You may not have thought of reading as a health habit, but reading does benefit the mind. Regular reading also can release stress and stimulate family bonds, and help children academically. Try these tips for incorporating reading into your life:

• Instead of TV, opt for a novel. The storytelling can be just as gripping, and you can enjoy the plot over a series of nights rather than in a single hour. And while TV disengages your mind, words stimulate your imagination and thought processes.

• Choose light reading over technology. Browsing the Internet or visiting social networking sites can leave your head spinning. While it may distract you from responsibilities, it isn’t really an escape into the relaxed silence your busy brain craves. Try short stories, daily meditations, or magazine articles for a quick break to recharge.

• Use educational literature instead of hearsay. Reading up on current expert advice — whether about nutrition, fitness, or the economy — can keep you informed about the facts.

Knowledge is power — and you can gain that plus so much more through reading.