The Importance of Yin and Yang Essay

The theory of Yin and Yang is a relational and a philosophical concept that holds its roots in Daoism, a part of Chinese culture and religion. It constitutes a framework of unquestionable reflection and, at the same time, wonder as it explains the cosmic duality existing in the universe. Ideally, in the Chinese culture and religion, the yin often symbolized with the dark swirl is associated with inward energy that is negative, feminine, and dark. The yang, on the other hand, is usually symbolized by the light swirl is associated with passion, masculinity, outward energy, and growth. In the Chinese psychological thought, the concept of yin and yang is important because it illuminates the cosmic duality existing in the world and how people can achieve a balance of both in their lives

According to King, Woody, & Viney (2013), the concept of yin and yang suggests that everything in the world is made up of two opposite forces that unify harmoniously to affect change. This change is what characterizes today's modern and the advanced global society as well as the people in it. Currently, people's view of the world is in absolute and dichotomous terms. For example, one is either intelligent or ignorant, rational or emotional, and happy or sad. Even more, this personal vision is often streamlined towards yang where many individuals tend to emphasize strength over weakness without considering the reality as a continuum. The concept of yin and yang points out that both the opposing forces in one's life influence his or her existence and determine their wellbeing.

Similarly, yin and yang suggest that everyone in this world is complete and varied in his or her own way. Each person has unique qualities, characteristics, and capabilities that set them apart from other people. In most cases, however, people view themselves as a series of absolute, definite, and concrete traits without considering the opposite versions of themselves. For instance, one may see himself or herself as a kind or a just person and forgets to realize that some form of negativity may arise in the most unexpected ways. In reality, human beings live in a continuous contradiction. For example, one can be happy and hopeless at the same time. Also, people are capable of hating and loving at the same time.

The theory of yin and yang also acts as a symbol of transformation by suggesting that life is not static. The symbol of yin and yang, for instance, shows that one cannot see life from a classic point of view where everything seems black and white. In being human, just like in life, everything is comparative and may transform at any point in time. Individual personality usually arises from one's own capability to manipulate all the force that comes from within. For example, in order to love, one has to embrace his or her partner's dark and light sides. In addition, for one to be happy, he or she has to know how to manage sadness.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the theory of yin and yang illuminates how people can achieve a balance of the cosmic duality in their lives. For instance, as evidence suggests, everything in the world is made up of two opposite forces that unify harmoniously to affect change. Similarly, the theory suggests that everyone in this world is complete and varied in his or her own way. Moreover, the theory acts as a symbol of transformation by suggesting that life is not static.

Reference

King, D. B., Woody, W. D., & Viney, W. (2013). History of Psychology: Ideas and Context. (5th Ed.). Routledge.