Speed reading is a skill that can be acquired with a lot of practice. However, it is useless to read faster without having the capability to retain and comprehend the information that you are reading. There are a number of methods that can help you increase your reading speed but today I am going to show you how you can use both sides of your brain to meet your reading goals. The human brain has two sides, the left side and the right side. Both these sides are responsible for executing numerous functions.
The Left Side And Right Side
Left side of the brain control numerous things including scientific ability, number skills and spoken languages. On the other hand, the right side of the brain controls things like creativity, visualization, memorization and imagination. A lot of people use the left side of their brain to read. This is a normal function as the left side of the brain controls written and spoken languages. However, recent studies have revealed that people who use both sides of their brain while reading develop incredible reading speeds and also retain information more efficiently. The following are ways in which you can use both sides of your brain simultaneously.
1. Use A Reading Program
These days you can find various speed reading programs that target both sides of the brain. By using these programs you can train both sides of your brain to function efficiently. As I have mentioned before, majority of people usually utilize the left side of their brain while reading. However, with the help of specialized reading programs you can train the right side of your brain to get actively involved in the reading process. Furthermore, most reading programs also include various exercises that also help to enhance retention, peripheral vision and recall.
2. Music Therapy
Numerous studies have revealed that people should listen to music while reading. Sounds are processed by the right side of your brain. Hence, by listening to music the right side of your brain will get activated and it will be involved in the reading process.
3. Visualize And Create Images
As I have mentioned earlier, the right side of your brain controls visualization and imagination hence try to visualize the text that you are reading for e.g. if you are reading a story book about an airplane that crashed then try to visualize the whole scene while reading the text. This will allow you to train both sides of your brain to work together.
On the contrary, in order to maintain a strong focus while reading there are a number of things that you must do.
- Make sure that you read in isolation. Turn of television, radio and keep your cell phone away. These things not only cause disturbance while you are reading but they also take your focus away from reading.
- You should read while sitting in a proper posture. Make sure that you are in a comfortable position while reading. If possible it is always advisable to read while sitting on a chair. Your feet should be at a 90 degree angle while touching the ground.
- In order to use your brain efficiently it is very important to take breaks. Ideally you should read in 50 minute chunks and then take a break to rejuvenate.
The bottom line is that speed readers use both sides of their brain. By doing various reading exercises and following the above mentioned steps you can easily teach both sides of your brain to function together. Always remember that the human brain is cable to perform the toughest of tasks. All you need to do is train your brain to handle problems efficiently and rationally.