Synopsis
This concept of equal balance between negative and positive elements is of course contradictory to most existing fundamentals where good is always sought after in its complete form.
The Basics
The yin and yang concept however advocates the necessity of having both elements present to encompass an idea balance.
Relating it to a simpler understanding of hot and cold, where neither extremes are desirable but a combination of both, produces the warmth desired.
Other basic ways of explaining yin and yang are, yin being soft and yang being hard, yin being stillness and yang being movement, yin being the sun and yang being the moon, yin being day and yang being night and so on.
The cycle repeats itself. Where one leaves off the other begins and vice versa. This opposite attracts and binds well concept is reflected in many ancient Chinese sciences and philosophies.
Traditional Chinese medicine, Chinese martial arts, exercises are just a few that follow this concept.
A more romanticized description of yin and yang use the sunlight over a mountain scene. It is explained as when the dark side of the mountain changes into a brightly lit up side, this simultaneous movement that seems to “melt” into each other is depictured as yin and yang infused and moving comfortably to accommodate each change harmoniously.
The most popular pictorial display of yin and yang is the two tadpole like drawings that imply the uninterrupted cycle of each flowing into the other in harmony.
The colors used are also significant in its choice, which are black and white. Two very distinct and contrasting shades.
