What is yin yang?

The concept of Yin and Yang (陰陽/阴阳 yīnyáng) is a fundamental concept in Chinese philosophy and culture, generally understood to represent the interconnectedness and interdependence of seemingly opposite forces.

• Duality and Complementarity: Yin and Yang aren't simply opposing forces, but rather complementary ones. They exist in relation to each other, and neither can exist without the other. Darkness (yin) cannot exist without the potential for light (yang), and vice versa.

• Not Absolute: Yin and Yang are not absolute categories. Something can be relatively yin or yang depending on the context.

• Dynamic Equilibrium: The interaction between yin and yang creates a dynamic equilibrium. There is a constant flow and change as each force waxes and wanes. This is often depicted as the familiar Taijitu symbol, which shows a circle divided into swirling black and white halves.

• The Taijitu Symbol: The Taijitu (太極圖/太极图 tàijítú) symbol, often referred to as the yin-yang symbol, visually represents this dynamic interplay. The black (yin) contains a white dot, and the white (yang) contains a black dot. This symbolizes that within each force lies the seed of its opposite.

• Associations: Yin is typically associated with qualities like darkness, passivity, coolness, femininity, the earth, and the moon. Yang is associated with light, activity, heat, masculinity, heaven, and the sun.

• Applications: The principles of Yin and Yang are applied in various aspects of Chinese culture, including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), martial arts, Feng Shui, and I Ching divination. In TCM, maintaining balance between yin and yang is crucial for health.