The Healing Power of Reading Fiction: How Literature Supports Health and Well-being

Reading Fiction for Health and Well-being: More Than Just Entertainment

In a world filled with self-help books and medical guides, the mention of fiction as a source of health and well-being might come as a surprise to some. However, research studies and academic experts support the idea that reading fiction, including genres like true crime fiction, can have numerous benefits for one’s overall health and well-being.

The University of Minnesota-­Twin Cities offers a course titled “Healing Words: Reading, Literature and Wellbeing” through the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality and Healing. Developed by Asa Olson, this course explores the cognitive effects of reading, how literature has been used for healing throughout history, and how individuals can use literature for their own well-being.

According to Olson, reading fiction has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and blood pressure, aid in sleep readiness, prevent cognitive decline, and even provide relaxation comparable to meditation. It can also help individuals learn, understand, process emotions, find purpose and hope, and build empathy.

Rosemary Marshall, an academic researcher, highlights how reading fiction can lead to greater understanding and empathy for different situations, as it allows readers to metaphorically walk in the characters’ shoes. Additionally, reading fiction can help individuals connect with others in their communities, as well as with characters and authors across time and space.

The St. Paul Public Library provides resources like the “Book Club in a Bag” to support book clubs and encourage community engagement through reading. The St. Anthony Park Library’s adult book club, for example, selects books like the historical fiction work “West with Giraffes” by Lynda Rutledge.

Popular fiction books checked out of the library in 2023 include titles like “Demon Copperhead” by Barbara Kingsolver and “I Have Some Questions for You” by Rebecca Makkai. Even crime fiction, often seen as mere entertainment, can offer readers benefits like catharsis, distraction, and closure.

Whether in print, eBook, or audio book format, the positive effects of reading fiction remain consistent. Stevie Shively, a teacher of the “Healing Words” course, encourages her students to explore all formats for a well-rounded reading experience.

Overall, the idea that reading fiction can contribute to one’s health and well-being is gaining recognition, with more individuals turning to literature as a form of self-care and personal growth. So, the next time you pick up a novel, remember that you’re not just indulging in a story – you’re also investing in your own well-being.