Partially nicked from yesterday’s Independent.
According to Michael Flocker’s The Hedonism Handbook there are 10 signs you’re in too deep:
- You no longer remember anyone’s phone number because they’re all in your mobile
- You e-mail people who are seated within 20ft of you
- You make itineraries for your holidays
- The idea of a full week without internet access fills you with terror
- You are bored if the television isn’t on
- You have to watch the news every day, just to be sure the world isn’t ending
- You regularly watch sitcoms that you have seen countless times before
- You are unable to sit still and think in silence
- Your conversation regularly revolves around the lives of others instead of your own
- 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:
- Find a park bench, sit down and observe life
- Lie in a hammock and stare at the stars
- Bob in the ocean
- Go for a walk without direction
- Read a book in complete silence
- Take a nap in the sun
- Take a bath by candlelight
- Sleep until you can sleep no more
- Extend foreplay
- 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?