How To Be A "Mood Reader"

Embracing the Art of Reading with Your Heart

Mood reading is an intuitive way of selecting books based on your current emotional state. It's about allowing your mood to guide your reading choices, ensuring that every page turn is a journey of self-discovery and emotional resonance. Here’s how you can embrace this beautiful practice:

Immersed in the magic of a book, a reader unveils a lush, fantastical world that springs to life around them, blending imagination with reality.

1. Listen to Your Emotions

The first step to becoming a mood reader is to tune into your emotions. Ask yourself: How am I feeling today? Are you feeling adventurous, melancholic, or perhaps optimistic? Your mood is your compass, guiding you toward the perfect book.

2. Explore Different Genres

Don’t limit yourself to one genre. Mood reading is about exploring different styles and themes based on your mood. For example:

• Romance when you're feeling sentimental.

• Mystery when you're in the mood for something thrilling.

• Fantasy when you need an escape.

  
  

3. Keep a Diverse Bookshelf

Maintain a diverse collection of books that cater to various moods. This could include classics, contemporary fiction, non-fiction, poetry, or even graphic novels. Having options ensures you always find something that resonates with your current mood.

4. Don’t Force It

One of the most important aspects of mood reading is flexibility. If you start a book and it doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to put it aside and pick up something else. Mood reading is about enjoying the journey, not forcing yourself through a book that doesn’t align with your mood.

5. Set the Scene

Mood reading is all about being present. Search ambiance videos on YouTube that align with the setting or theme of your book. Popular reads like Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros have multiple ambiance videos that make you feel like you're walking the halls of Basgiath College. Allow yourself to fully immerse in the story with ambiance and also, music! Spotify and YouTube have playlists designed for readers. I recommend the Shire playlists on Spotify for those reading Lord of the Rings or any high fantasy novel. Savor each chapter, and let the narrative transport you to different worlds and emotions.

6. Reflect and Connect

After finishing a book, take a moment to reflect on how it made you feel. Did it resonate with your mood? Did it change your perspective? Connecting with the story on a deeper level enhances the reading experience and fosters personal growth.

7. Join a Community

Sharing your reading experiences with others can enrich your journey. Join online forums or book clubs where you can discuss your favorite books and discover new titles based on recommendations from fellow mood readers.

8. Keep a Reading Journal

Documenting your reading journey can be incredibly rewarding. Write down the books you’ve read, how they made you feel, and why they resonated with your mood at the time. This helps you track your emotional journey and identify patterns in your reading preferences.

Conclusion

Mood reading is more than just a way to choose books; it’s a way to connect with yourself and the world around you. By embracing this practice, you not only enhance your reading experience but also cultivate a deeper understanding of your emotions and desires. So, let your mood guide you, and embark on this beautiful journey of self-discovery through the pages of a book.