I know how it feels to be in a reading slump. Maybe I’m pressed for time or maybe it’s my English degree abusing me with T.S Eliot or Wordsworth. Realizing that I can romanticize the reading experience has helped me associate reading as something exciting. I think it’s a wonderful way to reframe tasks that could seem monotonous, boring or difficult to do. So here are 5 simple tips to romanticise reading…and of course, actually read!
1. A Warm Drink
Not only is there something special about the ritual of finding your favourite mug, hearing that kettle start up and seeing the steam rising from your cup but studies have shown that a warm beverage quite literally has the same effect as being hugged (from the inside). It’s relaxing, it’s calming and it can even help you focus. I’ve found that sipping a hot cuppa while reading puts me in a sweet rhythm . I’m eased enough to take in new knowledge or open up to new worlds and it feels like life has slowed down for that exact moment.
2. Love Your Reading Room
This totally deserves it’s own blog. While reading is a portable activity, I truly believe that the space you create for reading is important. For example, eliminating distractions. Distractions does not have to mean noise. In fact, for many people distractions can be the overwhelming silence that make all your thoughts louder. My distractions vary on my moods. When I’m particularly struggling to read, I’ve found that messy environments distract me. If I’m reading a difficult novel, I need the noise of a coffee shop or public space to help quiet my distracting thoughts. But whenever I read, I make sure that I am intentional about my reading space. In winter, I love when the sun is pouring into my room and I’m snuggled in a neat space. What would connect you to your reading space? Is it lighting candles? Switching on your fairy lights? Being surrounded with books? Give it a think!
3. Follow with an Audio Book
I know some bookworms out there will beseech me for this, but hear me out! Audiobooks are a great way to kickstart a novel that you wouldn’t normally read, especially if you’re diligent with following along with the text. There are great audiobooks out there! Ones where the author themselves are narrators or ones that accompany atmospheric music. One of my best audiobooks experiences was reading The Hobbit along with an audiobook. I loved it so much that I’m even willing to brave The Lord of the Rings commando!
If you want to give this a try, here are apparently the best audiobooks of all time!
4. Dramatize what you’re reading!
Ever heard that saying “All the world is a stage?” If you’re like me and are a sucker for dressing up or trying new recipes, why not merge these passions with reading? There’s nothing more immersing than making meals that correspond with the book you’re reading. If you’re reading a book set in Nigeria, why not whip up some jollof rice? Or how about a book set in Japan and ordering some gyoza! Maybe dressing in your favourite cottage dress next to some hand-picked flowers while reading pastoral classics? This can really help connect you with your characters and personalize your reading experience (plus, its fun!)
5. Read with the Seasons
This sounds ridiculously cheesy but the good old seasonal party makes me want to skip! There are books that are just perfect for the season. According to my taste, cosy mysteries, dark thrillers or children’s stories hit all the right spots in winter! In the summer, I’m ready to fall into a gripping romance or a ground-breaking work of fiction (I can step out my comfort zone). Maybe it’s the inverse for you? Maybe there’s something about winter that makes you want to read banned books. Hey, whatever tickles your belly-button!
All in all…
It’s about intention. Be aware of what surrounds you and determine whether it will nourish or take away from your reading experience. Be creative and try not think of reading as an activity done in isolation of all others. It can seep into so many things you enjoy or value in your lifestyle. Think what works for you. And remember, the best part of romanticizing something is that it looks different for everybody! It turns the ordinary into something ceremonious and dreamy… That’s simply what need in this short life.
Let me know how these 5 simple tips to romanticise reading worked for you!
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