How to Read a Book without Falling Asleep

By ilivetoteach (eHow.com)

When I was younger, I would get into bed with a good book and read for five hours straight. It was better than sex. However, now that I’m no longer a spring chicken, I fall asleep on my book in five minutes or less. This is a terrible disappointment to an avid reader. I even fall asleep if I read sitting up in a chair. I know my grandmother is looking down and laughing at me, because I used to laugh at her for doing the same thing. I’ll share a few tricks that I’ve developed to stay awake longer than five minutes.

Step 1
If at all possible, do your reading in the morning, perhaps while you’re having your cup of coffee, or after the kids are off to school if you’re a stay at home parent. I knew a lady who would read while she took her morning walk. I would rather look at nature while I’m walking, but you might like this method. Just be sure to walk on the sidewalk, and stop at the corner to look for traffic before crossing.

Step 2
Sit in a stiff back chair at the table. Sitting in your easy chair has the same effect as lying in bed. Eat something nutritious like an apple while you’re reading. Or drink an ice cold drink. Make sure it’s not too warm in the house. Open a window if it isn’t winter.

Step 3
Read on a bench at the park. The backless seat and fresh air will keep you awake. Meet a friend at Barnes & Noble or Borders. I used to do this with my friends before I moved away. We’d have coffee and talk for a while and then we’d each get a book and read sitting in the cafe.

Step 4
Buy audio books or check them out from your library. I listen to a book while running errands, cleaning house, or driving. It’s great to get through a book, and get all your work done at the same time. I find housework less detestable if I can listen to a book at the same time.

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Image source: clipartpal.com

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