Yin and Yang is a Chinese philosophy from ancient times. They represent opposite yet complimentary elementary principles. They are of the same character in reality, with neither one better or worse than the other. Man (Yang) holds within himself a feminine component (Yin), and Woman (Yin) carries a masculine component within (Yang). Each one may hold certain components of each other, yet their respective influences remain quite opposite. The dots in the Yin and Yang symbol represent the existence of one within the other. Yin is black and Yang is white.

Some basic examples of Yin/Yang principles are Yes/No, Positive/Negative, Black/White, Masculine/Feminine. Yin is often represented by Water, whilst Yang is often represented by Fire or Wind. Yin appears to influence perception and feminine qualities, whilst Yang is more creative and masculine. Since they both continuously work together, these two principles often provide us with what we deserve. Yin and Yang work well together in order to bring a united balance. In fact, everything (especially movement) can be referred to as Yin and Yang at work.

Yin and Yang cannot work without each other. A perfect example is when day becomes night, and night becomes day. Although they are usually equally balanced, if one becomes more predominant, the other becomes more passive. However, as one force grows stronger, the other will become more intense and both will meet again in balance. Sometimes Yin can even reproduce into Yang and vice versa. Yin or Yang also incorporate the five eastern elements; Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth.

YIN -   Rat    Ox    Rabbit   Monkey   Dog   Boar

YANG - Tiger   Horse   Dragon   Snake    Sheep   Rooster