In a neuroscience study conducted by The Queen’s Reading Room, early findings suggest that immersing oneself in the pages of a book can substantially benefit mental health and wellbeing. The comprehensive research, spearheaded by a team of neuroscientists, used a combination of brain scans, skin conductance tests, and a nationally representative study to delve into the effects of reading on the human brain.

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The Queen’s Reading Room launched as an online book club on Instagram in January 2021 with reading recommendations from Her Majesty Queen Camilla, then Duchess of Cornwall, before becoming a charity in February 2023. It works to celebrate and promote the power and benefits of reading and is on a mission to help more people find and connect with books which enrich their lives.

“At The Queen’s Reading Room, we’re fascinated by the connection between reading and wellbeing and have undertaken a pioneering new neuroscience research study to understand what happens in the brain when we read a book,” the organisation stated, shedding light on the inspiration behind this groundbreaking study.

The science behind the page: key findings

Using an EEG or a brain scanner, scientists measured electrical activity in the brain, translating these bio signals as wavelengths. This was then compared to skin conductance levels using medical grade smartwatch.

The research analysed over 72 million data points, painting a detailed picture of our emotional and physiological responses to reading. One of the standout findings from the study reveals that as little as five minutes of reading can reduce stress by nearly 20%. Additionally, the act of reading was shown to boost concentration and focus by up to 11%. With chronic stress, it can also help break the cycle of rumination.

Another significant discovery was the timing of reading activities. Engaging with a book earlier in the day was linked to heightened feelings of social connection and an increased readiness to face daily challenges. Moreover, diving into a work of fiction was found to markedly decrease feelings of loneliness—a vital insight, given the established correlation between social isolation and a higher risk of various dementias.

Reading as a pathway to mental health and social connection

“The results have proven that there is an important link between reading fiction and increased mental health, brain health and social connectedness. Not only is reading a magical, joyous experience, it turns out that it’s also good for our health!” the researchers concluded.

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This study highlights the potential of reading as a simple yet effective tool for enhancing mental health, brain function, and social wellbeing.