Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) adopts the vision of a material world in a state of perpetual motion. This is due to the movement of Yin and Yang, two elements that are both opposite and co-dependent. This theory is used to explain physiological imbalances as well as any pathological changes that may occur in the human body.
It is – along with the theory of the 5 elements – one of the fundamental theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Origin
This Taoist theory was developed during the time of Laozi, during the Warring States period (475 to 221 BC). The study of manifestations and movements observed in nature, as well as the position of Man on Earth, led to the discovery of a constant movement of two primordial forces of the Universe: Yin and Yang. Eastern philosophy uses this concept to explain the birth, growth, and decline of all things, including Man.
This system governs every binary form observed around us and in the world. Everything in nature and within us is composed of a form of duality: we have within us elements that are complementary and opposite at the same time.
Yin literally translates to "dark side of the mountain", and represents qualities such as darkness, cold, immobility. It is also the material aspect of a thing: physiological fluids are Yin.
Yang translates to "bright side of the mountain", and represents light, heat, and activity. It is the ethereal, immaterial aspect of a thing: energy is Yang.
Opposition and Complementarity
These forces thus represent two equal complements, integrated into a single whole, and are represented by a symbol of the Tao (inspiring the logo of this site). These opposing aspects, by opposing each other, are thereby linked and interdependent: in Yin there is a Yang aspect, and in Yang, a Yin aspect. To have a life balance between our Body and our Mind, as well as with our environment, regulating Yin and Yang energies is essential.
Well-being is only possible through this notion of balance.
Thus, according to this system, a Yin aspect corresponds to night, and a Yang aspect to day, hence 12 hours each alternately. When day declines, Yin appears, and as it progresses, dawn represents the appearance of Yang.
These two aspects are opposite but therefore complementary. One can only exist in relation to the existence of the other: we eat, we eliminate; we inhale, we exhale; we close our eyes, we open them; we are active, we rest; etc.
A Dynamic Balance
Every substance, every thing can be classified according to the particularities of these two aspects, which then help the practitioner to determine at a precise moment "what should be" and "what is".
The sky is Yang, the earth is Yin. Man is born, lives, and inevitably evolves within this permanent duality, whose poles he observes around him and within him. If one takes precedence over the other, one side is inevitably stifled by the other, and dysfunctions appear. To achieve this balance, one must constantly be on the demarcation line of the 2 fish, between Yin and Yang: this is called perpetual well-being, or Nirvana.
“Two opposing, but complementary aspects of the same thing”: we are all made up of this binary side.
The goal of TCM is to maintain, preserve, and bring us back to this balance, in an evolving, variable environment. We can achieve this state and lose it at any time… Due to internal, external, emotional, material factors.
The practitioner regulates Yin and Yang. Nothing else.
