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| A Basic Understanding of the Yin Yang Theory |
Opposing forces exist in all things. In ancient Chinese, this is known as the Yin Yang Theory. The whole cannot exist without both sides pushing and pulling towards or against each other. Nothing exists without its opposite. Easy life examples are light and dark, up and down, and hot and cold.
A Review of The Yin Yang Theory in Home Decor
Home decorating choices, like all things in life, will impact the energy flow in a space. The approach to a positive home environment is known as Feng Shui. Learning a few basics about Yin and Yang can help pre-plan a room.
What is Yin?
Yin is feminine energy, sometimes referred to as passive energy. Think of Yin as the calming and relaxing aspects of a room's design. Here are some typical examples of Yin energy as it relates to home decor:
- Calming music
- Soft color tones
- Simple water features
- Cozy blankets
- Ambient lighting
- Flowers
- Candles
- Eliminate clutter
- Peaceful wall art
What is Yang?
Yang is masculine energy, sometimes referred to as active energy. Think of the sleek, fun, movement side of life. Here's a shortlist of suggested items to consider in a room that needs the balance of Yang:
- Energetic music
- Windchimes
- Tall house plants
- Industrial decor items
- Rod iron pieces
- Metal wall art
- Angular architecture
- Concrete floors
- Large windows
- Natural light
- Bright lighting
- Large family table in the kitchen
- Cheerful colors
- Bold wall art
- People gathering in a space
- The laughter and fun of kids playing
Yin Yang Doesn't Need to Be 50/50
In other words, some rooms will lean toward Yin energy, like a bedroom, and others toward Yang energy, such as a kitchen or place where the family gathers.
Even though a room doesn't need a 50/50 balance, in order for it to feel right, it still requires both Yin and Yang energy.
For example, your bedroom should be a calm relaxing retreat and feature items that enhance those feelings. This means the bedroom will be designed with mostly Yin energy in mind. However, in order for the room to have a sense of balance, you'll still need some Yang energy. You could add a rug with brighter complementary colors, or bold furnishings with a masculine edge. If that's not your thing, try a few pieces of strategically positioned bold wall art.
Kitchens tend to work best with more Yang than Yin. A kitchen is usually the 'active' gathering place. Large windows, natural light, and cheery colors all help to bring a kitchen to life. Again, you'll still want some yin energy items featured. Soften the room with a lovely soft floral centerpiece. Since the scent of coffee or even the thought of it can be calming, create a coffee station in the kitchen, with cakes and cookies nearby.
The Quick and Easy Way to Create Balance
A simple way to tell if a room isn't balanced is to ask yourself, "does the room's overall decor feel too warm or too cold?" If you sense it leans too much one way, then add some of the opposite to create balance.
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate, Ebay (EPN) and/or Esty (Awin) Affiliate, I (we) earn from qualifying purchases.”
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