You probably see an image before you when you think of the yin-yang symbol . But what do these symbols (Yin & Yang) really mean? You cannot see them separately because together they create balance. Take a closer look at the symbol. The yin-yang symbol is a circle composed of a shadow side (yin) and a lighter white side (yang). The black part with the white ball represents yin and feminine energy. Opposite that, you see the white part with a black ball that represents yang and male energy. Together they form the yin-yang symbol which means attraction between opposing energies. When both energies complement each other, a balance is created. Read more about this beautiful symbol below.

Yin and Yang

Yin & yang are also seen in nature

When you look at the first meaning of the yin-yang symbol in this way, they are opposite in nature. Yet the components of the symbol complement each other well. Something is never quite ying or yang and there is always movement. Indeed, without one, the other cannot continue to exist. This is also called the dualistic principle and we also see it in nature. Everything in nature is traceable to the yin-yang symbol. Indeed, all kinds of natural phenomena require both energies. If we zoom in on the seasonal transitions, winter represents yin and summer yang. In the winter, nature is more relaxed and summer stands for activity and energy. 

Yin and Yang

Looking for the balance

In addition to nature having yin and yang characteristics, so do you. For example, traits of yin are tenacious and receptive, and examples of traits of yang are goal-oriented and mobile. It is important to find a balance between yin and yang that feels right for you. If you are in yang energy for too long, this can lead to an imbalance. You are then very focused on achieving goals and performing. Of course there is nothing wrong with working hard, but you also need yin energy to recharge. For example, go into nature or take a break in some other way. Just like nature, sometimes you also need a break.

Yin and Yang

Yoga and yin & yang

To find the balance between yin & yang, yoga may well help you. By doing balance exercises you learn to find the balance between body and mind. I personally notice when I'm in my head a lot my balance is a lot less. That is a good check-in for me that I need a little more energy from yin. So yoga is actually a kind of mirror for how you feel. Being on the yoga mat is a great time to take a moment to reflect on the balance of yin & yang in your life. Looking for a nice slow fashion yoga set? Take a look at our yoga clothing collection.

Sources:

https://www.bedrock.nl/yin-yang-symbolen-betekenis/
https://vandelang.nl/images/pdf/MAS001_30_TCM.pdf
https://www.acupunctuur.nl/pages/yin-en-yang
https://krachtvankruiden.nl/blogs/lichaam-en-geest/yin-en-yang-harmonie-in-lichaam-en-geest

Anna Sophie Slingerland