Temperance is a balance of all things that are beneficial to oneself. We are to practice moderation even with things that are good for us. Temperance is also abstaining from such things that are harmful, even though at first glance these things may seem advantageous. Temperance is putting into practice the power of will. The journey to optimum health cannot be fully attained without mastering self-control. Temperance is the art of mastering willpower.

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There are many addictions that are anxiously waiting to take over our lives. We just need to give it a slightly open door and it will invade our lives and it will take great effort to be rid of it than to welcome it in. Whatever the habit, whatever the addiction, whatever the vice, we are in control of what we allow and what we deny. Forming healthy habits may be a challenge, but once they are part of our everyday lifestyle, we will be protected from many downfalls.

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We are the architects of our own happiness. Happiness is not attained outside of self; it is created from within. Happiness can be achieved in poverty, catastrophes, loss, and even in solitude. Circumstances and environment do not dictate our happiness. Often people may say that if they reach a certain goal or make so much money or acquire certain materialistic goods, they will be happy. But this is a lie because happiness comes from within. So, we are to design and strategically customize our own happiness within ourselves. Our physical health, our mental health, and our spiritual health, all form a complete package that will bring us happiness or complete disappointment. Creating healthy habits will ensure that we will be proud of whom we are instead of being ashamed of who we are. We must decide what is good for us and what is not. Once we make those choices, we must stick to those choices by putting to practice the power of will. Self-control is not easy, but the rewards are glorious.

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Some recommendations of things to avoid would be the following:

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Alcohol – The body has no need for it. There are many who suggest that wine is beneficial with a meal. It is said that it may aid in the prevention of heart disease. Alcohol consumption in any form is a toxic substance in the human body. Solomon admonishes against it.

 

“It is not for kings, O Lemuel, it is not for kings to drink wine; nor for princes strong drink: Lest they drink, and forget the law, and pervert the judgment of any of the afflicted. Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more.” Proverbs 31: 4-7

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Tobacco – Cigarettes, cigars, pipes, chewable tobacco, vaporizers, patches, and all forms of tobacco delivery methods are harmful to the body. Non-tobacco substances such as Marijuana and many other addictive drugs and stimulants are also harmful to the body. We must abstain from these substances, they are unnatural substances that alter our senses and disrupt better judgment. Disease and poor health will follow with the persistent use of these substances.

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Caffeine – There are many beverages containing enormous amounts of caffeine. Caffeine is a drug. Like many drugs, caffeine is addictive. It stimulates the body and creates a craving. Many people claim they cannot function without it. Doctors say caffeine alleviates headaches. There are many claims of the positive benefits of caffeine, such as alertness, high energy, and mental clarity, but these benefits are temporary. It is a false sensation of well-being. Caffeine will cause insomnia, anxiety, incontinence, muscle breakdown, high blood pressure, increase risk of heart attacks, and many other detrimental health issues. Avoidance is the best course of action.

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There are many other foods and substances that should be avoided, but this is not an exhaustive list of everything that should be avoided so use common sense and do your own research.

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