In this article, we will explore how Chinese philosophy perceives food. The Chinese fundamentally believe in the two qualities of life, the Yin and the Yang. More specifically, Yin represents the feminine quality while Yang represents the masculine. Additionally, all foods are divided into Yin and Yang Foods according to their effect on the body.
The two qualities, according to Chinese Medicine
Yin quality
Yin is anything that carries a feminine quality within it.
Words that describe Yin: nourishment, relaxation, femininity, freshness, cold, dark, wet.
Yang quality
Yang is anything that carries a masculine quality within it.
Words describing Yang: heat, light, dry, masculine, and energy.
The balance of Yin-Yang
The Chinese believe deeply in the power of balance and complementarity. The Yin-Yang symbol (article photo) is proof of this balance. In addition, white represents the feminine, while black represents the masculine energy. Equally important, the symbol demonstrates that the union of the female with the male creates the whole. With better observation, we see a smaller Yang within Yin and a smaller Yin within Yang. This shape shows the essence of nature, containing these two qualities necessary for the proper functioning of each organism.
Yin and Yang Foods
Yin foods
- they are cold
- moisturize the body
- have few calories
- with a high percentage of potassium
- ideal in high-temperature conditions
Some Examples: are dairy products, honey, spices, oils, tropical fruits, tofu, leafy vegetables, beans, seaweed, nuts and seeds, and sugar.
Yang foods
- they are hot
- dry out the body
- have more calories
- contain more sodium
- ideal in low-temperature conditions
Some Examples are salt, red meat, miso, eggs, chicken, fish, and grains.
The Theory of Chinese Medicine
Maintaining health and well-being is based on proper and appropriate nutrition. In conclusion, in the theory of Chinese Medicine, the restoration of Yin and Yang quality within the body plays a primary role. In addition, the Chinese associate various disorders and health issues with the excessive presence or lack of Yang or Yin qualities. Moreover, the quality of our food indicates the state of our health, disrupting or restoring the balance within us that allows us to live a long and healthy life.
How to use this information
- Choose foods corresponding to the season of the year. For example, in summer, the body needs more yin foods that hydrate the body. Consume more fruits and vegetables during summer and more grains in winter.
- Whenever, you require energy, select food from the Yang category.
- In case you need to relax, eat something from the Yin food group.
- You can also use the qualities of food to ease your emotions. For example, in cases of anger, you can make a herbal infusion with honey.
Remember your uniqueness!
While you found the information helpful, consider contacting a Chinese medicine specialist. In a session, the specialist will analyze the quality of your body, and you will receive your special diet with the corresponding Yin and Yang foods so that your body returns to balance. Finally, avoid the diets you occasionally find on the internet, as they are not based on your nutritional needs! Chinese medicine could help you build a daily routine of nourishment and deep healing.
