Can you see the light?
We are in the darkest part of the year. Today we celebrate the return of the light. But it doesn’t seem very light yet, does it?!
You may be familiar with the image above, called the Yin Yang symbol (or Tai Chi symbol). The purpose of this design is show that there are always opposing factors in life, and that they balance each other.
Yang, represented by the color white, is more active, forceful, bright, light, warm and masculine. Yin, represented by the color black, is more passive, dark, quiet, cool, gentle, feminine.
But the cool part is the dots! They show that when the Yang has reached it’s peak it contains within it the seed of its opposite. When we are most active, say running in the sunlight, shouting and playing we are at the same time creating the need for rest, for quiet and sleep in order to restore.
The solstice is a good example of the dot of white/yang within the most intense darkness of yin. In winter, with long nights and cold temperatures, we are hopefully sleeping more, staying inside more, turning inward. And yet this is when we remember and celebrate that although we are still in the darkness, the light begins its return today.
Yin and Yang are in a constant swirling dance, as the years turn, as each day goes from light to dark, as we each move through our lives and their varying needs, moods and experiences. A big part of acupuncture is helping each person find a healthy balance between yin and yang within their lives, bodies and selves!
Tai Chi is also an excellent way to help support your own balance - both literally (Tai Chi has been shown to reduce falls) - and energetically. I’m teaching Tai Chi on Saturdays at Studio 34 at 2pm. Just reach out if you’d like more information!
Or come in for a session to get support finding the balance of yin and yang within yourself.
Wishing you a joyful solstice and happy holidays as we share this special time of year!