The theory of Yin and Yang is a kind of world outlook. It holds that all things have two opposite aspects, which are both opposite and at the same time interdependent. This is a universal law of the material world. These two aspects are in opposition to each other but because one end of the spectrum cannot exist without the other they are interdependent.
InWestern culture, thedichotomyofgood and evilis often taken as aparadigmfor other dichotomies. InHegeliandialectics, dichotomies are linked toprogress. In Chinese philosophy, the paradigmatic dichotomy of Yin and Yang does not generally give preference or moral superiority to one side of the dichotomy, and dichotomies are linked tocyclicalprocesses rather than progress. Excessive yin or yang state is often viewed to be undesirable; however,Taoismoften values Yin above Yang[1], andConfucianismoften values Yang above Yin.
The ancient Chinese used water and fire to symbolize Yin and Yang; anything moving, hot, bright and hyperactive is Yang, and anything quiescent, cold, dim and hypoactive is Yin.
Yin and Yang are descriptions of complementary opposites rather than absolutes. Any Yin/Yangdichotomycan be viewed from another perspective. All forces innaturecan be seen as having yin and yang states, and the two are in movement rather than held in absolute stasis.
In terms of treatment, striking a balance between yin and yang is the most fundamental principle of clinical practice. Among the treatment based on this principle are sedating the excess and toning up the deficiency.
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