Reading has always been one of my favorite places to go.
Not because I’m trying to learn something.
Not because I’m trying to be productive.
But because it feels good.
There’s something about opening a book and slipping into another world that instantly softens me. Sometimes I get those quiet aha moments that stay with me long after I’ve closed the book. Other times, it’s just the joy of a good story unfolding in my mind like a movie I can’t stop watching.
Reading sparks my creativity. It stretches my imagination. It reminds me that play still belongs in my life.
And because reading brings me so much joy, I’ve learned that how I read matters just as much as what I read.
How I Like to Read
Most of my reading happens in bed.
Early in the morning, when the house is still quiet.
Or late at night, when the day has finally loosened its grip.
I like silence when I read. If there’s sound, it has to be soft and ambient—rain, wind, or very smooth instrumental music.
👉🏾 ambient sound machine with rain sounds
When I read, I don’t skim. I settle in. I usually read about 30 pages at a time, which means comfort isn’t optional for me—it’s essential.
When Reading Stops Feeling Good (and What Helps)
The first thing to bother me when I’ve been reading too long is my neck.
If the book is resting too low, my neck starts to ache. If I hold it up, my hands get tired. My right hand has arthritis, and I broke my wrist years ago, so holding a book for long stretches can get uncomfortable fast.
This is where tools quietly come in.
I’ve learned that using a book stand for reading in bed or a hands-free book holder makes a huge difference. It takes the pressure off my neck and hands so I can stay inside the story instead of negotiating with my body.
I’ve also found that a supportive reading pillow for sitting up in bed helps me settle in without constantly shifting.
My Eyes Deserve Care Too
My eyes will also let me know when it’s time to stop.
After a while, they start to ache, especially with physical books. I’ve tried reader glasses, but what really helps is having the right lighting and visual support.
Warm light makes all the difference for me. A clip-on book light with warm light or a page magnifier with built-in light lets me read without straining my eyes, especially in the early morning or late at night.
This is also why I keep a Kindle or e-reader with adjustable text size nearby. Being able to make the text bigger has helped me stay connected to books even when my eyes need a break.
Physical Books, E-Books, and Audiobooks (I Love Them All)
Physical books will always have my heart.
I love highlighting passages, writing in the margins, and holding a book close when a sentence hits me right in the chest.
For annotating, I’m particular. A clear-tip highlighter feels like a small luxury because I can actually see where I’m highlighting. A good bookmark that stays put also makes the experience smoother than you’d think.
When I’m on the go or my body needs rest, audiobooks step in. I usually listen with comfortable wireless earbuds so I can move freely without distraction.
Protecting My Reading Time
When I’m reading, I’m fully present.
My phone stays on Do Not Disturb, and sometimes I’ll prop it up on a simple phone stand if I’m listening to an audiobook so I’m not holding it the whole time.
Before I start reading, I like to set a quiet intention. I’ll open the book and think, This is what I’m receiving from this book today.
That’s when reading becomes an escape—not another task.
The Little Things That Make Reading Feel Luxurious
Reading feels extra special when I have my nice things nearby.
A beautiful bookmark.
A high-quality highlighter for annotating books.
A soft throw blanket.
A lumbar pillow for bed reading.
These are small things, but together they tell my body it’s safe to slow down.
Atmosphere Matters More Than We Think
Scent matters to me when I read.
Clean, grounding scents like mahogany teakwood, cotton, or linen help me relax. I love using a candle warmer lamp so I can enjoy the scent without worrying about an open flame.
Add a warm cup of coffee or tea—kept warm on a mug warmer—and suddenly reading becomes a full experience.
Reading Tools I Love (and the Ones I’m Still Dreaming About)
Some tools I already use and love. Others, I admire and keep on my wish list.
I dream about a decorative book stand, a personalized Kindle case, and a reading journal where I can track what I’m learning and loving.
None of these are necessities.
But they make reading easier.
And when something brings you joy, ease matters.
If You Miss Reading
If you miss reading but feel too tired or distracted, start with five minutes.
Five quiet minutes with a book is enough to remind you why you loved reading in the first place.
Those five minutes always turn into more.
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You can also browse all of my favorite reading tools in one place here:
👉🏾 Shop my Amazon storefront
