Yin- Yang Theory

In the Taoists perspective, all the things in nature are the results of the opposition and complementation of yin and yang which are manifestations of Qi, in other words, the energy. Therefore, all the things could only be real if they are in relation to something else. This means that everything that it is real can be described and explained with the yin and yang theory (Ody 16).

 

Basic characteristics of Ying & Yang (Sacred Lotus Organization):

 

• Ying represents the passive energy

 

• Yang represents the active energy

 

• Ying and yang are interdependent:

 

 Ying and yang cannot exist without each other. In Chinese medicine, it is believed that the body has its internal balance of yin and yang. Therefore, if there is a problem with the body which can either be an illness problem or an emotional problem, it means that there is a deficiency or abundance of either yin or yang. Thus, in Chinese medicine practitioners’ objective is to determine what is causing the imbalance in order to return the wellness and harmony to the body with different Chinese methods such as acupuncture, herbal remedies, cupping etc.  However, the person has to reach balance not only by these methods, but by changing their lifestyle into a better and healthier one (Sacred Lotus Organization).

 

• Ying and yang are always changing:

 

Yin and yang cannot always be in perfect balance because they are always moving, changing, and adjusting each other in order to have a mutual consumption and support. This means that yin and yang have a dynamic balance. This dynamic balance can perfectly be seen in the yin and yang symbol. Sometimes yin can be greater than yang when you are angry, and yang can be greater than yin when you are sad (Sheng 2005).

 

• Yin and yang transformation:

 

Thanks to the yin and yang balance, they both can transform into each other. For example, happiness could become sadness, love could become hate, rain could become the sunshine. There are many examples where this yin-yang transformation happens (Sheng 2005).

 

In conclusion, when yin and yang, aspects of the energy (Qi), are in harmony there is wellbeing and health.