The theory of Yin and Yang is a Chinese philosophy that is based on the idea that everything in the universe is composed of two opposing but complementary forces known as Yin and Yang. Yin relates to the feminine, the dark, the passive and the cold, while the Yang refers to the masculine, the light, the active and the warm.

The idea is that these two forces must be in balance for them to operate correctly in the universe. In other words, the theory says that Yin and Yang are two opposing forces that complement each other, so they must be in balance to achieve a harmonious life.

This postulate has its roots in ancient China, specifically, in Taoist thought. In fact, the concept of Yin and Yang is first mentioned in the classic ” I Ching ” or “Book of Changes”. This text dates from the 8th century BC. C and contains philosophical wisdom and the divinatory practices of that culture.

The Yin-Yang symbolism is also known as the Tai Chi symbol and was invented in China around 600 years BC It is a circle divided into two halves by a curved and intertwined line. One half is black and represents the Yin side. While the other half is white and refers to Yang.

In the symbol, when the black and white parts intertwine, it makes reference to the harmonic balance between the two opposing forces . In addition, the small circles that are on each of the fringes mean that nothing is completely white or black and that nothing is absolute in the universe, as long as the two parts always coexist.

Although Ying and Yang form an integrated whole, they each have their own meaning. We explain to you below.

what is yin

The Yin symbol is associated with the following meanings:

• It represents feminine , passive and receptive energy.
• Relates to the night , darkness and the moon.
• It represents humility, coldness and tranquility.
• It relates to nature, such as valleys and rivers.
• It is linked to emotions and the subconscious .

what is yang

The Yang symbol is related to these meanings:

• It is associated with masculine , active and expansive energy.
• It has to do with the day , with the light and with the sun.
• It symbolizes heat , dryness and agitation.
• It has to do with mountains and rivers.
• It represents the mind and the conscious .

Bear in mind that Yin and Yang are complementary concepts, not opposites, and that both are necessary to achieve harmony in all things. In short, the symbolism of Yin and Yang represents paradox without absolutism, freedom without limits and how to be able to adapt to change.

For Taoism, the theory of Yin and Yang is based on the following fundamental principles:

• Complementarity : Yin and Yang complement each other and need each other to form a whole. Neither can exist without the other.
• Interconnection : Everything that exists in the universe is connected and affects the other party. Therefore, changing one part of the universe affects everything else.
• Mutability : All things are constantly evolving. Therefore, Yin and Yang transform into each other. A Yang state can become a Yin state and vice versa.
• Balance : The ultimate goal of Yin and Yang theory is to achieve a proper balance between Yin and Yang. Excess of one or the other can cause imbalance and illness, so they must always be in harmony. In this article we propose exercises to achieve emotional balance.
• Relationship of opposition : these elements oppose each other, but at the same time contain and complement each other. This oppositional relationship is what allows for change and development.

During the reign of the Yellow Emperor of China, about 2,000 years ago, the use of Yin and Yang was frequent in medicine at the time, which is reflected in the first Chinese book of medical sciences. This theory is still valid today, as in traditional Chinese medicine Yin and Yang are used to explain body processes and to diagnose and treat disease.

Those who practice Chinese medicine believe that an imbalance between Yin and Yang can cause illness , so they seek to restore the balance to heal the patient.

In addition, the theory of Yin and Yang is of great importance in the field of philosophy and religion, since, for example, Taoism considers it a fundamental part of its doctrine . In Chinese art, architecture and culture, it remains an essential part of social beliefs and customs, as well as training in some sports, such as martial arts.

In short, the Yin and Yang theory is widely accepted and applied in different social fields, as it is even used to represent and understand cycles and processes in agriculture , with the aim of maximizing crop yields.