The Characteristics of Yin and Yang
By Lillian Too

       In Feng Shui, applying the Yin and Yang concept brings about balance and harmony, which in turn brings good fortune. When either too much Yin energy or too much Yang energy prevails, imbalance is created, thereby bringing abundant misfortune.

     Yin and Yang symbolize many different aspects of our universe, and have been used by Chinese philosophers in order to account for human emotions, character, and behavior. Yin represents the moon and the more despondent side of human nature; Yang is the sun and the bright, solid, energetic side of humankind.

     Yang also symbolizes heaven, vigor, and positive energy. It is hard, fiery, and hot. Even numbers, movement, and life itself is Yang. Yang is the dragon in Feng Shui, representing mountains and raised landforms. Tall buildings, large structures, and noise create Yang energy.

     Yin symbolized the earth, the moon, darkness, and negative energy. It governs the cold, the soft, the dead and odd numbers. Yin is the tiger in Feng Shui. Valleys, streams, and water possess Yin qualities. Burial grounds, places of worship, and flat, contourless land emanate Yin energy.

     Yin and Yang continually interact, creating change. Thus, summer gives way to winter, which in turn gives way to summer once again. Night follows day. The moon gives way to the sun. Darkness becomes light.

     The forces of Yin are powerful during the cold winter months when darkness prevails, but they weaken when the Yang of the summer sun asserts its influence. Likewise, Yang prevails in the summer months, when the warmth of the weather brings life, sunshine, and good harvests.