Between the Lines

"In the quiet world of a book or the warmth of a circle, find reflection, connection and the space to imagine what’s next."

- Mathilde Barbier, dare to be the change

As a child, some of my happiest moments were spent in bed, propped up by pillows, a good book in my hands.  I can still remember the joy of holding the book, opening it and turning that first page, slipping into the story, losing all track of time, immersed in the journey alongside my heroes. The disappointment when I had to put the book down, the eagerness to return to it and finally that bittersweet feeling when I reached “The End”.

Reading a “paper” book is more than just absorbing words, it is a sensory experience. The connection between fingertips and paper, the gentle shhh of a turning page, the scent of ink and paper engaging not just the mind but the senses.

Today, most of our reading happens on screens and online. Quick scrolls, hyperlinks taking our attention elsewhere. And while tech has its place, the act of reading on paper is profoundly different.

Paper reading moves in a steady, linear rhythm, one sentence, one paragraph, one page at a time.… It is a rhythmical, slower process encouraging deeper thinking and inviting us to pause, reflect and truly sink in.

Online reading on the other hand, is non-linear, fast and fragmented. Scanning, skimming, jumping from one keyword to the next. Our eyes often following a F or Z pattern. Our brain must also juggle distractions in the form of hyperlinks, illustrations, animations and notifications, making it harder to slow down.

But here is why making time for a paper book matters:

• Reading stimulates the brain with problem solving and analytical thinking. It broadens our vocabulary and knowledge, improves focus and strengthens memory.

• During times of restless sleep, reading can also be a wonderful ally. Swapping screen time for a few quiet minutes with a book signals the body to wind down and encourages a more restful transition into sleep (something that a glowing phone screen can’t create)

• The cherry on the cake is: it is wonderfully calming. Studies show that just 6 minutes of silent reading can reduce stress levels by 68% (even more than sipping a cup of tea or coffee). Imagine how deeply relaxing it is to combine both! 

• • • • •

This month, I invite you to:

Step away from your screens and step inside your local library, a cozy second-hand bookshop.

• How does it feel to be there?

• Wander through the aisles, notice the variety of sections, book sizes, titles, covers.

• Which ones do you feel drawn to?

• Pick one up. How does the cover feel in your hands?

• If you’re in a library or second-hand shop, imagine the journey this book has already taken and the many hands that have turned its pages before you.

• • • • •

Take a leaf out of my book, temporarily disconnect from tech, reconnect to the wonders of paper book reading and dare to be the change you want to see in your organisation, family, community and life!

Image Credit: Photo by 🇸🇮 Janko Ferlič on Unsplash