When people get too antsy about others ascribing a "purpose" to an activity, I think it comes down to a refusal to see it in layers.
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If someone exercises to get slim, that may be less sophisticated than exercising for self-mastery or acceptance, but it *is* utilitarian.
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I find meditating for improved efficiency or stress-reduction to be a bit perverse, but if that's your thing more power to you.
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The idea isn't that every purpose is equally meritorious. But if you have a clear purpose in mind, that's generally good enough.