You must have come across the terms Yin and Yang, a number of times. They are the opposite sides of the same coin, it seems. Just like the opposing forces of nature, you can see them in action across the globe. It basically relates to the duality of nature. In Chinese medicine and therapies, Yin and Yang occupies primary position. You will be amazed to know, that these two aspects are a bit contradictory to ne another, but they also work together. They are always in a dynamic stage of balance. Take the example of heat and cold, fire and water, rain and sun, and so on. Yin is female energy and Yang is male energy. These two forces of nature work in tandem, just like the Indian Kundalini and Shiva Shakti.
Let us find out more about the same.
Yin and Yang – According to Chinese Principles
These are based on the Taoist principles, which is of the idea that two contradictory yet complementary forces exist in nature. You can classify all kinds of energies and forces into Yin and Yang. They always strive to attain a harmonious existence.
Just like Yin and Yang forces, every individual has unique traits and character. Moreover, the same exists in both forms. There are a few fundamental characteristics of Yin and Yang. They are:
- Symbolism of Yin – It mainly represents the grounded energy of the earth. Moreover, it is considered as receptive, dark, and cool in nature. It is also associated with female energy, as already described. Women are considered to be Yin in nature. It is mainly associated with the 28-day cycle of menstruation, or the moon cycle. Tian Gui mainly starts the process of menstruation, so it is deeply connected with it. Moreover, it is responsible for the transformation of a girl to a woman. When Yin and Yang combine, a new life is created. Yin is considered wintery in nature, as well. So, that sets things straight. Some of the characters that you can connect with it, are contemplation, contraction, softness, stillness, and quiet.
- Symbolism of Yang – Yang energy is just opposite Yin energy. Moreover, it is considered to be fast-moving, very active, and loud in nature. The sun is one of the primary examples of Yang energy. Moreover, it is full of energy. Yang energy is mainly very warm in nature, and has the power to heat up the atmosphere. Yang is black in colour as opposed to Yin energy. Yang also happens to be an active force. Some of the symbolic characteristics of Yang energy are action, expansion, heat, growth, and movement.
These are the forces that help in the existence of various bodies, both human and celestial.
Yin and Yang are in a complementary relation, yet contradict one another. Here are a few scenarios that can arise, when both are not in harmony.
Yoga Yin And Yang Energies
It is based on Taoist Yoga, which is a combination of passive and active. You must be wondering, how such forces relate to the various kinds of yoga that we practice. To make matters simple for you, Yin Yoga is slower than Yang Yoga. Moreover, it is passive in nature. You have to hold the positions for a longer duration in Yin Yoga. However, Yang Yoga is a bit different than Yin Yoga. Yang Yoga is something, that you probably know as active yoga.
In that same context, it is evident that Hatha Yoga, Ashtanga Yoga and Vinyasa Yoga are all Yang yoga. You can blend the two forms of yoga, to get maximum benefits. Start the class with Yin yoga and then move to Yang yoga. Yin Yang Yoga is a style of yoga, that brings both styles together. If you want a balanced yoga practice, you must practice both Yin and Yang yoga.
Benefits of Yin Yang Yoga Explained
Yin Yoga
- Yin Yoga stimulates the meridians and brings in balance to every organ in the body.
- Moreover, it also tends to increase the flexibility.
- It is also very calming in nature, not just for the mind but for the body as well.
- It has the power to reduce the stress and anxiety as well.
- It works deeply on a cellular level.
- It can also prepare any practitioner for meditation.
Yang Yoga
- Yang yoga is strengthening in nature and gives a lot of power to the body.
- Moreover, it also increases the flexibility and circulation.
- You will feel a sudden boost of stamina, when you keep practicing it on a regular basis.
- It calms the mind, through synchronised movement.
- It also tends to remove the obstacles from the mind. The result is a proper flow of prana through the body.
So, you must have understood the various properties that make Yin and Yang different from one another. Both are the forces of nature, which exist in life and the surroundings. It is there in nature as well. The weather, the sun-moon, the time of the day, all point towards these energies. Beginners can also try Yin and Yang yoga. The reason being that the practice is moderate in nature. It is also great for improving the flexibility and resilience of the body. The poses are of moderate difficulty, and thus suitable for one and all.
Some of the poses, which you can consider as Yin Yang in nature are Child’s pose, Cat-Cow pose, Camel pose and Downward Facing Dog pose. So, you can do these in abundance to get the desired benefits.
