Enchiridion 41: Not To Excess

"It is a mark of want of intellect, to spend much time in things relating to the body; as to be immoderate in exercises, in eating and drinking, and in the discharge of other animal functions. These things should be done incidentally and our main strength be applied to our reason." (Epictetus, Enchiridion 41)

I can't help but wonder what the background is to this statement. I've not read enough Stoic philosophy to get the full picture of the principle. One feature that seems clear (key word: "seems"--in my opinion) is that Epictetus is making a statement against Epicurianism.

In sweeping over-generalizations, permit me to explain what I do understand: Epicurianism held that "good" is whatever brings the most pleasure, so that which brings happiness is what is worth pursuing. "Do what you like" or "do your own thing" as long as it does not interfere with the happiness of someone else. Stoicism, on the other hand, advocates virtue over physical happiness. Virtue is to be pursued for to be virtuous is to be happy.

Perhaps Epictetus might be saying is: you are more than the body. Exercise, but not in excess; eat and drink, but not in excess; enjoy your . . . uh . . . bodily discharges (in all forms), but not in excess. Apply strength to reason, where you really reside.