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Yin yang is a Chinese cultural philosophy that’s at least 3,500 years old and is the basis of other lines of thinking like Taoism and Confucianism. At its core, the concept suggests that everything in the universe is made up of opposing but complementary forces—dark and light, sun and moon, good and evil. These forces are constantly competing, but they’re also continually governing the rules of the universe so that everything progresses and exists with both halves of the yin yang in tandem.
The yin yang philosophy is represented by a symbol consisting of a circle separated into two halves by a curved line. Individually, yin (the black half) represents an inward energy that is dark and still, whereas yang (the white half) has outward energy that is positive and bright. However, each half of the yin yang symbol has a small dot of the opposing color, representing that there cannot be one without the other—they’re completely intertwined. The line itself is curved to represent that no divide between the two halves is absolute.
For those who are connected to the culture or those who just feel represented in the philosophy of yin yang, the symbol makes a great tattoo. Whether you’re thinking of a simple symbol, a deconstructed one, or something else entirely, here are 25 yin yang tattoos to inspire you.
Small Yin-Yang Tattoo
A simple yin-yang with no extra detailing looks great next to other small tattoos. The minimalist approach is chic and dainty without feeling boring.
Deconstructed Yin-Yang Tattoo
A deconstructed yin-yang design is a great choice for those who want to go deeper into the symbolism and highlight each part. Try placing it along the muscle behind the ear to make it feel like a natural part of the body.
Lotus Flower Yin-Yang Tattooo
The addition of ornamentation like a lotus flower or dotwork expands the beauty of the yin-yang symbol.
Wrist Yin-Yang Tattoo
Placing a small tattoo on the outer wrist is a great idea for anyone who likes to show off their ink. It’s easy to cover up as well, though, in case you'd rather temporarily conceal it.
Fish Yin Yang Tattoo
Instead of the traditional yin-yang symbol, you may want to try depicting the symbol with other characters, such as two fish. Instead of having one be stark black, use shading to add color without being too bold.
Patterned Yin Yang Tattoo
Instead of simple black and white, personalize your-yin yang tattoo with a pattern on the dark side and interesting detailing on the edge of the traditionally white side, rendering this area negative-space. Add depth to the design with different line sizes, but use only one color so as not to get too busy.
Minimal Yin-Yang Tattoo
For the super minimalist, branch out from the typical circular borders of a yin-yang symbol. Instead, keep the amount of elements as small as possible and use sketch-like lines to make it feel personal and pared down.
Matching Yin-Yang Tattoos
As the yin-yang symbol is two separate halves coming together to form a whole, it’s a great tattoo to match with someone else. Split the sign into two and get the side that most represents you!
Super Simple Yin-Yang Tattoo
If you want to go for a delicate, minimalist approach to your tattoo, make sure the lines and blackwork are extremely crisp. By using simple shapes and thin lines, the design shines without the need for extra detail.
Snake Yin-Yang Tattoo
For anyone who likes the symbolism of the yin-yang but want to personalize it, try adding the halves as ornamentation to a larger design. The curves of this snake make the perfect space for the yin yang halves to nestle into.
Finger Yin-Yang Tattoo
The finger is a great placement idea for a yin-yang symbol because it can easily be adapted to a small space. Use white ink to add light-like details that make it pop without overwhelming the finger.
Inner Finger Yin-Yang Tattoo
If you like the look of a deconstructed yin-yang symbol, another great spot to get one is on the side of the finger. Keep the shapes simple and small for a chic and not busy look.
Couple Yin-Yang Tattoos
For a deeply connected couple, the yin-yang symbol is a great idea. Split up the design into halves to represent your understanding and emotional bond with each other.