Too Busy to Read? Why Listening Is the New Reading—and Your Best Bet for De-Stressing

Remember being a kid? Growing up, it felt like the importance of reading was everywhere, from story time in preschool all the way through elementary school. Our parents read to us, and we were encouraged to dive into books to let our imaginations run wild. Personally, I spent hours getting lost in books—after school, before bed, all summer long.

But as I got older, life got… well, busier. Reading became an occasional thing, not a central part of my life. It was mostly for English class or standardized tests. Between academics, sports, and a social life, my middle and high school years were jam-packed, leaving little room for just reading for fun.

Fast-forward to today, and for most of us, that feeling is even more intense. Our schedules are crammed, our to-do lists are a mile long, and our free time is often hijacked by the endless scroll of social media. We know reading is good for us, but who has the time?

This is where the magic of audiobooks comes in. At Nookix, we believe that connecting with great stories shouldn't be a luxury. It's not just entertainment; it's a powerful tool for self-care, and it's more accessible than you think.

 

Listen Up: It’s Scientifically Proven to Reduce Stress

 

Modern life brings a whirlwind of pressure—work deadlines, social obligations, and the constant hum of anxiety. All these responsibilities leave little time to unwind. But what if you could find relief in just a few minutes?

It turns out you can. You only need six minutes of listening to a story to start reducing your stress levels. A landmark 2009 study from the University of Sussex found that reading (which includes being read to) can slash stress levels by up to 68%. That’s more effective than other soothing activities like taking a walk or listening to music.

Dr. Anya Sharma, a cognitive psychologist, explains why this is so powerful. “Listening to a narrative allows you to take a mental break from the hamster wheel of your own thoughts,” she says. “It transports you, lowering your heart rate and easing muscle tension. When you’re up at 2 a.m. worrying, putting on an audiobook is far more likely to soothe your mind than checking your phone.”

Alex, a longtime Nookix user, found this to be a game-changer.

“I was stuck in a cycle of late-night doomscrolling that just fed my anxiety. I switched to listening to an audiobook before bed instead. It was incredible. Focusing on the narrator's voice and the story completely shifted my state of mind. It became my go-to coping mechanism.”

 

It’s Not Just About Chilling Out—It’s About Growing

 

The benefits of listening go far beyond relaxation. Audiobooks are also a powerhouse for personal growth.

• It Boosts Your Empathy: This is one of our favorite things about stories. Listening to fiction, in particular, lets you walk a mile in someone else's shoes. Studies have shown this experience improves your ability to understand what others are thinking and feeling. It can positively impact your personal relationships and your ability to connect with others. How amazing is that?

• It’s a Workout for Your Brain: Just like reading, listening actively engages your mind. It can improve your vocabulary, grammar, and listening comprehension skills. The more you listen, the more you sharpen your focus and your ability to process information efficiently—skills that are invaluable in school, work, and life.

 

The Ultimate Life Hack: Turn Dead Time into Development Time

 

Here’s the biggest advantage for busy people: audiobooks turn previously wasted time into productive, enjoyable “me time.” Your morning commute, your time at the gym, the half-hour you spend doing dishes or folding laundry—all of it can now be time spent with a great book. You can learn something new, explore a different world, or simply be entertained, all while ticking things off your to-do list.

 

Start Your Listening Journey Today

 

I’ll be the first to admit that for years, I wasn’t much of a “reader.” But since I’ve embraced audiobooks, I’ve realized that when you truly love the story you’re hearing, it’s not only enjoyable—it’s infinitely better for you than staring at a screen.

Everyone can benefit from listening. You’ll gain new insights into the world around you—different cultures, fresh perspectives, and ways of thinking that expand your horizons in ways you never thought possible.

Listening is not just a pastime; it’s a powerful tool for personal growth, intellectual development, and mental well-being.

As Alex puts it, “Beyond all the benefits, listening on Nookix is just plain fun. Once you find the kinds of books you love, you’ll be hooked.”

So, stop letting “busy” be an excuse. We encourage you to weave listening into your life. Open Nookix, find a story that sparks your interest, and press play. You’ll find there are endless advantages waiting for you.