Let's be honest: intimacy goes way beyond candlelit dinners and roses (which we do love!). But truly, true intimacy and connection begins with... yourself! Your relationship with yourself, your body, and your desire. A touch of literary inspiration is the best wingman (or wingwoman!) along the way. Alone or with a partner, we have compiled a list of books you will say "why didn't I read this sooner? 📚✨
1. “Come as You Are” by Emily Nagoski
If you haven't heard of this powerhouse book yet, here is your chance to hop on the bandwagon. Emily Nagoski introduces science about sexuality in a way that is mind-blowing and enjoyable. "Come as You Are," talks about the art of desire and arousal, while also diffusing myths and underscoring the importance of individuality. A combination of research studies and testimonies, along with actionable insights makes this a great read for those wanting to deepen their relationship with themself, and a partner. You will never look at your body the same after reading this.
2. “The Erotic Mind” by Jack Morin
For anyone interested in the psychology of desire, your next read is The Erotic Mind. Jack Morin explains the role our fantasies play in our realities, and that through understanding how our minds and internal mechanisms operate, we can have better relationships. Morin's writing is not only compelling, but it is also eye-opening, and ultimately the book asks readers to embrace their erotic selves. This book is less about pleasure and more about the role of the mind functions to create intimate transformative experiences. The book brings together art and science with a touch of playful transgression.
3. “Mating in Captivity” by Esther Perel
Popular today as the queen of modern day relationships, Esther Perel looked at the complexity of long-term relationships in her book, Mating in Captivity. Internally, Perel disrupts our preconceived understanding of desire and intimacy and her proposed solution is to find ways to sustain both desire and intimacy over periods of time in relations.Her thoughtful writing synthesizes compassion, safety, and adventure. This book is a must for couples who are ready to explore the tension between intimacy and being a separate self within committed relationships. Get ready to rework what intimacy means for us in contemporary society!
4. “Sex for One: The Joy of Self-loving” by Betty Dodson
Self-love serves as the basis for all close relationships and in Betty Dodson's classic "Sex for One," the goal of the book is to celebrate your own body and your own pleasure. In Dodson's warm, funny tone, this book then becomes a mentor or friend that helps you understand what your needs and desires are when it comes to your own sexuality. Dodson primarily uses masturbation as a means of exploring the things that bring you joy, and helps you find that joy without any sense of shame or judgment. And let's face it, this is a necessary skill for being a great partner; the better lover you are for yourself, the better lover you can be for your partner!.
5. “The Guide to Getting It On!” by Paul Joannides
Having said that, if you are looking for something a little more explicit, or just fun to read, "The Guide to Getting It On!" is a perennial favorite for a raw, no-holds-barred manual on intimacy. Paul Joannides' book does an excellent job of providing a comprehensive reference around sexuality, sex, and intimacy all while providing a comic book format filled with illustrations, humor, and a lot of good practical tips. The book offers an entertaining guide for the sexually adventurous as well as the newly initiated, a great source of ideas and a fun conversation starter leading to intimacy. The Guide to Getting It On! is informative, entertaining, a little cheeky, and just perfect for anyone who wishes to spice up their love life!
Wrap-Up: Ignite Your Intimate Journey
These books are more than just books—they are portals to learning about your body, celebrating your desires, and having the opportunity to connect deeper with yourself and your partner. At Sassiest Healthcare, we are all about breaking taboos and celebrating all forms of pleasure. So remove the fear of what the casual literature of your sex life may say, grab one (or all) of these books, get cozy, and have fun empowering yourself and igniting intimacy. Remember - with every page you turn you are step closer to being empowered and more passionate about yourself!
Ready to turn the page? Shop our Intimacy Essentials Collection and let your next chapter begin.💜
