Summer is a time for relaxation, adventure, and reconnecting with your partner or yourself. It’s also a perfect time to deepen your understanding of sexuality through shared reading. Reading about sexuality can not only improve your self-understanding but also enhance your sex life. Here are some book recommendations that can help both couples and singles along the way.

Book Recommendations

1. "Come as You Are" by Emily Nagoski

• Description: This scientifically-based book helps persons better understand their sexuality by exploring how various factors affect sexual desire.

• Why read: This book can help couples and singles gain a deeper understanding of sexual desire and how to support and encourage themselves or their partners. It offers insights that can improve communication and intimacy in relationships.

2. "Mating in Captivity" by Esther Perel

• Description: Perel explores the tension between the need for security and desire in long-term relationships, offering insights on rekindling passion.

• Why read: The book provides valuable perspectives on how couples can find a balance between intimacy and independence, leading to a deeper and more passionate relationship. Singles can also benefit from these insights by preparing for future relationships.

3. "The Five Love Languages" by Gary Chapman

• Description: Chapman explains the five different ways people give and receive love, which can help couples better understand and communicate with each other.

• Why read: Understanding and speaking each other’s love languages can strengthen both emotional and sexual intimacy in a relationship. Singles can also learn more about their own love language and use this knowledge for future relationships.

4. "The Ethical Slut" by Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton

• Description: A guide to living and loving freely and ethically within non-monogamous relationships, focusing on communication and consent.

• Why read: This book is an excellent resource for couples exploring open relationships or improving their communication and understanding of sexuality and boundaries. Singles can also benefit from the book’s insights to navigate their own sexual and romantic adventures.

5. "Becoming Cliterate" by Dr. Laurie Mintz

• Description: Mintz focuses on increasing the understanding of female pleasure and bridging the orgasm gap between genders.

• Why read: This book is essential reading for both persons who want to improve their sexual satisfaction and understanding of female sexuality. Singles can use this knowledge to understand better and enjoy their own bodies and future sexual experiences.

How to Use Summer Reading to Increase Intimacy

Shared reading time: Set aside time each day or week to read together with your partner or for yourself. Discuss what you have read and how it relates to your own relationship or personal experiences.

Open conversations: Use the book’s content as a starting point to discuss your desires, fantasies, and boundaries, whether you are in a relationship or single.

Practical exercises: Many books contain exercises or activities. Try these together with your partner or on your own to directly apply what you have learned.

Reflection and sharing: Share your thoughts and reflections with your partner or write them down for yourself. How has the reading affected your view on sex and intimacy?

Investing time in improving your sexual relationship through shared reading can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. By reading these books, both couples and singles can gain new insights, improve their communication, and deepen their intimacy. Choose one of the recommended books and start your journey towards a deeper and more intimate understanding of sexuality today.