特性 Characteristics
陰 Yin
Qualities
- Dark
- Cold
- Rest
- Interior
- Descending
- Water
- Night
- Substance
Body Aspects
- Interior organs
- Front of body
- Lower body
- Blood and fluids
陽 Yang
Qualities
- Light
- Warm
- Activity
- Exterior
- Ascending
- Fire
- Day
- Function
Body Aspects
- Exterior
- Back of body
- Upper body
- Qi and warmth
關係 Relationships
Opposition
Yin and Yang are opposite stages of a cycle
Interdependence
Neither can exist without the other
Mutual Consumption
When one increases, the other decreases
Inter-transformation
At extremes, each transforms into the other
應用 Clinical Application
- Diagnosing patterns as Yin or Yang
- Understanding disease progression
- Guiding treatment principles
- Balancing opposing forces
法於陰陽，和於術數
"Pattern oneself on Yin and Yang, harmonize with the calculations of heaven."
— Suwen, Chapter 1
Note: Yin-Yang theory is a philosophical framework that informs TCM practice.