I've always known reading romance and erotica was good for me. Now I have proof. Because science!
Thank you to writer Kimberly Turner for this guest post!
Even before Fifty
Shades of Grey was on the scene, women were
avid readers of romance. According to the International Business Times, some 75 million people (90
percent of them women) in the United States read at least one romance novel in
2008, though most are long-time dedicated readers of the genre. And with the
rising popularity of all things kink, being more open about your preference in
literature is not only no longer taboo, it’s encouraged. This is made evident
by Adam and Eve, who explain that erotic
novels offer a slew of sex positive possibilities. Reading your favorite scenes
from a steamy romance aloud to your partner is sure to get you both in the
mood, benefiting your libido and overall sex life. But that’s not all romance
novels have to offer.
Improve Memory and Brain Function
It’s fairly well-known that reading offers plenty of intellectual perks. Cracking open a book regularly can enhance analytical thinking skills, improve your memory, and even help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, according to ABC News. But it may come as a surprise that these benefits are not only gained by reading the classics; cognitive functions can get a boost from erotic romance, too. Take into consideration other areas the romance genre stimulates in addition to your brain, and reading suddenly becomes a total body experience.
Improve Self-Confidence
Gone are the days of the damsel in distress. The majority of modern-day romance heroines are strong, sassy, and not afraid to express what they want, and then go out and get it. As Today notes, more contemporary romance novels are featuring fearless female leads in many forms. Their covers are showcasing that by having a woman alone on the cover or portraying her dominating a man. Not only does this role-reversal make for more dynamic plotlines, not to mention hotter sex scenes, it also helps boost the self-esteem of readers of the genre.
Through portrayals of women that are more grounded in the reality of today’s world, readers can better relate to the heroine in the novel, placing themselves in her shoes. By vicariously experiencing a scenario though the female characters in the book, such as a breakup or marital issues, romance readers are able to successfully work through similar situations in their own lives. They can provide a new perspective and additional insight into what they really want.
Improve Your Relationship
Although there’s no doubt your sex life will benefit from reading erotic romance, other areas of your relationship are likely to reap the rewards, too. The Guardian reported that researchers from the University of Buffalo found reading fiction can help you better empathize with others, including your honey. With increased empathy, you’ll be able to see your partner’s side of things, which can come in handy when faced with a disagreement or major life decision.
Romance novels are full of emotional moments, and regular exposure to heartfelt expressions, even when it’s between two characters in a book, can aid in recognition of that same affection in the real world. By being more receptive to this kind of emotional vulnerability, you’ll be more likely to communicate with your partner, not only in regards to sexual fantasies and desires, but about everyday occurrences. This will then strengthen your bond and overall connection, both in and out of the bedroom.
Thank you to writer Kimberly Turner for this guest post!
3 Ways Reading Romance Can Benefit Your Life
Here are 3 ways erotica can give your life a boost outside of the bedroom:
Improve Memory and Brain Function
It’s fairly well-known that reading offers plenty of intellectual perks. Cracking open a book regularly can enhance analytical thinking skills, improve your memory, and even help prevent Alzheimer’s disease, according to ABC News. But it may come as a surprise that these benefits are not only gained by reading the classics; cognitive functions can get a boost from erotic romance, too. Take into consideration other areas the romance genre stimulates in addition to your brain, and reading suddenly becomes a total body experience.
Improve Self-Confidence
Gone are the days of the damsel in distress. The majority of modern-day romance heroines are strong, sassy, and not afraid to express what they want, and then go out and get it. As Today notes, more contemporary romance novels are featuring fearless female leads in many forms. Their covers are showcasing that by having a woman alone on the cover or portraying her dominating a man. Not only does this role-reversal make for more dynamic plotlines, not to mention hotter sex scenes, it also helps boost the self-esteem of readers of the genre.
Through portrayals of women that are more grounded in the reality of today’s world, readers can better relate to the heroine in the novel, placing themselves in her shoes. By vicariously experiencing a scenario though the female characters in the book, such as a breakup or marital issues, romance readers are able to successfully work through similar situations in their own lives. They can provide a new perspective and additional insight into what they really want.
Improve Your Relationship
Although there’s no doubt your sex life will benefit from reading erotic romance, other areas of your relationship are likely to reap the rewards, too. The Guardian reported that researchers from the University of Buffalo found reading fiction can help you better empathize with others, including your honey. With increased empathy, you’ll be able to see your partner’s side of things, which can come in handy when faced with a disagreement or major life decision.
Romance novels are full of emotional moments, and regular exposure to heartfelt expressions, even when it’s between two characters in a book, can aid in recognition of that same affection in the real world. By being more receptive to this kind of emotional vulnerability, you’ll be more likely to communicate with your partner, not only in regards to sexual fantasies and desires, but about everyday occurrences. This will then strengthen your bond and overall connection, both in and out of the bedroom.
