The Yin and Yang of it

In Chinese philosophy, yin and yang are concepts that describe how seemingly opposite or contrary forces may be complementary, interconnected, and interdependent in the natural world. They give rise to each other as they interrelate. Yin is associated with female energy, darkness, the moon, and the essence of all things, while yang is associated with male energy, light, the sun, and the form of all things. Generally, yin and yang are recognized as representing opposites across various topics. The world, while made up of many different and sometimes opposing forces, sees these elements coexisting and even enhancing each other. Often, opposing forces depend on each other for existence. The essence of yin-yang is found in the exchange and interaction between these two elements. The relationship between day and night exemplifies this concept, as one cannot exist without the other.

Yin and Yang emerged from chaos at the universe's inception, coexisting harmoniously at the Earth's core. The equilibrium they attained within the cosmic egg facilitated the emergence of Pangu, regarded as the inaugural human.

The yin-yang symbol, also referred to as the Tai Chi symbol, features a circle split into two swirling halves by a sinuous line. One half is painted black, symbolizing the yin aspect, while the other is white, representing the yang aspect. Each half contains a small dot of the opposite color near its center. This design illustrates the halves merging along a spiral curve, dividing the circle into semicircles, and the dots signify the concept that each side contains the potential of the other.

The white dot within the black space and the black dot within the white space symbolize the coexistence and unity of opposites, creating a whole. The sinuous line indicates that there are no absolute divisions between the opposites. Thus, the yin-yang symbol represents duality, paradox, unity within diversity, transformation, and balance.

Here's another one of my original patterns. I'm not certain, but I believe I'm developing my style of pattern writing. Would any crocheters be willing to test this out? I'd welcome any feedback on the instructions. For years, I've either followed patterns or improvised, but then I struggle to replicate the look. Now, at least, I can understand my notes. LOL

As I start designing patterns for Fiber Magick in the Garden, I will include designs like this one and the evil eye pattern, which will form the crochet elements of the macrame hangers in the Hanging Gardens section.

YIN YANG- make 2 in alternating contrasting colors

Ch 4 with yarn A

Dc in 4th ch from hook

15 dc in same chain

join in top of ch 4. fasten off.

Make another with yarn B

Join yarn B in any dc on circle A

sc, 2sc, sc, 2sc, hdc, 2hdc, hdc, 2hdc

dc, 2dc, dc, 2dc, trc, 2trc, trc, 4trc in last stitch in circle

Working on the side of last trc

Ch 4, 3trc, dc, evenly

Dc in sc on center

hdc in next 2 stitches, sc in next 2 stitches turn

Ch 1, sc, hdc in next 3 st, dc in next 3 st, trc in next 2 st, leave top of chain 4 unworked, turn

Ch 4 (counts as first trc), trc in next 2 st, dc in next 2 st, hdc in next 2 st, sc in next 2 st turn

Ch 1, sc in next 2 st, hdc in next 2 st, dc in next 2 st, trc in next 2 st, leave top of chain 4 unworked turn

Ch4 (counts as first trc), trc, dc, hdc, sc next 2 tog, sc next 2 tog, turn

Ch 1, sc, hdc, dc, trc in next 2 st, turn

Ch 4 (counts as first trc), trc, dc, hdc, sc, turn

Ch 1, sc, hdc, dc, trc, leave top of chain 4 unworked, fasten off

Repeat with yarn A on circle B.

Fit pieces together, stretching points to create a circle.

Use lighter color yarn to sew halves together down the center.

Sc around the outside of the circle evenly, and change colors to accentuate contrast.

Block the piece into a circle shape. This can be done by spraying it with a little water,

shape, and allow to air dry. Add a drop of essential oil to the water for intention.

I have used this motif on a blanket and a cozy for a didgeridoo.

It would also look good on a purse or the top of a hat. Ooo yay, a top hat.

Stay Crafty, Opal Luna