A good read is like a workout for the brain. According to Haskins Laboratories President and Director of Research Ken Pugh, Ph.D., reading stimulates “parts of the brain that have evolved for other functions—such as vision, language, and associative learning.” Reading compels the brain to both think and concentrate, which can be very challenging.
There are numerous advantages to daily reading—it benefits the mind, body and soul. And according to Fast Company®, it can expand employees’ thinking skills and keep them informed about the world and their industry. Learn more about how daily reading can benefit your employees, plus ways to encourage and reward them with book-themed gifts.
Promote these benefits of reading
Stress reduction
According to Benefits Canada, 58 percent of Canadian workers are stressed every day. Chances are, many of them need or want help managing it. Simply taking time to read can do wonders to mitigate stress. Not only is it a distraction from the daily grind, it can lower your heart rate, reduce tension and promote relaxation. Encourage daily reading by compiling a list of must-reads. Ask staffers for their contributions and distribute the list in branded book totes. Enter those who contributed their top picks into a prize draw to win a favourite book and an imprinted magnetic bookmark.
Improved memory and brain health
Reading requires memorization. Every memory the brain creates forms new synapses, essentially strengthening the brain and short-term memory. Keeping the brain strong and healthy not only aids in short-term memory recall, it can slow—and possibly even prevent— the onset of degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Get staff motivated and excited to read by starting a book club. Choose themes and books that resonate with your readers. Consider inviting employees and clients to share in the fun. Provide participants with a gift for joining. Consider a logo’d canvas bag with a pack of adhesive flags and a mechanical pencil for note taking.
Better health
Did you know reading not only improves your mental health, but it can improve your physical health, too? In fact, a great read can draw you in so much that you’ll be willing to stay on that exercise machine longer just to keep reading. It’s also hard to snack when a good read occupies your hands. Provide employees with a logo’d tablet case to help keep their e-reader free from scratches during their commute or while travelling.
The advantages of reading are clear. Share the benefits of a daily read with your employees. Encourage them to build their brain and improve their health by tossing in some book-themed gifts as a reward for taking time to read.