How to stay focused while reading
In a fast-paced world crowded with technology and all its means, most of us are probably experiencing the loss of focus when reading which leads us to re-read sentences over and over again for them to make sense. According to science, this occurrence may be due to the fact that the brain takes a lot of cognitive energy to put us in the zone for proper functioning. Every time we are interrupted, we get lost and the brain has to take some time to boot up once more.
The globe is currently facing a crisis – the COVID-19 situation – which requires us to work from home and stick with online education. Under the flexibility of time and the comfort of our own homes, we might just have all the distractions that can hinder our concentration. In order to remain as efficient as possible, here are some tips to maintain great focus while reading.
1. Meditate.
Studies in both the human and natural sciences show that mindfulness training can actually create and strengthen new neural pathways that may lead to the enhancement of our cognitive processes. With a clear mind and within a space of no disturbance, our attention can be placed on reading.
2. Read in short intervals.
Finishing a book in one sitting is not always ideal as it can lead to the exhaustion of our cognitive abilities and decrease our comprehension abilities. It is said to be more effective to set chapter or page goals within a given time frame. The importance of taking breaks has been supported by psychology to aid in the recovery of our mental resources and the improvement of our performance. It can also rest our eyes from the strain!
3. Put calming music on.
Researches have provided evidence that music can enhance concentration. Just make sure that the songs you play are instrumentals such as classical and jazz music – or else there can be a disturbance between your visuo-spatial and phonological working memory that may yield it impossible for you to understand and remember what you are reading.
4. Use the reward system.
What’s in store for you when you accomplish your reading goals? After setting multiple intervals, you should assign rewards for each chapter that you finish. Studies attest that the reward system can motivate individuals and drive them to focus more on what they are doing.
5. Be healthier.
Your diet and lifestyle can actually alter your memory. It might be a great idea to exercise before reading because this leads in increasing levels of dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin in your body which regulates the mood and improve memory retention. Eating foods with low sugar and greater protein amounts can also fuel your brain to prime you to concentrate on your readings.