Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Achieving Balance

Many of us often suffer from a misalignment of yin and yang, the ancient Chinese concept of opposing energy forces. When yin and yang are in balance, we experience harmony and an overall sense of well-being. When yin and yang are out of balance, we tend to feel like something's just not quite right. Tending to our balance of yin and yang energy is an important part of feeling at peace and comfortable in our own skin. Here are a few suggestions for balancing the yin-yang energy in your own life.
If you're feeling anxious, nervous, or always on the go, increase yin activities. Take a bath instead of a shower. Why? Feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and stress or pressure correspond with yang energy which is more active and forceful. Bathing corresponds more with the yin energy of receptivity and restoration.
If you're feeling down, sluggish, or lacking motivation, you need more yang activities in your day. Try a power yoga class or go out for a run. When we are feeling down, yin energy is predominating and we need to add more yang to feel balanced and relieve symptoms. Any active and vigorous activity should do the trick. The Chinese believe in the concept of "qi" or "chi" which is the life energy that surrounds us both inside and out. When it is in balance, we experience harmony and wellbeing. Do what you can this month to balance your qi, balance the yin and yang in your life.
Cultivate balance in your life by attending to your senses and making efforts to increase feelings of wellbeing. You'll notice small changes can make a big difference!