Yin/Yang
Scottish Country Dance Instruction
Yin/Yang 4x32 Strathspey for 4C Square Set by Sue McKinnell1-4 1C and 3C dance LH across to original places.
5-8 1W followed by 1M, similarly 3W followed by 3M, dance into the set, then chase as if around a circle to end 1C facing 2C and 3C facing 4C. (Women will be facing women and men facing men.)
9-16 1C and 2C, similarly 3C and 4C, dance RH across then circle left once round.
17-24 Parallel reels of 4 across the set, 1C passing 2C and 3C passing 4C RS to begin.
25-28 1C and 3C pass the person they are facing LS, turn left, and chase CCW to original places.
29-32 All chase CCW 1 place and set with partners facing into the set.
(Dance crib compiled by the deviser Sue McKinnell, 2018)
Keith Rose's Crib Diagrams
Dance Information
The shape of the figures of this dance remind me of the yin-yang symbol.Suggested music: Double Diamond Strathspey from Vintage Goldring.
(Dance information by the deviser, Sue McKinnell)
Yin and Yang, fundamental concepts in Chinese philosophy, represent the dualistic nature of existence and the interdependence of seemingly opposing forces. Originating from ancient Chinese cosmology and metaphysics, Yin and Yang provide a framework for understanding the dynamic balance and harmony inherent in the universe.
The concept of Yin and Yang is deeply rooted in the Daoist tradition and is central to Chinese cosmology. According to this philosophy, everything in the world is comprised of two opposing but complementary forces, known as Yin and Yang. These forces are in constant flux, interacting and influencing each other in a cyclical manner.
The symbol for Yin and Yang is a circle divided into two halves, one black (Yin) and the other white (Yang). Within each section, there is a small dot of the opposite color, symbolizing the presence of each force within the other. This visual representation encapsulates the idea that within Yin, there is Yang, and vice versa, emphasizing their interconnectedness.
Attributes of Yin and Yang:
- Yin:
- Associated with the feminine, darkness, passivity, receptivity, and the moon.
- Symbolized by the color black.
- Represents stillness, intuition, and nurturing qualities.
- Yang:
- Associated with the masculine, light, activity, assertiveness, and the sun.
- Symbolized by the color white.
- Represents movement, logic, and transformative energy.
The essence of Yin and Yang lies in the dynamic equilibrium between the two forces. Neither force can exist in isolation, and their constant interplay maintains harmony. The dynamic balance suggests that one force can transform into the other, and extremes of either force can disrupt the natural order.
The concept of Yin and Yang is cyclical, reflecting the continuous flow of energy and change in the universe. The interplay between the forces is evident in natural phenomena such as day and night, the changing seasons, and the ebb and flow of tides.
While deeply ingrained in Chinese philosophy, the Yin and Yang concept has also found applications in various aspects of Chinese culture, including traditional Chinese medicine, feng shui, martial arts, and the I Ching (Book of Changes). In these applications, Yin and Yang are used as guiding principles for understanding health, balance, and the flow of energy.
The symbol for Yin and Yang
Image copyright JohnLangdon, Creative Commons Licence 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
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