Yin Yang

The two concepts - Yin and Yang originate in ancient Chinese philosophy and metaphysics, which describe two opposing but complementary principles said to be found in all objects and processes in the universe. They are relative concepts and one cannot exist without the other - hence the 'yin-yang' symbol in which elements of both black and white exist within each other.

This can be expressed as Yin being the darker element - passive, dark, feminine, or in Tai Chi, yielding. Whereas Yang is the brighter element - active, light, masculine, and in Tai Chi, outward forward expression of energy.

Yin is often symbolized by water or earth, while Yang is symbolized by fire, or wind.

Yin (receptive, feminine, dark, passive force) and Yang (creative, masculine, bright, active force) are descriptions of complementary and relative opposites rather than absolutes. Any Yin/Yang dichotomy can be seen as its opposite when viewed from another perspective. Most forces in nature can be seen as having Yin and Yang states, and the two are usually in movement rather than held in absolute stasis.