After Primary school and the beginning of high school, I stopped reading, and the only time I would spend reading was maybe subtitles on a movie, video games, or an article. Very rarely did I read a book, even books we did for school I did not like and did not put much effort into. In grade 12 we had the choice of which book we could read and I loved my book and read it super quickly, however, after the book I went back to not reading. It was only my second year in university when I was assigned to read a book by John J. Ratey called Spark: The Revolutionary New Science of Exercise and the Brain for my gym class.

The book was so informational and interesting that I read it way quicker than any other assigned reading (lol). I have always been very active and have never read a book on a science topic made for adults, mixing the two was amazing and I have learnt so much from it. It helped me understand the extent how which exercise helps us not just stay “fit” but also helps us in social-emotional regulation even as adults. the book dives deep into different topics in every chapter such as: Brain cell regeneration, anxiety, ADHD, depression, stress, addiction, and even aging.

While the book is made for adult health these facts are important to me in a professional sense as well. As a teacher, I am striving to teach my students how to create a life full of healthy relationships. To do this exercise is vital to help your body and mind regulate, allowing you to make smart decisions and think critically. If I can help my students in creating healthy exercising habits the students will live healthier and happier lives.

While I didn’t pick up another book for my own time during the rest of the semester as I was already drained from reading other stuff I was so excited to go to the bookstore after my semester and pick out a few books. I spent hours in there that first time and now love going into every bookstore I see to find the books I’ve been searching to get.