The theories of Yin and Yang and the Five Elements are fundamental principles of Chinese science. These theories explain the dynamic recognition of processes, objects, and their function in nature. Their breadth is too broad to be fully addressed here; rather our discussion will focus on the application of the theories to the human body.
Yin and Yang: Basic principles
The theory stems from the belief that any object is a unified whole and is composed of two parts that portray opposing qualities. Yin and yang are best conceptualized as energies that balance and restrain one another. All living objects, as well as their parts, can be identified as "yin" or "yang." Any scientific analysis requires yin or yang designation be given to aspects of processes or objects.
Yang
Yang energy possesses to property which pertain to fire: warmth, brightness, excitation, activity, and the tendency to rise. Essentially, yang represents qi.
Yin
Yin energy possesses the qualities of water: cold, dim, inhibitory, heaviness, and the tendency to descend or pull down. Yin represents the substance, form, and activity of qi.
All living objects, as well as their parts, can be identified as "yin" or "yang." Any scientific analysis requires yin or yang designation be given to aspects of processes or objects. Thus, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has designated all parts of the human body, as well as organs systems, as yin or yang. Each system or organ's designation allows relationships to be delineated in combination with the principles of the five Elements, channel system, and the zang-fu organs. The balance of yin and yang are essential to the health and well-being of the body and its systems. Disease may be defined as deficient, excessive, or stagnant yin (or yang).
The Five Elements
The theory of the five elements comes from the traditional Chinese medical belief that all systems have structural qualities that interact with each other. Each element is symbolic of qualities in nature.
- Wood: germinates, spreads its leaves
- Fire: Flares upward
- Earth: Promotion of growth, nourishment
- Metal: Purification and solidity Water
- Cold: flows downward
In the tradition of TCM, the principles and relationships of the five elements explain the physiology of the body. The theory also serves as a model for the interaction of traditional organs and the probable path for disease. Furthermore, the theory defines a set of principles for the diagnosis, and treatment of disease. Relationships between the elements are fundamental to TCM. Each element controls or receives control from another specific element. These relations are cyclical and are highly symbolic of the integration of the systems of the body. In TCM, elements are paired to organ systems and are used to explain etiology and paths of disease. To see a comprehensive table relating the five elements to the zang-fu organ and channel systems, click here.
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