"هر چیزی که بیش از حد باشد با طبیعت مخالف است"

Our bodies and minds thrive on balance. When Aristotle said that over two thousand years ago, he was emphasizing a truth that’s still relevant today. Life has a natural rhythm, and when we push any aspect of it too far, we disrupt that harmony. This idea isn’t just about avoiding excesses but about seeking moderation in everything we do.

Think back to ancient Greece. Aristotle was deeply involved in observing the world and human behavior. People, even back then, tended to overindulge—whether it was food, alcohol, power, or even work. They struggled to find that sweet spot of moderation. Aristotle noticed that when people went to extremes, they often faced physical or moral decay. Pushing the limits of what’s natural leads to imbalance and, eventually, problems.

Take a modern example: social media. It’s great to connect with friends, stay updated, and even find inspiration. But imagine spending hours scrolling every day. Suddenly, what was a tool for connection becomes a source of stress and anxiety. You might start comparing your life to others, feeling inadequate, or even isolated despite being “connected.” The natural balance of social interaction gets skewed, leading to mental health issues.

So, Aristotle’s wisdom can be applied here. Limit your social media use. Maybe set a time limit on your apps or designate certain hours for checking your feeds. Sound simple? It is. But it’s also powerful. By practicing moderation, you’re aligning with your natural state—one that prioritizes real-world connections and mental well-being.

Let’s bring this closer to home with a relatable scenario. Picture this: you’ve just discovered a new hobby—let’s say gardening. You’re excited, so you spend every free moment researching plants, buying seeds, and digging in the soil. For a while, it’s fulfilling. But after weeks of late nights and early mornings in the garden, you’re exhausted. Your back hurts, you’re missing out on time with friends, and your other responsibilities are piling up. What started as a relaxing hobby has become a source of stress.

In this story, the lesson is clear. Had you balanced your gardening with rest and other activities, you’d still enjoy it without the negative effects. Moderation allows you to maintain your health and happiness.

Applying this to our daily lives involves a bit of self-awareness. When you find something you love, enjoy it—just don’t let it consume you. Whether it’s work, a hobby, or even a new TV show, take breaks and switch things up. It’s about maintaining a diverse set of activities that keep you grounded.

Remember, everything in excess disrupts our natural balance. It’s like trying to play a beautiful melody on a piano that’s out of tune. It’s the harmony, the balance that makes life’s song pleasant. So next time you find yourself diving deep into something, take a step back. Ask yourself if you’re keeping that natural rhythm. If not, adjust. It’s a simple yet profound way to live a healthier, happier life.