How to Read a Book in Bed Comfortably

By Geoff McKinnen Certified Sleep Coach

Last Updated On November 8th, 2024
How to Read a Book in Bed Comfortably

Key Takeaways

  • Support Your Body Right: Proper pillow setup and posture prevent neck and back strain, and a foam seat cushion can help during long reads.
  • Choose Sleep-Friendly Formats: Printed books are better than e-readers before bed, or dim your device’s screen and switch to print for the last half hour.
  • Set Up Your Space: Keep books, water, and reading lights within reach, and ensure proper lighting to avoid eye strain.

Ever tried reading in bed, only to end up with a sore neck or tired arms? Getting cozy with a good book before bedtime should be relaxing, not uncomfortable.

Reading in bed can be a wonderful way to unwind, but doing it wrong can lead to strain on your body and make it hard to focus on your book. Whether you’re diving into an exciting novel or studying for school, the way you position yourself matters more than you might think.

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Many readers make simple mistakes that turn their reading time into a pain in the neck—literally! With the right setup and a few smart tricks, you can turn your bed into the perfect reading spot and enjoy your books for hours.

Read on to discover how to create your perfect bedtime reading experience and make every page-turning session more enjoyable.

Quick Guide: A 30-Second Summary

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

Whether you’re a casual reader or a bookworm, knowing what not to do is just as important as knowing the right techniques. Here are the key mistakes to avoid during your bedtime reading sessions.

  1. Reading while completely flat on your back, which strains your neck and drops books on your face
  2. Holding books or devices directly above your head, risking arm fatigue and accidents
  3. Reading in dim lighting that causes eye strain and headaches
  4. Staying frozen in one position for more than 30 minutes
  5. Cramping your neck by tucking your chin too close to your chest
  6. Reading without back support against the headboard
  7. Using overhead lights that create glare on pages or screens
  8. Hunching forward instead of maintaining proper spine alignment
  9. Reading in complete darkness with just your device screen
  10. Twisting your body into awkward positions that strain your back
  11. Holding heavy books with just one hand for extended periods
  12. Forgetting to take regular breaks to rest your eyes and stretch

Avoiding these common mistakes will help prevent unnecessary strain and discomfort, letting you enjoy your reading time without paying for it later with aches and pains.

Finding the Perfect Position

Getting comfortable while reading in bed starts with how you position your body. The right setup can make the difference between an enjoyable reading session and a stiff neck the next morning.

Choosing the Right Pillows

Your pillow choice can make or break your reading comfort. Start with a firm pillow for back support, and add one medium-soft pillow to cradle your neck. Memory foam pillows work best because they hold their shape and don’t flatten quickly.

Stack your pillows in a pyramid shape, wider at the bottom and narrower at the top to create a stable base. For extra comfort, add a small throw pillow to support your lower back.

Or you can simplify, use a reading pillow or backrest pillow. Regardless of your pillow arrangement, if you’re sitting up straight, your shoulders should rest comfortably against the pillows you’re using without hunching forward.

Avoid using old, lumpy pillows that have lost their support. If they’re still in decent condition, you can upcycle old pillows around the home. Otherwise, it’s best to toss them.

Keeping Your Neck Aligned

Your neck position is crucial for preventing strain and headaches. Hold your head straight, as if you’re balancing a book on top of it. Position your book or e-reader so your eyes look slightly downward at a 15-20 degree angle.

Don’t let your chin tuck into your chest or tilt too far back. Use a small, rolled-up towel behind your neck if you feel any strain. Take breaks every 20 minutes to roll your head gently from side to side.

Check your neck position by imagining your ears lining up with your shoulders – this means your neck is properly aligned.

Choosing Your Book Format

The way you read can be just as important as where you read. Different book formats offer unique benefits and challenges when reading in bed, and choosing the right one can greatly improve your comfort.

Paperback vs. Hardcover Books

Paperback books win points for being lightweight and easy to hold with one hand while lying down. They bend slightly, making them adaptable to different reading positions without straining your wrists.

Hardcover books, while more durable, tend to be heavier and harder to manage in bed. Paperbacks also take up less space and are easier to prop against your legs for hands-free reading.

When choosing between formats, consider the book’s length—longer paperbacks might have spine durability issues. New paperbacks might need to be “broken in” gently to stay open without damaging the spine.

For short reading sessions, either format works well, but for longer reads, paperbacks typically offer more comfort and flexibility.

Dealing with Heavy Books

Heavy books, whether paperback or hardcover, require special handling to prevent fatigue and discomfort:

  • Use a pillow on your lap as a book rest to distribute the weight evenly.
  • Take breaks every 15-20 minutes when reading heavy books to prevent arm and wrist strain.
  • Consider photocopying or scanning important sections of very heavy books for bedtime reading.
  • If using a textbook or large reference book, try placing it on a slanted pillow beside you instead of holding it.
  • For lengthy reading sessions with heavy books, alternate between different positions to reduce muscle fatigue.

Remember to support your elbows when holding heavier books to reduce shoulder strain.

You might want to look for digital versions of large books when possible to make bedtime reading more manageable. However, e-reading before bedtime has its own set of issues.

Book Stands and Holders

A good book stand keeps your reading material (usually a traditional print book, but e-reader stands do exist) at the perfect angle and takes the weight off your hands. Choose a stand with adjustable angles and a stable base that works on soft surfaces like beds.

Look for stands with page holders that keep your book open without damaging the spine. Some stands come with clip-on lights, combining two essential reading tools in one. Portable stands that fold flat make storage easy and are perfect for travel.

Make sure your stand has enough support to hold your heaviest books without tipping. Some stands include detachable trays perfect for holding your phone, glasses, or a small snack while you read.

E-Readers, Good or Bad?

E-readers often shine as bedtime reading companions with their built-in lighting and adjustable text size. Most e-readers weigh less than a typical paperback and can hold thousands of books without taking up physical space. They can be a tempting option if you’ve struggled with heavy books in bed.

Their screens use special technology that reduces eye strain and works well in different lighting conditions. One-handed operation makes page-turning effortless, and you can easily switch between books without changing your position.

Many e-readers remember your place automatically and let you highlight passages without fumbling for a highlighter. The battery typically lasts for weeks, so you won’t need to worry about charging during your reading session.

Built-in dictionaries make it easy to look up words without reaching for your phone.

Yet while e-readers offer compelling conveniences like built-in lighting, adjustable text size, and the ability to hold thousands of books without physical space, recent research has highlighted important health considerations for nighttime reading.

Studies have shown that reading on light-emitting e-readers before bed can significantly impact sleep quality. One 2014 study Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source found that Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source compared to Verified Source Harvard Health Blog run by Harvard Medical School offering in-depth guides to better health and articles on medical breakthroughs. View source  reading printed books, using light-emitting e-readers:

  • Took longer to fall asleep
  • Reduced evening sleepiness (potentially disrupting natural sleep patterns)
  • Decreased melatonin secretion
  • Led to reduced morning alertness the next day

However, the higher illumination from e-readers (58.3 lux vs 26.7 lux for printed books) can affect sleep biology. A 2016 study Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source discovered that reading from an iPad decreased subjective sleepiness and delayed slow wave activity (deep sleep) by approximately 30 minutes compared to traditional books.

If you choose to use an e-reader before bed, consider:

  • Using an e-reader without backlighting
  • Reducing screen brightness to minimum comfortable levels
  • Reading earlier in the evening rather than immediately before sleep
  • Switching to a printed book for the last 30-60 minutes before bedtime

The research suggests that while e-readers offer numerous conveniences, traditional printed books remain the better choice for pre-bedtime reading if sleep quality is a priority.

Genres to Read

The art of reading before bed is more than just picking up any book and diving in. Carefully choosing what and how you read can transform your nighttime routine from a simple habit into a powerful tool for better sleep and relaxation.

Whether you’re an occasional bedtime reader or someone who can’t sleep without a few chapters, understanding how to optimize your reading choices can make a significant difference in both your enjoyment and your sleep quality.

Light Fiction and Comfort Reads

Gentle, uplifting stories work well before sleep, as they help wind down your mind without introducing stressful elements. Cozy mysteries and fantasies (without graphic content), slice-of-life fiction, and feel-good romance novels can provide enjoyable escapism without disrupting your sleep patterns.

Nature and Travel Writing

Descriptive passages about landscapes, cultures, and peaceful journeys can create a calming mental space before sleep. These genres typically avoid intense emotional engagement while offering pleasant imagery to carry into your dreams.

Poetry and Short Stories

Brief, self-contained works let you complete a satisfying reading session without getting caught up in “just one more chapter” syndrome. Poetry’s rhythmic language can have a particularly soothing effect on the mind.

Memoir and Gentle Biography

Personal stories told in a reflective, measured pace can provide interesting content without overstimulation. Look for memoirs focusing on positive life experiences or gentle personal growth rather than dramatic conflicts.

Classic Literature

Many classic novels have a slower, more measured pace than contemporary fiction. Their familiar storylines and traditional narrative structures can be comforting, though you might want to avoid the more tragic or dramatic works.

Avoid Before Bed

  • Horror or thriller novels (can trigger anxiety)
  • True crime (can also stimulate anxiety)
  • Complex technical material (keeps your analytical mind active)
  • Intense action sequences (may increase heart rate)
  • Unresolved cliffhangers (can keep you awake wondering what happens next)
  • Emotionally heavy or traumatic content

Protecting Your Eyes and Posture

While getting lost in a good book is wonderful, taking care of your body during long reading sessions is crucial. Smart habits protect both your vision and posture, letting you enjoy reading without paying for it later with aches and pains.

Taking Regular Breaks

Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain. Set a gentle alarm on your phone to remind you when it’s time for a break – it’s easy to lose track of time when you’re caught up in a good story.

Use these breaks to stretch your neck, shoulders, and wrists with gentle movements. Stand up and walk around your room during longer breaks to get your blood flowing again. During breaks, do simple exercises like shoulder rolls and neck stretches to prevent stiffness.

These short pauses actually help you read longer by preventing fatigue and helping you stay focused. Keep a glass of water nearby and use break times to stay hydrated.

Using Proper Reading Distance

Hold your book or device at least 14 to 16 inches (about arm’s length) from your eyes. Position your reading material so you’re looking slightly downward, about 15 degrees from horizontal.

Check your reading distance by holding your arm straight out. Your book should be near your wrist or slightly closer. Adjust your position if you find yourself moving the book closer to your face, which often means you’re getting tired.

For people who wear bifocals, position your book so you can read through the bottom portion of your lenses without tilting your head back.

If you notice you’re squinting or holding your book too close, consider checking your current prescription with an eye doctor. Remember that proper reading distance helps prevent both eye strain and neck pain.

Adjusting Screen Brightness

Match your e-reader’s screen brightness to your room’s lighting to reduce eye strain. In darker rooms, lower your screen brightness. It should never feel like you’re staring at a flashlight.

Use your device’s auto-brightness feature if available, but don’t be afraid to manually adjust it for your comfort. Switch to dark mode (white text on a black background) in low-light conditions to reduce glare.

Avoid reading in complete darkness, even with an e-reader that has a backlit. Always keep a small light on in the room. If your eyes feel tired, try reducing the screen’s blue light or using your device’s night mode setting.

Keep your screen clean from fingerprints and dust, which can create distracting glare. Make sure your screen brightness stays consistent, as flickering can cause eye strain.

Changing Positions

Listen to your body’s signals and change positions before discomfort sets in. Shift between sitting up straight and reclining at a slight angle to engage different muscle groups. When changing positions, move your pillows and supports to maintain proper alignment in your new pose.

If you feel any numbness or tingling, immediately change your position to restore proper circulation. Keep a second pillow arrangement ready so you can switch positions quickly without losing your reading momentum.

Try alternating between using a book stand and holding your book to give your arms a break. Remember that no single position is perfect for extended periods. Movement is key to comfortable reading. Watch for signs that you need to move, like fidgeting, tension, or loss of focus.

Using Your Legs to Create a Natural Slope

Bend your knees slightly to create a natural ramp for your book or device. Place a pillow under your knees to maintain this position without strain. This slight bend helps reduce lower back pressure and creates a more natural reading angle.

If you’re using a heavy book, rest it against your thighs to take the weight off your arms. Keep your feet flat on the bed rather than crossing your legs, which can lead to poor circulation.

Adjust your leg position every 15 to 20 minutes to prevent stiffness. This position also helps maintain good blood flow while you read.

Setting Up Your Space

Creating the perfect reading environment is just as important as finding the right position. A well-organized space helps you focus on your book and prevents constant interruptions from small discomforts.

Getting Proper Lighting

Good bedroom lighting prevents eye strain and makes reading more enjoyable. Position your reading light slightly behind and above your shoulder to eliminate shadows on your pages. Choose a lamp with adjustable brightness levels – at least 450 lumens for comfortable reading.

Avoid using overhead lights alone, as they often create glare on pages or screens. LED book lights that clip onto your book can work well, but make sure they spread light evenly across both pages.

Keep your light source on your dominant side to prevent your hand from casting shadows while turning pages. If you share a room, consider using a focused reading light instead of broader room lighting to avoid disturbing others.

A warm-toned light bulb is easier on your eyes and won’t interfere with your sleep patterns like bright white or blue lights can.

Managing Room Temperature

Keep your room between 65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit (18 to 22 degrees Celsius) for optimal reading comfort. Use a small fan to circulate air without creating too much noise or page-disturbing breeze.

Layer your bedding so you can easily adjust if you get too warm or cool while reading. Keep a light blanket within reach for when your body temperature drops during longer reading sessions.

Consider using a warm sock or slipper set to keep your feet cozy without overheating the rest of your body. If you’re using electronics, ensure proper ventilation to prevent devices from heating up your space. A room that’s too warm can make you drowsy and cut your reading time short.

Keeping Water Within Reach

Set up a stable spot for your water within arm’s reach, but not where you might knock it over. Use a water bottle with a secure lid or a cup with a straw to prevent spills on your books or devices.

Place your drink on a solid bedside table that’s at or slightly below your mattress height for easy access. Keep a coaster handy to prevent condensation from damaging your furniture. Consider using an insulated container to keep your drink at the right temperature longer.

Do you struggle to drink plain water? There are sleep-friendly alternatives to pursue, like bedtime herbal teas and tart cherry juice.

If you’re using an open cup, place it slightly away from your books and electronics to avoid accidents. Remember to take small sips regularly. Staying hydrated helps maintain focus while reading.

Storing Books Nearby

Storing books in the bedroom requires thoughtful organization to maintain both accessibility and aesthetics. Consider dedicating a corner of the room to floating shelves or a narrow bookcase that won’t overwhelm the space. You can also hang a bed pocket organizer on the side of your mattress for extra storage without taking up table space.

A bookcase bed frame also offers the perfect solution for avid readers, combining storage and easy access in one elegant piece of furniture. These frames typically feature built-in shelving in the headboard or along the sides, keeping your current reads literally at arm’s length. Some designs even include hidden compartments or adjustable shelving, letting you customize the space for different book sizes.

Arrange your reading accessories in order of how often you use them, keeping frequently needed items closest. For example, have a pen and notebook handy for taking notes without having to get up. Use bookends or a small tray to prevent books from sliding off your bedside table.

Remember that bedrooms tend to be more humid than other rooms, so keep valuable books away from exterior walls to prevent moisture damage. If you use an e-reader, keep the charging cable in an easily accessible spot so you never run out of battery mid-chapter.

If you’re the type to read multiple books at once, create a small stack in your planned reading order to avoid constantly rearranging things. Separate your current reads separate from your to-be-read pile, and rotate books seasonally to keep your collection fresh and manageable.

Using Bookmarks to Avoid Awkward Holds

Smart bookmark usage can significantly improve your reading comfort and prevent strain on your hands and wrists. Invest in magnetic bookmarks for thicker books or clip-on styles that can hold pages open without damaging them.

Or choose bookmarks with tabs that stick out from the top or side for easy location without disturbing your position. Corner bookmarks slide over pages to prevent slipping, especially for larger books. Position your primary bookmark where it’s easily accessible without having to shift your entire reading position.

Keep multiple thin bookmarks handy with your other nightstand essentials for marking different sections or reference points in your book. You can set up a small caddy or shelf within arm’s reach to hold your current book, reading glasses, bookmarks, and any note materials you might need.

Use different colored bookmarks to mark different types of content, like favorite passages versus where you left off reading. Having a few spares within arm’s reach avoids disrupting your reading flow if one falls out.

Creating a Bedtime Reading Routine

Establishing a consistent reading routine helps signal your body it’s time to wind down and enhances your reading enjoyment. Start by setting aside 30-45 minutes each night, preferably at the same time, to create a habit your body recognizes.

Prepare your reading space before you begin—have your book ready, adjust your lighting, and gather any drinks or healthy bedtime snacks you might want.

Turn off notifications and put your device on “do not disturb” mode to prevent you from scrolling your phone before bed and interrupting your reading time.

Consider starting your routine with a calming activity like stretching or having a warm drink to get into a relaxed mindset. Keep a bedside journal nearby to jot down thoughts or memorable quotes without breaking your routine.

Create natural stopping points by setting chapter goals rather than time limits to avoid leaving off at awkward moments.

Extra Comfort Tips

Transform your regular reading session into a cozy retreat with these comfort-enhancing strategies. These additional tips take your reading experience from good to great, helping you create the perfect environment for getting lost in your favorite books.

Reading Pillows and Back Support

A good reading pillow can transform your reading comfort, providing crucial support to prevent neck and back strain. The best options offer firm, structured back support with padded armrests for elbow comfort. Look for designs featuring neck support that maintains a proper viewing angle, along with dense filling that won’t collapse during long reading sessions.

Consider keeping a smaller lumbar pillow handy to adjust support as needed during longer reading sessions. A backrest pillow helps prevent the slouching that often occurs as we get tired.

Seat Cushions

While it might seem unusual to bring a seat cushion to bed, many devoted readers swear by this unconventional comfort hack. A high-quality foam seat cushion can provide crucial support for your tailbone and lower back during extended reading sessions.

The cushion helps maintain proper spine alignment even when you’re propped against pillows, preventing the subtle aches that can develop from sitting in bed for long periods. Some find that placing the cushion under their thighs helps maintain better circulation during long reading sessions.

A good cushion is also multipurpose, serving as a cushion for an home office chair or as padding for the hours you might spend sitting in an arena.

Choose a seat cushion for back support with memory foam or high-density material that won’t flatten quickly with use. Position it slightly forward of your reading pillow to create an ergonomic reading position that supports your natural spine curve.

Adjustable Beds and Reading Bases

If you frequently read in bed, an adjustable base can be a worthwhile investment. These bases offer customizable positions for both back and legs, reducing pressure on your lower back while improving circulation through slight elevation. The proper positioning also means less neck strain from better book positioning.

Even without an adjustable bed, you can simulate some benefits using a wedge pillow for upper body elevation. Place a small pillow under the knees to reduce back strain, and keep stackable pillows nearby that can be adjusted as needed throughout your reading session.

Using Reading Socks or Blankets

Comfort starts from your feet up when reading in bed, so choose your warming accessories wisely. Pick breathable, non-slip sleep socks that keep your feet warm without making them sweat. Merino wool or cotton blends work best.

Learn how to wrap yourself up in a blanket so you can feel cozy without being impeded as you turn pages. Position your blanket so it doesn’t restrict your movement or create awkward bunching behind your back. Avoid materials that make rustling sounds when you move, as this can break your reading concentration.

And consider using a lap blanket instead of a full-size one to prevent overheating while still staying warm in bed as you read.

If using a weighted blanket, position it mainly over your legs to create a cozy feeling without restricting your arms’ movement. Keep two different weighted blankets nearby, a lighter one for warm nights and a heavier one for cooler evenings.

Setting Up a Small Fan

A properly positioned fan can make your reading environment more comfortable without causing distractions. Place the fan at least three feet away from your reading spot, angling it to provide indirect airflow that won’t disturb your pages.

Choose a fan with multiple speed settings and a quiet motor – you want air circulation without the noise disrupting your focus. Position the fan slightly above your reading level to prevent dry eyes while still maintaining good air circulation.

Consider a model with a remote control so you can adjust settings without leaving your comfortable position.

Use the oscillating feature to prevent stiff muscles from constant air flow in one direction. If reading with others nearby, aim the fan to create a personal comfort zone without affecting their space.

FAQs

Will reading in bed affect my sleep quality?

Reading in bed can actually improve your sleep quality if done right. Choose relaxing books rather than exciting thrillers or work-related materials that might keep your mind racing.

Set a specific cut-off time, ideally 30-45 minutes before you plan to sleep, to help your body wind down naturally. Using warm-toned lighting and avoiding bright screens helps maintain your natural sleep cycle.

For best results, make reading part of your regular bedtime routine to signal to your body that it’s time to relax.

How can I read in bed without disturbing my partner?

Invest in a book light that directs light specifically onto your pages without spreading throughout the room. Position yourself so your light source faces away from your partner’s side of the bed.

Consider using an e-reader with a dark mode setting and minimal screen brightness for late-night reading. If using a regular book, try to minimize page-turning sounds and avoid shifting positions too frequently.

How do I keep my place in the book without damaging the pages?

Using proper bookmarks is key to preserving both your books and your reading flow. Invest in magnetic bookmarks or corner clips that won’t fall out easily.

Avoid folding page corners or leaving books face-down, as these habits can damage the spine and pages. Consider using multiple thin bookmarks or sticky notes if you like to mark different sections or memorable passages.

Is it bad for my eyes to read while lying down?

Reading while lying flat can strain both your eyes and neck, but reading in a proper reclined position is perfectly fine. Maintain a distance of 14-16 inches between your eyes and your reading material.

Ensure your light source comes from behind and above your shoulder to prevent shadows and glare. Take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

Is it better to read or watch TV before bed?

Reading is generally considered superior to watching TV before bed. This is because books don’t emit blue light, which can disrupt your natural sleep cycle.

Additionally, reading is a more active yet calming engagement that helps your mind transition to sleep and wake up refreshed, particularly when they choose positive or neutral reading material. Meanwhile, TV can be overstimulating with its rapid scene changes, bright colors, and sudden sound variations.

How can I keep my arms from getting tired holding books?

Arm fatigue is usually a sign that you need better support for your reading materials. Try using a book stand or pillow positioned on your lap to take the weight off your arms. Consider switching to an e-reader, which is typically lighter and easier to hold than traditional books.

Take regular breaks every 20-30 minutes to stretch and shake out your arms. Remember to support your elbows with pillows when holding heavier books.

How can I prevent my neck from hurting after reading in bed?

Neck pain usually results from poor posture or inadequate support while reading. Start by positioning multiple pillows behind your back to maintain a slight recline rather than sitting completely upright. Keep your neck in a neutral position, imagining a straight line from your ears to your shoulders.

Adjust your book or device position so you’re looking slightly downward instead of straight ahead or up. Remember to take regular breaks to stretch your neck and change positions at least every 30 minutes.

What’s the best lighting setup for reading in bed?

The ideal reading light should be bright enough to read comfortably without creating glare or harsh shadows. Position your light source behind and slightly above your shoulder on your dominant side.

Choose a lamp with adjustable brightness levels and warm-toned light options to avoid disrupting your sleep cycle. Consider using a combination of ambient room lighting and a focused reading light to reduce eye strain.

What time should you stop studying at night?

Stop intensive studying at least 2 to 3 hours before your planned bedtime to allow your mind to properly wind down and prepare for sleep. This buffer period is crucial because challenging mental activities like studying can increase cognitive arousal and make it harder to fall asleep naturally.

Transition to lighter activities after studying, aiming to stop by 9 PM if possible, though this timing should be adjusted based on your personal schedule and sleep patterns. Just ensure you maintain that crucial wind-down period between studying and sleeping.

Is it better to read at night or morning?

Both morning and night reading have distinct benefits, with morning reading often associated with better comprehension and retention since your mind is fresh and alert. Evening reading can be excellent for relaxation and winding down, particularly when choosing lighter material that won’t overstimulate your mind.

While both times can be valuable for different purposes, research suggests that challenging or educational material is better suited for morning reading, while evening reading should focus on enjoyable, lighter content that helps transition you into sleep.

How much should I read in a day?

The amount varies by individual, but try aiming for at least 30 minutes Verified Source National Library of Medicine (NIH) World’s largest medical library, making biomedical data and information more accessible. View source per day to maintain cognitive benefits and build a sustainable reading habit.

Voracious readers might comfortably read for several hours, while those just building a reading habit might start with 15 to 20 minute sessions and gradually increase their reading time.

The key is consistency rather than quantity. Reading a little bit every day is more beneficial than sporadic longer sessions, and you should adjust your reading time based on your schedule, energy levels, and personal goals.

Conclusion

Reading in bed should be a relaxing escape, not a source of discomfort or strain. By following these guidelines for positioning, setting up your space, and choosing the right reading format, you can create the perfect environment for your bedtime reading sessions.

Remember to take regular breaks, maintain proper posture, and listen to your body’s signals when it needs a change. Avoid common mistakes like reading in poor light or staying in one position too long, as these can quickly turn your reading pleasure into physical pain.

With the right setup and habits, you can enjoy hours of comfortable reading that actually helps you unwind before sleep. Make these tips part of your daily routine, and you’ll transform your bed into the cozy reading nook you’ve always wanted.


About the author

Geoff McKinnen is a writer focusing mainly on the healthcare industry and has written articles on everything from foods to help you lose weight to the connection between Alzheimer’s and sleep. Geoff’s passionate about helping readers improve their well-being to lead happier lives. Outside of work, Geoff enjoys cycling and hiking and believes that by leading a healthy lifestyle, he can help others do the same.

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