, antisocial people, but really that is hardly the case. That stereotype, should not be the reason why teens refrain from reading.

Here's Why Reading Could Save Your Life

• Reduces Stress

No matter what happens during the day, losing yourself in a well-written story or article can be enough to help distract you and let the tension release as you unwind

• Stimulates Your Mind

Books have a habit of appearing in our lives at the right moments, and have the ability to turn your world upside-down (usually for the good). Books are one of the most important leisure activities, in my opinion, for a young child, and they can be stories that you will remember for the rest of your life, and they really do play a part in your decision-making as you evolve into the person you are today and in the future. Children's books convey important messages and values that kids do actually remember and use as they grow up.

Do you still remember that book that changed your life forever?
Do you still remember your first storybook?
Do you still remember that book your parents would read to you at night?

I do. It was called I Dreamed I Was A Ballerina by the extraordinary dancer, Anna Pavlova.

This book became my favourite book, and has always been at the back of my mind whenever I dance. Even though I don't see myself being the next Anna Pavlova, reading about her memories in this storybook all those years ago, made me appreciate dance on a different level than most, from the beginning. The pictures of the dancers in this story pushed me to aim for pointe...and that inspiration helped me succeed and get my first pair of pointe shoes. This book gave me the motivation to continue to dance for a long time (I've been dancing for 10 years and counting!).