Tracing the origins of the Yin Yang symbol through determination of its ancient purpose, tracing its roots in ancient histories and myths, and discovering artifacts that lead to the identity of the early civilization that developed and used it.

The concept of yinyang lies at the heart of Chinese thought and culture. The relationship between these two opposing, yet mutually dependent, forces is symbolized in the familiar black and white symbol that has become an icon in popular culture across the world. The real significance of yinyang is, however, more complex and subtle. This brilliant and comprehensive analysis by one of the leading authorities in the field captures the richness and multiplicity of the meanings and applications of yinyang, including its visual presentations. Through a vast range of historical and textual sources, the book examines the scope and role of yinyang, the philosophical significance of its various layers of meanings and its relation to numerous schools and traditions within Chinese (and Western) philosophy. By putting yinyang on a secure and clear philosophical footing, the book roots the concept in the original Chinese idiom, distancing it from Western assumptions, frameworks and terms, yet also seeking to connect its analysis to shared cross-cultural philosophical concerns.

In Fire Over Heaven author/artist Roy Collins uncovers the ancient origins of the Chinese yin/yang dialectic and the I Ching (Book of Changes) and explains the complex debate over their meanings. Inspired by art historian Ernest Fenollosa’s early work on the exchange of cross-cultural art and design motifs, Collins has reasoned that a similar path of transmission had also heightened the barter of both ideas and languages. He further argues that due to the nature of cultural differences and individual perception, it often becomes obligatory for people to make slight adjustments in word sounds, art forms, and visual styles in order for new transitions to be acceptable. From Africa’s Rift Valley, across the sands of the “Silk Route” and into the heart of New York’s Greenwich Village, Collins cites examples of specific key words and ideas from well-known artists, philosophers, poets, physicists, historians, political officials, and scientists to show how their interpretations differ from the original usage. It is a literary/psychological journey that extends back over three million years in time and, according to Collins, is slated to continue as long as the human race evolves in time.

"A systematic account of Chinese thought from its origins to the present day"--Cover.

The first book to fully explore and explain the concept of yin yang, breaking it down in easy-to-follow terms for all those interested in Daoism, alternative medicine, martial arts and other Eastern fields of study. Illustrated with striking red/black graphics that make the concepts more accessible. The concept of yin yang can be found in some of the oldest writing in the world. It is fundamental to Chinese thought and the route to understanding most Chinese practices, from Traditional Chinese Medicine to Daoism and feng shui. It also offers us ways of enhancing our own lives, establishing greater balance not only in our own environment but also in the wider world if we can work with other people to follow nature's flow. The central question of the book is "What is yin yang?" Step by step, with plenty of helpful illustrations and graphics, it explores the history and changing uses of yin yang - not forgetting the pronunciation and spelling (why yinyang is actually better than yin yang). The book also makes suggestions for working with yin yang, from observing the landscape to get a sense of the ebb and flow of energy through the world, to studying the patterns of nature in order to take what you need but not too much, to approaching sex as a cosmic ritual. After reading this book, readers will understand how to position themselves so that yin yang fills their lives with abundance - how to be in the right place at the right time.

During the recent years, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has attracted the attention of researchers all over the world. It is looked upon not only as a bright pearl, but also a treasure house of ancient Chinese culture. Nowadays, TCM has become a subject area with high potential and the possibility for original innovation. This book titled Recent Advances in Theories and Practice of Chinese Medicine provides an authoritative and cutting-edge insight into TCM research, including its basic theories, diagnostic approach, current clinical applications, latest advances, and more. It discusses many often neglected important issues, such as the theory of TCM property, and how to carry out TCM research in the direction of TCM property theory using modern scientific technology. The authors of this book comprise an international group of recognized researchers who possess abundant clinical knowledge and research background due to their years of practicing TCM. Hopefully, this book will help our readers gain a deeper understanding of the unique characteristics of Chinese medicine.