Be the Yin to My Yang
When you look up the meaning of yin and yang, (pronounced “yahn”), you find that in Chinese philosophy they are thought of as energy forces which although seem to be opposite and in contrast with one another, actually interact and complement one another. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) describes these forces as balancing one another to achieve universal harmony. Similarly, TCM also uses the yin and yang philosophy as a way to better understand relationships within the body. These qualities need to be in balance to prevent certain ailments and illnesses.
Looking at the yin and yang symbol, “yin” is the dark, shaded half and “yang” is the lighter half of the circle. You will also notice a small circle of dark within the light area and a light circle within the dark area. This is also symbolic of the belief that even within the dark there is some light and, similarly, within the light, you find some darkness.
TCM, teaches about the energy properties found in food, explaining that food has the power to not only strengthen, but to also energize and heal the body. Since according to TCM, the balance between “cool” or “yin”, and “warm” or “yang” is important in order to achieve harmony in all things, when there is too much yin or yang foods, TCM believes the body’s balance is upset which may lead to illness.
The yin and yang philosophy can also be used to interpret how our bodies respond to foods at different times of the year to be in balance. The energy associated with the food is what is considered when determining whether a food has a yin or yang quality. A basic example is that during the cooler, fall and winter months our bodies often crave more “yang”, foods which would be more warming, savory, calorie-dense foods such as a bowl of savory chili over a cold salad, or a delicious turmeric latte over an iced tea.
Conversely during the warmer days of spring and summer, we usually prefer to eat foods which are more “yin”; cooling, lighter foods such as lightly grilled veggies and fresh, sweet melon rather than a plate of roasted root vegetables or a warm berry compote.
According to TCM, consuming too many yin or yang foods can cause an imbalance and thus result in some health issues. Following this train of thought when you feed your body according to the seasons and purchase your food, especially local produce, you are more likely to be healthier because your body’s yin and yang will be in balance.
Yours In Good Health,
