bookmark_borderPursuit of pleasure

Partially nicked from yesterday’s Independent.

According to Michael Flocker’s The Hedonism Handbook there are 10 signs you’re in too deep:

  1. You no longer remember anyone’s phone number because they’re all in your mobile
  2. You e-mail people who are seated within 20ft of you
  3. You make itineraries for your holidays
  4. The idea of a full week without internet access fills you with terror
  5. You are bored if the television isn’t on
  6. You have to watch the news every day, just to be sure the world isn’t ending
  7. You regularly watch sitcoms that you have seen countless times before
  8. You are unable to sit still and think in silence
  9. Your conversation regularly revolves around the lives of others instead of your own
  10. You buy your shoes because they match your iPod

I have to take issue with some of these.

Personally a full week without internet access is a relief sometimes, but doesn’t fill me with terror (#4). I am usually bored when the television is ON and get up to do something else (#5) (and how does this sit with #7?). I watch the news so I know what is going on in the world, not so I know the world is going on (#6), and what is with #10? Does ANYONE do that?

Now he also has some advice, namely 10 ways to unleash your inner hedonist:

  1. Find a park bench, sit down and observe life
  2. Lie in a hammock and stare at the stars
  3. Bob in the ocean
  4. Go for a walk without direction
  5. Read a book in complete silence
  6. Take a nap in the sun
  7. Take a bath by candlelight
  8. Sleep until you can sleep no more
  9. Extend foreplay
  10. Watch Swedish cinema

Now, I agree with some of these but still have to take issue. “Watch Swedish cinema” WHY?

Personally I’m happy curled up with a good book and no interruptions, but a streetside cafe and a good coffee is also favoured source of relaxation. People watching is always fascinating.

What methods do you employ when you are having a little “ME” time?