On the morning of 10th October, the team at The Key Theatre in Peterborough, alongside our colleagues across Landmark Theatres, paused to participate in the National Literacy Trust’s Take 10 to Read campaign. At 10am, we all took 10 minutes to immerse ourselves in reading, embracing the opportunity to reflect on how reading can boost mental wellbeing.
This initiative, perfectly aligned with World Mental Health Day, was a simple yet powerful reminder of how beneficial reading can be for mental health. Whether it’s escaping into a gripping novel, learning something new, or simply enjoying the quiet that comes with focusing on the written word, reading offers a unique way to relax and rejuvenate the mind. It’s a reminder that, in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, taking even just 10 minutes to pause and read can be an act of self-care.
Reading for pleasure is not just a personal retreat; it has a ripple effect on the people around us, especially the children in our lives. Research has shown that when children see adults reading, they are more likely to develop a love for books themselves, which in turn improves their cognitive development and academic success. By participating in Take 10 to Read, our team is not only benefiting our own mental health but also helping to foster a reading culture that supports the next generation.
The campaign’s emphasis on the mental wellbeing benefits of reading highlights just how easy it can be to make a positive impact on our mental health. We are proud to have been part of this movement and hope to inspire others to take up the challenge, not just on World Mental Health Day, but any day they need a break from the pressures of life.
Whether it’s a favourite novel, a newspaper article, or something entirely new, the next time you have a spare 10 minutes, we encourage you to #Take10ToRead. Your mind will thank you for it!