Find the Universe in A Coffee Cup

Sun, May 17, 2020

Enjoy our weekly wellness tip from Licensed Acupuncturist, Michael Savalli, from the office of Elizabeth Martin.

Find the Universe in a Coffee Cup – Yin/Yang Theory
(Image by Torode on flickr)

 Yin and Yang are the foundational concepts of much of Chinese philosophy and are included in its long medical tradition. They are polar opposites, whose interaction can be seen throughout nature. In matters big and small, from galaxies to subatomic particles, we see the interplay of these opposing forces, taking many forms. Whether it’s space and time, or matter and energy, or hot and cold…these Yin and Yang interactions give shape to all things and govern their behavior. Its concept explains a river’s flow downhill, and at the same time, supports the idea of dark energy in the universe. In all we can see or feel, they are two opposites, that together, form one whole.

When we look more closely at this relationship between Yin and Yang, we find it even more illuminating. Anything you can think of can be looked at in terms of Yin and Yang. For example, Winter (Yin), becomes summer (Yang), with gradual variations between the two. This is where we get the seasons from, this pendulum-like motion between Yin and Yang. Likewise, from this follows the Five Elements, and eventually, “the 10,000 things”.

There is Yin within Yang, and as far as we can look, they are continuously divisible in this way. We can see many phases in their interactions. A given month, for example, will have moon phases from new (Yin) to full (Yang). Then each day has midnight (Yin) and noon (Yang), and so on.

If you’re having trouble picturing how these two opposing forces can be found in, well, everything, just look at all we can do with computers. Any picture, or animation, or game, or task is done on computers comes down to a binary representation of zeroes and ones. By combining 0’s and 1’s in creative ways, we use computers to do some amazing things. Now imagine that the computer is the size of the Universe, that’s Yin and Yang. Understanding how this interaction unfolds goes a long way towards understanding the Universe, and its microcosm, in humanity. Then, whether something is Yin or Yang, is always in relation to something else. It’s simply a matter of perspective.

The Principles of Yin and Yang Theory

They are Opposites,

That are Interdependent.

Each can be divided further into Yin and Yang.

They both consume and support one another.

They each transform into one another.

There is Yin within yang, yang within yin.

5 Elements to Freedom Self Care Course

In this self-study course, you learn about the elements of Chinese Medicine and how to diagnose and treat your own energetic imbalances. 

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Virtual Acu-Pressure Sessions Available

When you cannot get into the office Acu-Pressure can be just as effective as acupuncture and insurance may cover! You will learn locations of custom acu-pressure points and will be guided through meditations. Liz has been practicing Acupuncture, Herbal Medicine, Medical Qi Gong, and massage since 2012 and is committed to educating her patients on ways to stay healthy and prevent disease through self care techniques.  

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Meet Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

Michael is a board certified NY State Licensed Acupuncturist, who received his Masters Degree in Oriental Medicine from New York College of Health Professions.  While in this program, he also specialized in Chinese Herbal Medicine. If you or anyone you know is interested in staying healthy this season, schedule your appointment and learn how Acupuncture and herbs can boost your immunity. 

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Click to learn more about Michael Savalli, MSOM, L.Ac

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Next time you have some time, look at nature and the world around you, and see how many things you can label relatively into Yin and Yang.

With Love,

Liz

Elizabeth M. Martin, MSOM, L.Ac, LMT and the Staff at Hands on Acupuncture and Massage Therapy, P.C.