“Temperance is moderation in bodily pleasures; excess is profligacy, deficiency is insensibility.”
— Aristotle, Nicomachean Ethics, Book II, Chapter 7
🔍 Core Idea
Temperance is your body’s smart thermostat — it maintains 72°F balance between frozen repression (❄️) and burning excess (🔥). Like budgeting 80% nutrients and 20% treats, ethical self-control lets you savor life without crashing.
❗ Why This Matters Today
🍟 Junk Food Economics
Devour fries daily → taste buds numb → require saltier snacks 🚫
Follow 80/20 rule → enjoy fries weekly → rediscover natural flavors ✅
🎮 Gaming Moderation Gym
Play 6hrs straight → hands cramp + grades drop 🚫
Limit to 1hr/day → unlock focus for sports/studies ✅
🧘 Sensory Reset Protocol
Binge Netflix nightly → emotional numbness 🚫
Watch 2 episodes → journal reflections → awaken mindful joy ✅
🚀 Action Steps
- Thermostat Tracker
Use AnyList app to log:
“Today’s pleasure ratio: ______% nourishing (veggies/sleep) vs ______% indulgence” - Profligacy Alarm
Set 3 phone alerts:
“Is this snack/scroll/splurge 80% wise or 120% reckless?” - Sensory Detox Challenge
- Week 1: Delete 3 excess apps / Cut 3 sugary snacks
- Week 2: Add 3 mindful rituals (herbal tea baths / park soundwalks)