A gerund is a noun made from a verb by adding "-ing." The gerund form of the verb "read" is "reading." You can use a gerund as the subject, the complement, or the object of a sentence.
Examples:
1. Reading helps you learn English. ( subject of sentence )
2. Her favorite hobby is reading. ( complement of sentence )
3. I enjoy reading. ( object of sentence )

Gerunds can be made negative by adding "not."
Examples:
1. He enjoys not working.
2. The best thing for your health is not smoking.