What is yin and yang?

Yin and Yang are critical concepts of Chinese philosophy and are also integrated into traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese architecture and many other branches of Chinese culture and society. These concepts are often represented by the Jin/Yang symbol, in which the same parts of black and white are proven in balance by their harmony. They are considered to be complementary, based on the same root or action and transforming each other, while working in opposition. They also seek balance and reach for a balanced state to be in peace with the universe as a total. Women are said to be "yin" associated with things like water and cold temperatures, while men are "yang" associated with fire and metal. Under Beliefs traditional Chinese medicine, each body should have the right balance with Yin and Yang, and it may be necessary to correct this balance with various practices, herbs and food. Balance is a critical aspect of effective practicing martial arts and experienced practicing can use balanceVarious techniques, including meditation and monitoring traditional etiquette in matches and seizures.

Chinese philosophy students often integrate discussions about these two concepts into their analysis of philosophical questions and the need for balance is also seen in practices such as Feng Shui. According to the idea, everything in the universe has the opposite and things can always be divided into opposites. For example, fire and water are a test of opposites, which are also complementary. One can destroy the other, but both need oxygen to exist, and both are critically important for life on Earth.

Chinese philosophers have been discussing Yin and Yang for centuries. They are part of five movements or five elements that are also integrated into Chinese philosophy. These concepts have been explored from at least 1,000 BCE when written discussions about these issues began to appear, along with graphic illustrations and live debates on the nature of the universe.