the two fundamental principles, one negative, dark, passive, cold, wet, and feminine (yin) and the other (yang) positive, bright, active, dry, hot and masculine. The interactions and balance of these forces in people and nature influence their behavior and fate.

Concepts used in traditional Chinese medicine to understand the dynamic nature of all the interrelationships in life. Yin and Yang are two stages of a cyclical motion which represent the dual opposite and interdependent aspects of everything in the universe. Everything is paired with its opposite and is represented as Yin (night, darkness, rest, moon, dimmness, cold, weakness) or Yang (day, light, activity, sun, brightness, heat, strength). Disease occurs when there is imbalance in the rhythmic cycling between Yin and Yang.

(n, pl) two opposing types of energy or contrasting forces. Yin is described as yielding, passive, negative, dark, and female. Yang is dynamic, assertive, positive, light, and male. The two energies are opposite and yet mutually dependent. Yin may become yang and vice versa, just as day becomes night, cold becomes hot, and the reverse. The behavior of yin and yang describes the structure of any event or thing. It may be said that their dynamic relationship describes the operation of the Tao in its cycles of creation, and that their alternating movement underlies the structure of everything in the universe. The concept of yin and yang is conveyed by the tiger and dragon and by the Taiji symbol (see also Taiji diagram).

Famous Oriental circus act.

The equal and opposite qualities of Qi, the vital energy of the body.