In today’s hectic world, finding books that resonate with our innermost needs for empowerment, self-love, and healthy relationships is invaluable.
In this post, I have hand-picked a collection of compelling books that will inspire women over 40 to embrace their sexuality, build confidence, and encourage deeper relationships. I have also included a list of podcasts for times you aren’t able to read or just need additional motivation.
Section 1: Women over 40 Building Confidence and Self-empowerment
Badass Affirmations by Becca Anderson
Inspirational affirmations to boost self-worth and power.
Daring Greatly by Brené Brown
The transformative power of vulnerability in personal and professional life.
The Confidence Code by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
Unlocking the science and art of self-assurance for women.
You Are Not a Before Picture by Alex Light
Embracing body positivity and self-acceptance.
The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin
One woman’s journey to find happiness, and how you can too.
Good Vibes, Good Life by Vex King
Mastering the principles of positive thinking and self-love.
The Mountain is You by Brianna Wiest
Overcoming challenges and self-sabotage through emotional intelligence.
A Gentle Reminder by Bianca Sparacino
Gentle reminders and reflections to nurture your soul.
So Much To Unlearn by Amirah Morris
Unlearning societal norms to reclaim your truth.
Don’t Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen
Understanding the nature of thought and transforming your mindset.
Worthy by Jamie Kern-Lima
Embracing your inner worth and overcoming doubts.
Protect Your Peace by Trent Shelton
Practical advice on maintaining inner peace amidst life’s chaos.
What A Time To Be Alone by Chidera Eggerue
A motivational guide that empowers readers to embrace their solitude, cultivate self-love, and navigate the complexities of modern relationships.
Section 2: Enhancing Relationships For Women Over 40
The Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Understanding and expressing love in meaningful ways.
Want Me by Tracy Clark-Flory
A personal exploration of desire and what it means for relationships.
Getting The Sex You Want by Tammy Nelson, PhD
Embarking on sexual transformation within long-term relationships.
Urban Tantra by Barbara Carellas and Annie Sprinkle
Modern practices to deepen intimacy and sexual connection.
The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work by Jon Gottman and Nan Silver
Proven strategies for enhancing marital stability and happiness.
Hold Me Tight by Sue Johnson
Improving relationship bonds through the power of attachment.
Getting Past The Affair by Douglas Snyder, Donald Baucom, and Kristina Coop Gordon
Steps to healing and rebuilding trust after infidelity.
The Inner Work of Relationships by Mathew Micheletti
Cultivating mindful and conscious relationships.
Attached by Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
The science of adult attachment and how it affects your bonds.
The Shadow Work Journal by Keila Shaheen
A guide to exploring hidden parts of yourself to improve relationships.
Section 3: Navigating Life Transitions as Women Over 40
Goddesses Never Age by Christiane Northrup, M.D.
Embracing aging with confidence and vitality.
The Wisdom of Menopause by Christiane Northrup, M.D.
Navigating menopause with health and emotional well-being.
Feeding Your Demons by Tsultrim Allione
Transforming personal challenges into growth opportunities.
Transitions: Making Sense of Life’s Changes by William Bridges
A guide to understanding and managing the internal and emotional turmoil that comes with change, complete with practical advice.
Life Reimagined: The Science, Art, and Opportunity of Midlife by Barbara Bradley Hagerty
This book blends personal narratives with scientific research to explore how to navigate and thrive in midlife.
When Things Fall Apart: Heart Advice for Difficult Times by Pema Chodron
A spiritual guide filled with wisdom on how to face life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
The Gift of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You’re Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brené Brown
While not exclusively about transitions, this book provides powerful insights that can help during times of change by promoting self-acceptance and authenticity.
Section 4: Embracing Sexuality as Women Over 40
The Ethical Slut by Janet W. Hardy and Dossie Easton
An enlightening guide to consensual non-monogamy and embracing sexual freedom.
Better Sex Through Mindfulness by Lori A. Brotto, PhD
Practical exercises to enhance sexual well-being through mindfulness.
Sex for One by Betty Dodson, PhD
Empowering women to reclaim their sexuality through solo practice.
Tongue Tied by Stella Harris
A guide to effective sexual communication and overcoming barriers.
Becoming Cliterate by Laurie Mintz, PhD
Challenging the orgasm gap and advocating for sexual satisfaction.
Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski, PhD
Exploring the science of female sexuality and pleasure.
Shameless by Nadia Bolz-Weber
A bold look at sexuality and faith, aiming to remove shame.
The Complete Illustrated Kama Sutra by Lance Dane
A comprehensive guide to the ancient texts of the Kama Sutra, enriched with detailed illustrations and modern interpretations of its teachings on love and sexuality.
Sex Matters by Mona Charen
An insightful critique on modern feminism, exploring how it can reconnect with science, love, and common sense to better serve both women and men.
Section 5: Podcasts For Women Over 40
In today’s busy world, finding time to sit down and read can be challenging, especially for women over 40 juggling multiple responsibilities.
Podcasts offer a flexible and convenient way to gain motivation, inspiration, and insightful information, all while on the move.
Whether you’re commuting, exercising, or doing household chores, tuning into empowering podcasts can enrich your day and keep you motivated when reading isn’t an option.
The Midlife Whisperer Podcast
Hosted by Dr. Ellen Albertson, this podcast aims to help women over 40 transform their lives through interviews, insights, and inspiration on topics like health, self-love, and success.
The Confidence Chronicles
Hosted by Erika Cramer, this podcast discusses self-love, confidence, and overcoming life’s challenges.
Midlife Matters
Covers varied topics relevant to women over 40, including relationships, health, and personal growth.
The Pleasure Podcast
Naomi Sheldon and Anand Patel tackle topics around sexual health, pleasure, and intimacy, encouraging a healthy and positive view on sexuality.
Sex with Emily
Dr. Emily Morse offers frank, engaging discussions on sexual wellness, relationships, and intimacy, with a specific focus on empowering listeners at any age.
Final Thoughts: The Ultimate Book List For Women Over 40
Whether you are looking to deepen your understanding of sexuality, bolster your confidence, enhance your relationships, or navigate key life transitions, these books provide valuable insights and inspiration for women over 40. Check out these reads and empower yourself to live your best, most fulfilling life.
If you’re inspired by these empowering books and podcasts, don’t stop here! Take the first step towards creating a more confident and fulfilling life. Subscribe to our newsletter for more insightful book recommendations, podcasts, and articles tailored just for you.
Do you have a book or resource that has transformed your life or would benefit women over 40? Share it with us in the comments below! Let’s build a community of empowered women supporting and uplifting each other.
Very interesting list, I got to get myself some of these.
I’m glad you found the list interesting! I’m sure you’ll find some great additions to add to your collection.
These sound like some powerful and inspiring books for us women over 40. I’m glad you included several podcasts as these are great to listen to when I’m driving or just chilling out at home.
As someone in my early 40s, I love all these amazing book suggestions. I can’t wait to check out some I haven’t read yet.
Such an awesome list! I’m nearing 40 and a lot of these books have peaked my interest. I can’t wait to check some of these out. Thanks for the suggestions and recommendations
I could never have enough books. As a self proclaimed book worm, I’m happy to stumble upon your blog and book list.
Thank you for your kind words! As a fellow bookworm, I’m so happy to hear that you enjoyed my book list.
I love this list so much! I just turned 40 and while I have a few, there are so many that I need to add. Especially from the Navigating Life Transitions list