When was the last time you read a book or an important magazine article? Does your daily reading habit revolve around Weibo, WeChat updates, or today's headlines from major news outlets?

If you haven't gotten into the habit of reading regularly, you are bound to miss out on a lot. In fact, having a regular reading habit has many benefits.

1. Mental stimulation (brain exercise)

Research shows that constant mental stimulation can slow down (and possibly even prevent) Alzheimer's and dementia because keeping your brain active and engaged keeps it from losing motivation. Like any other muscle in the body, the brain needs exercise to keep it strong and healthy.

2. Decompression

No matter how stressed you are at work, in your relationships, or with the myriad of other problems you face in your daily life when you lose yourself in a story, those stresses and worries will all disappear.

A great novel can take one into a whole new realm, while a riveting essay will distract you from the moment you become engrossed in the book, allowing the tension to melt away and allowing your mind and body to relax.

3. Increase knowledge

Everything you read is filled with new information, and you never know when it might come in handy. The more knowledge you have, the better equipped you are to tackle any challenge you face.

Also, it is crucial: If one day you find yourself in a very bad situation, remember that although you may lose everything, your job, your possessions, your money, even your health. But the knowledge in the head can never be taken away.

4. Improve focus

When you're reading a book, all your attention is on the story -- the rest of the world disappears, and you can immerse yourself in every detail that interests you. Try to keep reading for 15-20 minutes before work (like on your way to work, if you take public transport) and you will be surprised how much more focused you will be once you get to the office.

Here are some more book recommendations.

1. "A Brief History of Mankind"

This is a historical book that has burst into the international bestseller list in recent years. This book gives you a whole new perspective on human history.

It uses popular language and a fresh perspective to examine individual happiness in the process of human development, and never misses the most critical and interesting part of history.

2. "Fifteen Years of Wanli"

"Fifteen Years of Wanli" is a classic that changed the way Chinese people read, and it is the famous work of Mr Huang Renyu, a Chinese-American historian. Secretary Gao Yuliang strongly recommended it in the name of the people.

3. The Moon and Sixpence

Charles, the banker, is middle-aged and successful in his career. In order to pursue his secret dream of painting, he suddenly abandons his wife, son, and home. He is well aware that every identity of a person is a kind of self-abduction, and the only loss is the way to freedom.

The prototype of this book is the French artist Gauguin, and many legendary details have been added. The artists in the book have some choices that ordinary people want to do but dare not so that they can get some virtual satisfaction. The moon represents lofty ideals, and sixpence represents reality.