The Yin and Yang of Body Shapes

According to the Five Elements Theory, all body shapes fall into one of five categories. There is a simplified approach limited to the interaction of Yin and Yang energies within our body.

 A schematic representation is useful. Yang is represented by an equilateral triangle (all sides are equal), standing not on its base but on the opposite angle. Conversely, Yin is represented by an equilateral triangle standing on its base.

Upside down triangle: dominating Yang energy. It favors the development of the upper part of the body at the expense of the lower parts (big shoulders and skinny legs).



The triangle resting on its base: dominating Yin energy. It favors the development of the lower part of the body at the expense of the upper part.




A rectangle standing on its smaller side: balance of Yin and Yang.




Two triangles joined at the opposing angles with their base both at the bottom and at the top: strong Yang on the upper part of the body with strong Yin at the lower part of the body creating a constriction in the midsection.  It results in insufficient energy for asimilation and elimination with all the attendant health and skin problems that this condition generates.



Two triangles joined at the base with opposing angles both at the top and the bottom: limited development of legs and shoulders with strong development of midsection. It points to an overactive assimilation and elimination but weak regenerating function.



This schematic information easily derived from observation is to be used in addition to the knowledge obtained concerning the five types of body shapes.