Deep reading is hard in a world of notifications. The good news is that you can rebuild the habit with a small routine. You do not need hours, only a protected block and a few gentle rules.
Choose a physical place
Use one chair or corner for reading. Over time your body learns that this spot means reading. Add a warm lamp and put your phone in another room.
Set a small target
Begin with ten or fifteen pages, or twenty minutes, whichever is easier. Finishing a small target feels good and makes tomorrow easier.
Preview before you read
Look at the title, the headings and the first and last paragraphs. Knowing where the text is going helps you follow the argument and remember it.
Keep a pencil nearby
Underline sparingly and write short notes in the margin: a question, a doubt, a connection. Active reading is slower, but you keep far more.
Pause and say it back
At the end of each section, close your eyes for ten seconds and say in one sentence what you just read. If you cannot, read the section again. This simple check is a strong memory aid.
Choose gentle sound, or none
Many readers prefer silence. Others like quiet instrumental music with no words. If you try sound, keep it low and steady, and avoid anything you have to follow.
End with one line
When you finish, write one sentence about what you want to remember and where you stopped. Tomorrow you will start from that line instead of a blank page.
Deep reading is a skill that returns with practice. A calm place, a small target and a short note are enough to begin.