The Concept of Yin and Yang

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Yin and Ying is rooted in ancient Chinese philosophy. While impossible to fully describe in a short article, Yin and Yang is a crucial point in Chinese culture. The simplest definition is that it is a belief in the power of opposites and balance. Yin and Yang are completely opposite, yet completely interdependent. Chinese people believe that until the Yin/Yang balance is properly achieved, harmony and peace cannot be experienced.

Yin and Yang are present in every part of Chinese life. One of the easier to understand is that of food and cooking. Chinese cooks seek to strike a Yin/Yang balance in every dish, meaning there is a balance of hot and cold, and sweet and sour, and others. Certain foods are considered yin and others are deemed yang. Meals with both are considered more pleasing and harmonious.



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