Can you bench press a novel? Reading isn't typically linked to health and fitness, but your favorite paperback might just be the underrated superfood your brain's been craving.

According to studies like one conducted by Yale University's School of Public Health, delving into books could potentially cut mortality rates by 20%. That's right – your penchant for murder mysteries or sci-fi sagas might be the secret to outliving your friends. Interestingly, those who favor books seem to cash in more health benefits than magazine and newspaper nibblers.

Fiction, in particular, could rake in the top health rewards, helping your brain clock extra miles. This genre might just add a couple of extra years on Earth, intriguing findings suggest. Reading for only half an hour daily can trigger this life-extending effect, irrespective of disparities like wealth, education, and health conditions. The thrilling plots and relatable characters aren't just for entertainment; they kick your imagination into gear and keep your brain bustling.

Beyond adding candles to your birthday cake, reading might be your best bet against cognitive decline. As an arsenal of words and worlds fly off the pages, you're unknowingly slowing down rates of memory loss and sharpening your cognitive abilities. This cognitive resilience, a formidable weapon against brain decline and damage, accumulates as you delve more into books.

Not surprisingly, getting lost in fictional planets or solving complex whodunits can be therapeutic, offering a much-needed reprieve from life's daily stressors. According to 2022's PLoS One review of multiple studies, fictional escapades can not only buffer mood and emotions but also have a profound positive impact on long-term memory and cognitive consolidation.

But the benefits of reading don't stop here. It can be a game-changer for your nighttime routine, potentially outshining your trusted silk eye mask or white noise machine. A 2021 study revealed that participants who read before bed reported better sleep than their counterparts deprived of bedtime stories.

Furthermore, reading – especially not on electronic devices emitting sleep-disrupting blue light – can enhance health literacy. According to the CDC, you're better equipped to prevent health problems and make informed decisions revolving around health when you're a regular reader.

And if you're worried about the cost of these wellness gurus (read: books), most libraries will let you borrow them for free. Still not sure about this reading routine upgrade? Perhaps the potential to boost your intelligence, improve your social snooze skills, or build resilience against insomnia might convince you. And guess what? It's never too late to turn those pages!

To initiate your new reading regimen, consider setting modest goals. Start with a few pages daily or delve into short stories and magazines. Make reading part of your daily routine, and remember - it's okay to unplug from the radiant glare of your electronic devices. Not sure what to read? Don't worry; simply ask for recommendations or browse through book reviews on sites like Goodreads. So grab that book, flaunt your reading glasses, and let the power of stories transform your health and wellness one page at a time.