Body Image, Connection, and Intimacy

In 'Pleasure Activism,' Adrienne Maree Brown challenges traditional notions of activism by arguing that pleasure and joy are central to social justice and personal liberation. The book draws on Black feminist traditions and includes essays, reflections, and contributions from various feminist thinkers such as Audre Lorde, Octavia Butler, and Sonya Renee Taylor. It covers a wide range of topics including sex work, climate change, race, gender, and the politics of pleasure. Brown advocates for a mindset shift in activism, suggesting that feeling good is not frivolous but essential for collective liberation and personal fulfillment.

In 'Come as You Are', Emily Nagoski and Blanca González Villegas delve into the latest scientific research on human sexuality, offering insights and practical advice to improve sexual well-being. The book addresses various aspects of sex, including desire, arousal, and the complexities of sexual response, aiming to help readers understand and enhance their sexual experiences.

In this book, Brené Brown shares her research on the power of wholehearted living, a way of engaging with the world from a place of worthiness. She outlines ten guideposts to help readers cultivate courage, compassion, and connection. Brown emphasizes the importance of recognizing and overcoming shame, fear, and vulnerability, and instead embracing authenticity and self-love. The book is designed to help readers move away from perfectionism and towards a more authentic and fulfilling life.

In this book, Sonya Renee Taylor invites readers to reconnect with the radical origins of their minds and bodies and celebrate their collective strength. Taylor argues that body shame and oppression are interconnected with various forms of marginalization such as racism, homophobia, and sexism, which she terms 'body terrorism. ' The book emphasizes the need to acknowledge and challenge internalized body shame and societal norms, promoting radical self-love as a foundational tool for social justice and global transformation. It includes personal anecdotes, discussion questions, and reflective prompts to help readers embark on a journey of self-love and social change.