Yin & Yang - Opposite or Complimentary?
The concept of the yin and yang principles feels like a paradox. Yin and Yang are forces that appear to be opposite or contrary but, in actuality, are complementary. I like to use two primary examples: female/male and light/dark. In the literal translation of the ancient languages, yin means bright and yang means dark.
In hatha yoga, we use yin to describe practices that are receptive in nature and yang to describe practices that are more assertive in nature. I taught and still practice yin yoga, moving slowly and thoughtfully through the asanas (postures), mindful of breath, awareness, and movement. In yang classes, vinyasa tends to be the norm challenging us to breathe and move more quickly and strongly through the asanas.
Yin is defined as the feminine (receptive) aspect of the Divine in all creation and yang is the masculine (assertive) aspect of the Divine in all creation. As human beings, we carry elements of both in our physical, mental, emotional makeup. Finding the balance of yin/yang is key to our health, happiness and well-being. Yoga and meditation are powerful tools to establish this balance and wholeness. When I first took yoga, I had little understanding of what I was doing and yet after about four classes I began to experience results. I remember lying on my blanket in savasana one night, falling into that sweet space within, and thinking, "I will do this for the rest of my life."
The yin/feminine was obvious in my life. However, that receptive, yielding nature was too dominant, out of balance and often led me into situations that were not contributing to my well-being. As my practice and my understanding continued to unfold, I watched the men in my life and began to understand yang energy. My father was raised on a sheep ranch in Nevada. He could live alone with a flock at a very young age, taking them to higher ground out of the summer heat. He was an Air Force pilot in three wars, a warrior. He was also my Daddy who took splinters out of my tiny fingers with the gentleness love provides. He sat on my bed the night before my wedding and wept with joy for his little girl and the woman she had become. He taught me to be strong and later I learned to be assertive and use the stronger side of my personality and nature. The balance came in finding the wisdom to be assertive without losing compassion for myself and others. Compassionate strength is powerful.
As I travel this circle of life, I acknowledge that I am designed with a nature and personality that is the foundation of how I move through life. On my path I meet others designed differently. Some move more happily and effectively through life and others less happily and effectively. My intention is to learn from both. My mother told me near the end of her life that she was blessed that, in many ways, I had learned what not to do from her. Powerful, right?
For me, the answers are fluid, varied and eclectic. No one method remains consistent beyond its general use. Even with yoga and meditation, my practices constantly change and adjust to what my highest good is at the time. When my father and my nephew were in intensive care at the same time, in different cities, my practice became legs up the wall on a bolster at least three times a day and guided yoga nidra throughout the night because sleep was rare. Today my practice is a combination of asana, walking meditation, living mindfully, and consistent daily meditation.
Each of us must find what works for us. Definitive methods work powerfully for many people. The highly intuitive path meets the needs of others. Balance sets us free to manifest our dreams from the True Self within. What balances you and nourishes True Self? Go with that. Give yourself permission to reevaluate your behavior and tools in case your needs change. Give yourself permission to try new and different things that may be outside your comfort zone. Then go with what works.
And always and in all ways remember to play, laugh and love from your Truth.
Do you desire clarity about the Yin/Yang sides of yourSelf? May I guide your journey with respect for your individual path? If so, I would love to hear from you.
Contact me with questions, appointment requests, or whatever is on your mind and heart: [email protected]
