The Benefits of a Balanced Summer Reading List

Summer is a season of renewal. The sun stays out longer, the iced coffee tastes better, and there’s a unique kind of peace that comes from the rustle of turning pages poolside, beachside, or even just on your backyard lounger. Whether you're a working woman carving out a few precious minutes after dinner, a retiree with long mornings to yourself, or somewhere in between, summer is the perfect time to dive into a good book.

But summer reading is more than just a guilty pleasure or a way to pass the time during vacations. Reading—especially the kind that both entertains and informs—can be a game changer for your mental health. And creating a thoughtful, personalized reading list might just be the self-care habit you didn’t know you needed.

The Mental Health Benefits of Reading 

Stress Reduction

When you immerse yourself in a good book, your mind escapes the constant buzz of daily life—work deadlines, family responsibilities, social media notifications. Research from the University of Sussex shows that reading can reduce stress by up to 68%, more than listening to music or taking a walk. That’s right—getting lost in a compelling narrative helps lower your heart rate and ease muscle tension.

Mental Stimulation and Cognitive Preservation

Books that make you think—whether it’s a historical biography, a science-based self-help guide, or a twisty mystery—keep your brain engaged. Regular mental stimulation has been linked to a reduced risk of cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease. Think of it as a workout for your brain—minus the sweaty gym clothes.

Empathy and Emotional Intelligence

When you read fiction, you step into someone else’s shoes. You experience their joy, sorrow, fear, and triumphs. This improves emotional intelligence and empathy—skills that deepen your relationships and help you navigate your own emotions more effectively.

Improved Sleep

If you swap your evening screen time for a few chapters of a book, your brain will thank you. Blue light from phones and tablets disrupts melatonin production, while reading a physical book helps signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

Mood Boosting and Sense of Accomplishment

Finishing a book (or even a chapter!) brings a sense of satisfaction. For women juggling many roles—mother, partner, caregiver, employee, friend—completing something just for yourself can be incredibly rewarding.

How to Build a Balanced Summer Reading List 

A truly satisfying summer reading list should be like a well-balanced meal. You want a little bit of indulgence, a good helping of substance, and maybe a few surprises to keep things interesting. Here’s a formula to help you create your own:

One Book That Teaches You Something New 

Try a non-fiction book that aligns with your interests: health, psychology, travel, history, or even a memoir. This adds depth to your reading list and helps you grow.

Recommendation: “Maybe You Should Talk to Someone” by Lori Gottlieb – A therapist chronicles her experience in therapy, revealing both vulnerability and insight in a warm, witty tone.

One Uplifting Fiction Novel

Choose something light but meaningful. This should be your go-to for beach days or Sunday afternoons.

Recommendation: “Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine” by Gail Honeyman – A heartwarming, quirky tale about loneliness, friendship, and learning to connect with others.

One Page-Turner 

Whether it’s a thriller, mystery, or fast-paced drama, pick something that keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Recommendation: “The Last Thing He Told Me” by Laura Dave – A gripping story of a woman unraveling the mystery behind her husband’s sudden disappearance.

One Classic You’ve Been Meaning to Read

Now’s the time. Choose a title you’ve always heard about but never cracked open. It’s satisfying to check one of these off your bucket list.

Recommendation: “Their Eyes Were Watching God” by Zora Neale Hurston – A beautifully written story about self-discovery and resilience, with themes that are just as relevant today.

One Book That Supports Your Mental or Physical Wellness 

Include something that encourages reflection, self-care, or personal growth.

Recommendation: “The Gifts of Imperfection” by Brené Brown – A guide to embracing your true self and letting go of unrealistic expectations.

One Fun, Feel-Good Book

This is the literary equivalent of a cold drink on a hot day. Humor, love stories, travel adventures—something that just makes you smile.

Recommendation: “The Rosie Project” by Graeme Simsion – A charming romantic comedy with a lovable narrator and plenty of laugh-out-loud moments.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Summer Reading 

Set the Mood: Make reading an experience. Light a candle, pour a glass of iced tea or wine, curl up with a blanket (yes, even in summer—thank you, air conditioning), and enjoy the moment.

Create a Reading Nook: Designate a cozy spot for reading. Whether it’s a hammock, a shaded patio chair, or your side of the bed, having a regular spot helps you associate that place with relaxation and joy.

Join a Book Club (Online or In-Person): Sharing what you read enhances your understanding and gives you a sense of connection. Look for groups that align with your reading style—some even focus on women’s mental health or personal growth.

Don’t Be Afraid to Abandon a Book: Life’s too short to trudge through a story you’re not enjoying. Give it a fair shot—say, 50 pages—but if it’s not clicking, move on.

Mix Formats: Audiobooks are great for walks, drives, or while doing chores. E-books are handy for travel. Physical books feel the most nostalgic and relaxing. Use whatever format works for your life.

A Reading Habit is a Self-Care Habit 

When you commit to regular reading, you’re not just indulging in entertainment. You’re investing in your mental well-being. Reading helps quiet the noise of the outside world, brings your attention into the present, and gives your brain space to rest, explore, and grow.

For many women, summer is often a blur of busyness—vacations, family obligations, garden maintenance, career demands. But carving out space for stories, wisdom, and laughter is an act of self-love. And unlike many wellness routines, it requires no gym membership, no complicated instructions, and no expensive gear.

Just a book. And a few quiet moments that are entirely your own.

So this summer, let your reading list be both your escape and your compass. Let it remind you who you are, teach you new things, and wrap you in the comforting knowledge that stories—especially the right ones—can heal, uplift, and transform.

Happy reading.