Let’s Talk: Healthy Reading Habits for Bookworms Like Us

Okay, book besties let’s keep it real for a second.

Have you ever told yourself, “just one more chapter,” and next thing you know it’s 2 a.m., your wine is warm, your eyes are on strike, and your alarm is set to go off in four hours? Yeah, same.

Reading is our thing it’s comfort, escape, therapy, pleasure, and sometimes straight up survival. But as much as we love it, I’ve had to learn (the hard way) that even something as magical as reading needs a little balance. Because honestly I don’t always do what’s “right,” but I am trying to do what’s better for me and maybe what might be better for you, too.

So let’s get into some healthy reading habits not the “read more books” kind. The “read in a way that doesn’t drain you” kind.

1. You Don’t Gotta Devour the Whole Shelf in One Sitting

Trust me, I know that TBR pile is giving leaning tower of Pisa, but real talk you don’t have to read all the books right now. I’ve had to remind myself that every book doesn’t need to be binged like a Netflix series. It’s okay to slow down, let a story breathe, and actually feel what the characters are going through. The books will be there when you’re ready.

2. Make Time, Don’t Guilt Yourself

Listen, life be lifing. Some weeks I’m deep in five books at once, other weeks I’m lucky if I can finish a paragraph. And that’s okay. Reading is supposed to be a joy, not another to do list item. When you do get time to read, claim it. Protect it and make it sacred. But never beat yourself up for when it just doesn’t happen.

3. Watch Out for Genre Burnout

I’ve definitely been guilty of reading back to back urban romances or thrillers until I feel numb. When that happens, I know it’s time to switch it up. Revisit an old favorite, try a new genre, or even pick up a novella just to reset. Sometimes your reading spirit just needs a little refresh.

4. Get Out the House, Book in Hand

As much as I love being curled up on the couch, sometimes the best reading energy is outside your own four walls. Wander through a bookstore. Chill at a local café. Walk through the library and touch spines (gently, lol). Just being around books and readers can reignite your vibe.

5. It’s Okay to Pause Even If the Book is Good

This one took me a while to accept. I’d feel guilty for putting a book down even when my brain was clearly tired. But now if I’m not mentally there, I pause. Stretch. Drink some water. Close my eyes. And when I come back, I’m more present for the story and that makes the experience even richer.

6. Don’t Let Reading Wreck Your Body

Reading for hours can feel like a whole spiritual experience until your back starts talking trash and your neck locks up. Been there. Set a timer and do a couple stretches. Sit on the floor for a chapter. Move your body a little so you can read a lot without regretting it later.

7. Reading Can Be Social Too (If You Want)

I’m a solo reader by nature, but some of my favorite reading moments come from sharing quotes, laughing about a plot twist with a friend, or spilling my thoughts in a book club. If you’re craving connection, let your love of books lead the way. You never know who else is out there swooning over the same book bae as you.

Final Thought

There’s no one way to be a reader. But if your reading starts to feel like pressure instead of peace? It’s okay to check in with yourself. You deserve to enjoy every page without guilt, stress, or a stiff neck.

So, tell me what’s your go to reading habit that helps you feel your best?