Cultivating a reading ritual.
Since childhood, books have fed my irrepressible hunger for truth, immersion, and meaning. I read ferociously, so much so that Ryan sometimes jokes I would trade him in before I traded my Kindle in…
I have recently heard from many friends, in different conversations, that they are trying to bring books back into their lives - they miss reading. With so many competing stimuli from all corners of our lives, it's not surprising that people don't read as much as they might like. Feeling too busy, distracted, unfocused, or tired is common and understandable. However, despite this, I suggest that it's possible to build a reading ritual into our lives and reclaim some everyday enjoyment as we do so.
Here are my tips to rekindle a regular reading ritual in your life:
1. Find your prime reading time.
It might be over coffee in the morning before work, a twenty-minute commute, a lunch break, or when you first get home from work as a way to unwind, after dinner, dishes, & kids are done, or before bed. When that time arrives, collect your book and stick your phone on top of the fridge (so you can't pick that darn thing up!) Get comfortable and start reading.
2. Embrace the wandering mind.
When we have neglected reading for some time, we might find our minds wandering and getting distracted. Rather than sitting with this initial restlessness, we tend to reach for the nearest stimuli. Have you ever nestled into bed with a book, only to read one paragraph before reaching for your phone to scroll through Instagram?
Instead of escaping this 'boredom,' we should purposely embrace it to retrain our brains and prepare them for reading. Follow the next step to embrace this.
3. Set a timer.
Set a timer for 15-20 minutes, and just read - nothing else! You will be amazed at how much reading can happen in a short, uninterrupted block and how enjoyable it is to be completely absorbed in one activity.
4. Pass on books that don't capture you.
It's ok to abandon a book you don't enjoy – don't let a bad book block your ritual.
I really love paperback books, but find a Kindle offers me many more opportunities to read. I can read in bed without disturbing baby Fergus or Ryan; it is lightweight, so I take it everywhere. I can read multiple books simultaneously, hold it one-handed while nap-trapped, and download a new book whenever needed.
5. Consider a Kindle.
Reading immediately after meditation is a perfect way to absorb new knowledge & wisdom & interestingly meditation seems to spark a curiosity and hunger for knowledge and wisdom! Many students wonder where they should begin in broadening their understanding of their practice, themselves and the Vedic worldview. If you are looking for some reading inspiration to enhance your practice or your own journey of self-discovery, check out my recommended reading list.
6. Use reading to enhance your meditation.
Seek out people in your life who you admire and resonate with and ask them for their favourite book recommendations. You can also start by choosing one of the books that likely sits unread on your own bookshelf!