Source: http://farm4.static.flickr.com

So, I’m sure everyone would guess that reading is a pretty relaxing activity. That is, I suppose, unless you’re really into the Twilight saga or scary Stephen King novels, or if you like to read on your roof…

But a new study by Mindlab International at the University of Sussex seems to confirm that reading is the best, fastest way to calm frazzled nerves. The study, whose findings were published in an article in the UK version of Marie Claire, showed that just six minutes of reading could reduce stress by 68%. Many doctors believe this is because concentrating on a book places emphasis on the brain, taking the burden off of the muscles and the heart.

But the kicker is who sponsored the study: Galaxy Chocolate, a division of Mars, Inc., which is also best-known for its chocolate products. So what could possibly motivate a chocolate company to go shilling for books?

Galaxy is in the midst of their Irresistable Reads promotion, where they’re looking to give away 1 million books to customers who visit their website. In fact, the company already sponsors a book club, claiming that there’s no better way to pass the time than curling up with a good book, and of course, a bar of their chocolate.

Though I’d get a little worried that the combination of a relaxing read and decadent chocolate might lull me into a coma, as a staffer at JPS and a chocolate lover, I heartily approve of this campaign. Though I’m wondering if Galaxy gives out Hanukkah gelt…

-Julia