In healthy relationships, there is balance in most things. Each partner feels equally valued by the other. Each partner believes themselves to be valued above all others. Neither partner does harm to the other - physically, emotionally, or spiritually.
Sophrosyne is defined as a healthy state of mind, characterized by self-control, moderation, and a deep awareness of one's true self, and resulting in true happiness. Typically, one must achieve sophrosyne before one can successfully engage in a healthy relationship. Two unbalanced people, each void of self-awareness, will not find moderation in their connection.
As humans, the twin pressures of biological urges and societal expectations propel us towards the doom of inappropriate relationships. Each of us must resist this pull and use our energy instead to fully develop sophrosyne in ourselves. Once refined, we will automatically find ourselves unattracted to anyone lacking the same.
Patience towards self. Moderation in all things. Knowing happiness can be achieved with or without a partner. Creating joyful moments for ourselves. Taking extravagant care of ourselves. Feeding our bodies with offerings as for a temple. Believing we are worthy. Resisting those people and things that would badly upset our balance. Accepting into our inner sanctum only those people who have the ability to help us maintain balance and calm.
Sophrosyne.
