Breathe In

Asking the question, "Why read?" is like asking why take a deep breath; When you can continue to draw in the minimal breath needed to survive. Shallow chest breathing is the drawing of minimal breath into the lungs, usually drawing air into the chest area using the intercostal muscles rather than throughout the lungs via the diaphragm. Shallow breathing can result in or be symptomatic of rapid breathing and hypoventilation.
Apparently, the practice of reading books creates cognitive engagement that improves lots of things, including vocabulary, thinking skills, and concentration. It also can affect empathy, social perception, and emotional intelligence, the sum of which helps people stay on the planet longer.

"There is some good in this world, and it’s worth fighting for."

– J.R.R. Tolkien, The Two Towers

“Always throw spilled salt over your left shoulder. Keep rosemary by your garden gate. Add pepper to your mashed potatoes. Plant roses and lavender, for luck. Fall in love whenever you can.”

– Alice Hoffman, Practical Magic