When you think of muscles, more than likely the biceps or chest will come to mind. After all, those are the beach muscles . . . they are what everyone notices. However, there’s another muscle who often gets forgotten within the pursuit of looking good in a physical nature . . . the brain. Ironically, this is the muscle we should be most concerned with. Biceps and the chest muscles will surely deplete as we age, no matter how hard one tries to maintain them. The brain, however, will relish in continuing strenuous activity long into our golden years. One way to keep your brain young and vivacious is to delve into the world of speed reading.
In essence, speed reading is simply reading what’s written at a much faster rate, than what would be perceived as a normal pace. On average, most people read at a rate of approximately 200 words per minute. Imagine reaching 1000 words per minute. This is surely in the reach of any individual who takes the time to learn speed reading techniques. Sounds simple enough, but what’s the benefit of moving through text at a faster pace? Well, that’s where that all important, yet often forgotten muscle, the brain comes into play.
Overall, there are some key benefits to learning and implementing speed reading techniques.
- Logical sequencing improves
When speed reading, the brain becomes more apt at grouping and sorting information. By doing so, it’s forced to correlate material into meaningful chunks of information, at a quicker pace.
- Improved focusing ability
When reading for luxury, it’s often easy to lose focus on surrounding elements (noise, kids, cellphone, etc.) However, speed reading forces you to remain true to the proper technique of grouping and sequencing; which in turn, requires the reader to remain laser-focused.
- Increased memory capacity
Just as doing curls will allow your bicep muscles to grow (increasing capacity), speed reading is a workout for the brain, which in turn increases its capacity for memorization; this is the brain’s version of getting stronger and bigger. It’s mental capacity is growing as you challenge it with new exercises, such as speed reading.
- High sense of accomplishment
Learning and utilizing anything new is a huge confidence booster. Just as learning and using a new foreign language for the first time properly feels good, training your mind to handle the concept of speed reading will yield a sense of accomplishment, as well. Imagine having the confidence to tackle any text that’s put in front you and knowing that not only will you comprehend it; but that you’ll be able to consume the text at a much faster rate than most people is inspiring.
No matter one’s reasoning for taking up speed reading, the benefits your brain will incur are immeasurable. You’ll be able to read more material faster and integrate into your personal life in numerous ways. For more information on speed reading, please visit us at eyeQ or send us your thoughts. We’d love to hear from you. Happy reading!
