Philosophy of Duality
Much of Chinese philosophy is based on the core concept of duality. Let me explain: Imagine the universe before creation. It’s not easy to do. Every concept we have is based on what is, or what could be. But what about a time before all that? Even the word time would be incorrect because that does not exist yet either. It’s a lot like how modern scientists try to explain what was, before the big bang. We can’t conceive of this because we only know what is. The closest we can come is to compare something to nothing. But even this does not explain what came before, because at that stage, neither “something”, nor “nothing” existed. Luckily, we can use words like “something” and “nothing” to explain what came next. This is the duality we see in the known universe.
Sunny Side/Shady Side
The Chinese characters for yin and yang are of a shady side of a mountain, and a sunny side, respectively. We use yin and yang to describe relative qualities. For example, yin is cooler, darker, more substantial, and more still. Yang is warmer, brighter, more diffuse, and active. We can compare things as yin and yang for many qualities, but their relationships always have certain qualities. We can look at the TaiJi Symbol to see this relationship.
Relationship Between Yin and Yang
First - the yin/yang circle encompasses all that is. Second - the two sides are equal, they form a balance. Neither is more important than the other. Third - all things yin and yang are constantly moving, developing, and changing. Fourth - they consume one another. A lot of yangs will start to gobble yin, and vice versa. Fifth - they support each other, the substance of yin supports the energy of yang. Yang gives vitality to Yin. Sixth - they transform into one another. And Seventh - each contains the seed for the other. That’s the little dot. Though yin and yang appear separate, they are intricately connected.
Balance
The balance between yin and yang is inherent in the universe. In all things big and small. It is a dynamic balance, with an ebb and flow like the tides. But from the big picture perspective, a balance. That includes
the bodies of us humans. The dance between yin and yang occurs constantly within us. Sometimes it gets knocked off, a little too far towards one or the other, towards yin or yang. But with interventions like acupuncture and herbal medicine, we can help get things back within good proportions. Through an overall healthy lifestyle, we can avoid a lot of potential health issues that might throw off this balance.
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