Most people have heard of Yin and Yang and may recognise the classic diagram
What does Yin Yang mean ?
The Yin Yang diagram is often used as a symbol of New Age, Hippy, Peace or Holistic Health. But where does it come from ?
Yin Yang is a large part of ancient Chinese philosophy, and is an important feature of Taoism. It is also discussed in Confucianism. The theory of Yin Yang dates back thousands of years.
Yin Yang translates as “Bright Black” or “Light Dark”. As you can see it is half bright or white and half black. Signifying a balanced two halves. Many books and scripts have been written on Yin Yang theory dating back many years. It is not possible to expand on the theory in a single article and much of it is beyond simple understanding without a fair amount of reading.
The two halves are considered as equal and opposite are
- Male and Female
- Black and White
- Forward and Back
- Night and Day
- Chaos and Calm
- Hot and Cold
- Peace and War
- Heaven and Earth
Literature to provide a greater understanding is the I Ching translated as the “Book of Changes” an acient text that dates back several thousand years. There is also the Tao Te Ching, dating back several thousand years, a fundamental text for both philosophical and religious Taoism which also influenced Buddhism and Confusianism. These books have been rewritten and simplified many times for todays enjoyment.
Here is a useful link I have come across with a more in depth description of Yin Yang Wu Wei Wisdom
Yin Yang and the Martial Arts
Most Martial Art clubs and organisations have a logo. Many of these logos are based on the Yin Yang symbol.
This is because most traditional Martial Arts originate from a Chinese or oriental lineage. The Yin Yang theory in Martial Arts incorporates the equal forces that occur during Martial Arts practice. Similar to what would be considered as a Hard or Soft or Internal and External Martial Art. See my article on Internal and External Martial Arts.
Mentioned above are the two halves of Yin Yang. Here is what can be considered as the two halves in Martial Arts
- Stillness and Movement
- Relaxation and Tension
- Defending and Attacking
- Downward and Upward Movement
- Forward and Backward movement
Tai Chi Chuan is an example where this theory is used in this very effective martial art, based on this principle of not resisting and using softness against hardness as in Yin and Yang.
For a further in depth view on Yin Yang this is an excellent explanation by Gwong Zau Kung Fu
Traditional Chinese Medicine
The Yin Yang theory also extends to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) such as acupuncture, acupressure and natural herbs. It also extends to using meditation and Tai Chi for their health benefits. This also involves related theories about Chi energy, the Meridians and the Five Elements.
Here is a very informative article on Traditional Chinese Medicine at WebMD.com
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