Eoin Finn on the art of helping people connect with each other and the Earth.
Molly Berkemeier | October/November 2011 Issue
 
 
Eoin Finn is the author of the book Blissology, in which he describes the art of tuning into the force that makes people feel connected with each other and with the earth. Hammocks are essential.
What is “blissology”?

“I’m inspired by the legacy of Joseph Campbell. There’s a force that connects all people and brings us together. In modern times, we need to find a new way to express this. Old theories don’t necessarily work for modern people. I’m trying to get people to answer the question of where they exist on the scale between selfishness and love.”
Where do hammocks come into it?

“The hammock allows you to feel content and relaxed, and it allows you to slow down, which is the first step toward allowing you to think about what the bigger mission is.”
The bigger mission?

“If we’re not to make a total mess of the planet and our bodies, people need to take time to ask themselves how much of their days are spent in “hammock” mode and how much are spent in “conquest” mode. I’m not saying we have to get rid of economics, selfishness and individualism, but we need more balance.”
Aren’t hammocks just for holidays?

“[Hammocks are for] anyone who is caught up in the Western idea of life as economics and selfishness. It’s a social experiment and an art installation. We’ve put them up in business districts of cities and everything that is important as a cultural value starts to creep back. People start creating art, talking to each other and looking at nature. A lot of little villages spontaneously spring up. It’s a great model for the way communities should be.”
So you have a hammock at home?

“I definitely practice what I teach. I live on Vancouver Island, so I sit in my hammock every day, watching the eagles and whales, listening to the birds and waves. I even take a hammock with me when I travel. I can put it up in three minutes.”
Photo: Mark Fischer via Flickr