Page:Fielding - Sex and the Love Life.pdf/151

logical analysis. And, finally, let us recur to the paragraph on humor: "Do not take yourself so seriously that all sense of proportion is lost." The contacts of life are innumerable and very complex. If one can see it in that light, the irrationality of the policy of resolving the major features of the universe down to a destructive reaction between oneself and the person one is jealous about, becomes self-evident.

The question of the frequency of the sexual relations is a pertinent one, as it involves the matter of health and wellbeing of both parties. It, of course, cannot be answered in a specific manner covering all cases, because there are so many factors to be considered. There are differences in age, vitality, temperament, health, mental and physical disposition, etc. Sexual indulgence that would be quite normal for one person, therefore, may be excessive or inadequate for another.

We can speak helpfully, however, in a general way, and depend upon our commonsense and insight into the sexual question to guide us further.

Normally constituted persons at the height of their sexual powers, it is generally agreed, should engage in intercourse not oftener than twice a week. Many persons of average vitality may think they can safely exceed this limitation, but it is always best to avoid the possibility of excesses. Conservative sexual habits are a desirable and safe policy.

Furthermore, sexual congress when preceded by the love-play and wooing which has been stressed, will be found much more satisfying and the period between may be longer than if the act is undertaken in a perfunctory manner—that is, merely as a means of achieving a physical climax.