Embracing our YIN

embracing yin

Yin and yang concepts date back from Ancient China with the belief that everything in the universe consists of two forces that are opposing but complementary. Female/male, moon and sun, slow/fast introverted/extraverted,  and so on.

The world we live in is extremely yang, our generations’ lifestyle has never been so yang. Think fast paced, demanding jobs, on the go mentality, deadlines, high intensity exercise, active social life, raising a family, social media presence and rest is hardly ever scheduled as part of normal day. Rest is usually something we consider when we are sick. 

The yin and yang symbol depicts that in order to find balance or harmony we must have equal parts yin and yang. In a yang world we need to consciously work to replenish our yin.

Yin is the fluid component of the body, moistening and cooling the energetics of the physical self. The yin is the synovial fluid that supports the joints, it is the fluid in the disks of the spine, it is the moisture that plumps up muscles and skin, it is the coolness that keeps the mind from racing and allows us to sweat just enough to regulate our temperature. Even though it is slow moving and subtle, the yin keeps us balanced and stable.

how do we replenish our yin?

• Sleep in a very dark room on an empty stomach

• Fall asleep before 10

• Wake without an alarm 

• Limit screen time during the day, avoid it after 5pm

• Avoid rushing

• Be self-aware to know when you are run down

• Prioritise

• Take a nap

• Hydrate the body with water, limit caffeine, avoid coffee, absolutely no soda

• Eat a fattening diet (full fat organic dairy, avocado, good oils, nuts, organic and local meats)

• Surround yourself with people you love

• Limit fearful moments (ie. caution around scary movies, driving in intense weather, being in crowded or loud places)

• Commute by walking or riding your bicycle

• Grow some of your own food

• Be in nature as much as possible

• Be away from your phone as often as possible

• Yin yoga