Yin Yang: The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World

Yin Yang

Yin Yang

The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World

By Jack Rasmussen

Copyright © 2023 Jack Rasmussen

All rights reserved.

Yin Yang

The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World

ISBN

979-8-88926-752-2 Paperback

979-8-88926-518-4 Hardcover

979-8-88926-753-9 Ebook

Table of Contents

Foreword

Prologue

Part I. Deep History

Chapter 1. Introduction to Taiwan

Chapter 2. Introduction to Yin and Yang: Darkness and Daylight

Chapter 3. Bones: Tai Chi and Mythology

Chapter 4. Rich Spirit: Taoism (Daoism), Buddhism, Confucianism, and Christianity

Chapter 5. Mirrors…

Chapter 6. The Crippling Workaholic Tradition: Never Sleep

Chapter 7. Spiritual Transcendence: Islas Pescadores

Part II. Double-Sided Society

Chapter 8. Live Life like a Sponge Rather than a Sprinkler, but Also like a Stone

Chapter 9. Through Suffering, Life Matters Exponentially

Chapter 10. Nature, Nurture, Nada

Chapter 11. TV and Cinema

Chapter 12. Love Is a Game

Chapter 13. Astrology: Written in the Stars

Part III. Navigating the Dualistic Waters of the World

Chapter 14. Five Elements, Five Senses

Chapter 15. The Profound Key: Mindfulness

Chapter 16. Ignite the Love: The Power of Self-Love to Love Others

Chapter 17. Stress Is Self-Imposed. Stop Worrying.

Chapter 18. Empathetic Leadership: Learn to Listen

Chapter 19. An Often-Unmatched Symbiotic Pair: Business and Spirituality

Conclusion

Bonus Content

Acknowledgments

Appendix

Praise for Jack Rasmussen’s

YIN YANG

"Yin Yang is a charming and helpful book. Rasmussen is open about himself, writes in an easy and engaging manner, and provides integrated wisdom beyond his years about a complex and important topic."

—Fred Luskin, Ph.D., Author of Forgive for Good and Stress Free for Good, Director of the Stanford Forgiveness Projects

Jack brings an accessible, didactic, simple, and, at the same time, profound approach to concepts that may transform our lives, giving more meaning to our daily routines, and he does this from a fantastic first-person experience. I recommend reading.

—Marcelo Demarzo, M.D., Ph.D., Founder of the Mente Aberta - The Brazilian Center for Mindfulness and Health Promotion

"Another well-conceived contribution to the mindfulness literature. Jack Rasmussen’s book Yin Yang reminds us that [the practice of] mindfulness offers [us] a fulcrum for achieving a balance between the active and passive, constructive and letting go (flow) aspects of our daily existence."

—Edmund J. Bourne, Ph.D., Author of The Anxiety & Phobia Workbook

‘If you have a little spiritual knowledge, you should share it. This is the best type of charity.’ This [sentiment] is a teaching from my guru. In sharing these teachings, Jack Rasmussen is helping to dispel a little of the darkness of ignorance.

—Sri Dharma Mittra, Founder and Director of Dharma Yoga Center

"I found Yin Yang to be a truly fascinating book. I read it at a time when I, like so many others, was experiencing burnout. This book is the perfect antidote to the problem. I especially enjoyed learning about Jack’s own very personal experiences. I was particularly moved and inspired by his vulnerability in sharing past struggles. I would thoroughly recommend Yin Yang. It is a book that everyone needs to read in this extremely chaotic and complex modern world in which we all live today."

—Jonny Benjamin, Author, Filmmaker, and Founder of Youth Mental Health Charity Beyond

Few authors can tackle such a profound concept with sophistication and versatility. Rasmussen has done both. Great read!

—Damon West, Bestselling Author of The Coffee Bean

"Yin Yang: The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World by Jack Rasmussen is an enlightening exploration of balance and consciousness. Rasmussen’s dedication to comprehending the yin-yang symbol, inspired by his experiences in Taiwan, reveals the profound interplay between light and dark, action and rest, and spirituality and mindfulness. His vibrant storytelling transports readers to the dynamic streets of Taipei, reflecting the essence of yin and yang. What distinguishes this book is Rasmussen’s emphasis on mindfulness, a potent tool in today’s stress-laden world. His conversations with spiritual leaders such as Sadhguru and Bawa Jain enrich his quest for self-awareness and happiness. This book is essential reading for those in search of a more purposeful life. Rasmussen’s ability to unite spirituality, mindfulness, and practical wisdom makes Yin Yang indispensable for leaders, coaches, scholars, and anyone embarking on the journey to a balanced and gratifying life. It serves as a reminder that balance is not merely a destination but an ongoing voyage, with Rasmussen’s insights illuminating the path ahead."

—Patrick McKeown, Author of The Oxygen Advantage and The Breathing Cure,

CEO

and Director of Education and Training at Oxygen Advantage, Founder and Director of Education and Training at Buteyko Clinic International

"In an age where educators and school leaders are consumed with the superficial task of scoring better on standardized tests, Yin Ying is a breath of fresh air. True education is the liberation of the mind, body, and soul, and this book provides an insightful blueprint for achieving true personal success. I would highly recommend this book to any educator who considers themselves to be more than test prep coordinators."

—Anthony Muhammad, Author of Overcoming the Achievement Gap Trap

"Jack Rasmussen recounts his own discovery of the ancient concept of yin and yang, and he opens the way to a vast philosophy. His personal story is supported by thorough research, and he asks us to consider the most crucial personal and social issues of our times. Yin Yang: The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World fulfills an exciting journey. Along the way, we can discover yin and yang in our own lives."

—Deng Ming-Dao, Author of 365 Tao, The Lunar Tao, Scholar Warrior, and Chronicles of Tao

"In Yin Yang, Jack Rasmussen helps us unravel how to navigate our chaotic lives. His writing about complex ideas is relatable. This book will help us move forward into a better future. Yin Yang is about duality, balance, and understanding how to live a centered life. It’s an enticing and accessible look at how we can live our best lives."

—Sean Prentiss, Author of Finding Abbey: The Search for Edward Abbey and His Hidden Desert Grave

"In Yin Yang: The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World, Jack leaves no stone unturned as he shares his understanding of the various ways in which the dual nature of life presents itself in our world. As one who grew up in the West and then traveled to the East to immerse himself in a culture with a rich history of contemplation, Jack offers diverse perspectives and philosophies in which we can each find a source of knowledge that resonates with us deeply and across many areas. Covering topics such as mindset, leadership, relationships, entertainment, and business, he makes a compelling case for a deeper understanding of how we are best served by intentionally engaging with life while transparently sharing his own stories. What I love about Jack’s book is his exploration of the cyclical nature of life, first inspired by the Yin Yang and all that it symbolizes about duality, balance, and ebb and flow. I had a moment of clarity when the dots connected; the Yin Yang is the perfect representation of my lifelong fascination with its themes."

—Maki Moussavi, Author of The High Achiever’s Guide

"Yin Yang: The Elusive Symbol That Explains the World by Jack Rasmussen is an outstanding book meant to help the reader make sense of the world and understand that balance is a gift you can give yourself once you allow space for it to thrive in your life. Exhaustion, anger, and anxiety will diminish as you balance your time and consciously set out to become more grounded and live with a meditative state of mind. Using his skilled art of storytelling to captivate the reader, Rasmussen is willing to be vulnerable in order to teach lessons of mindfulness and convey effective ways to find peace in today’s fast-paced world. Embrace the author’s sound advice and use it to understand how to bring Yin Yang into your daily life."

—Bruce Langford, Mindfulness Mode Podcast Creator and Host

The world has been chaotic and will still be so for many years. But from the perspective of a Taoist philosopher, everything is nothing but yin and yang. The formula of happiness or good resolution for everything is yin yang balance. Rasmussen, with his book, all the more strengthens such a point!

—Master Gu Shining, Founder of the Wudang Taoist Wellness Academy

Jack tackles complexity with beauty and relatability, uncovering how duality can shape greatness in us all.

—Hilary DeCesare, International Business Coach, Transformational Expert, and

CEO

of The ReLaunch Co.

I admire Jack’s drive for self-improvement.

—Brian Bruya, Editor of Effortless Attention (

MIT

Press)

In memory of Pops.

I dedicate this book to the gorgeous country of Taiwan (my home for a year) and my serene hosts on my journey: Green World Hotel Taipei Station, Fullon Hotel Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf, Éclat Hotel Taipei, Great Skyview Hotel, Dazhi Denwell, Green World Hotel Zhonghua, Kindness Hotel Zhongshan Bade, The Great Roots Forestry Spa Resort, W Taipei, Four Points by Sheraton Penghu, Discovery Hotel, Pescadores Resort, Tai Hu Hotel Sun Moon Lake, Cloudenjoy B&B, Caesar Metro Hotel Taipei, Shangri-La Far Eastern Tainan, Qi Shiseido Salon and Spa, Longshan Temple, Chimei Museum, National Museum of Taiwan Literature, and The Museum of World Religions. The visits were magical.

THE DALAI LAMA

Foreword

When we face problems, we try to find ways to tackle them. In Buddhism one of our pertinent teachings is the avoidance of extremes. Similarly, nurturing compassion for others while maintaining a positive and comprehensive outlook on life is something that can help in one’s inner development.

When faced with difficulties, we should look at the problem from multiple dimensions and not from one angle alone. In this book, Jack Rasmussen shares his personal experience and explores ways to look at life positively. I hope readers find it helpful.

2 November 2023

Prologue

I was hungover. Bad. I walked into the church, nauseated and chaotic. I did not know if my friends knew it, and I did not care. But I did feel bad.

Church, which for me is a modern, large building in Glendale, is my happy place. It gives me a sense of relief, hope, and community in my often-noisy life.

I had gone to The Bungalow in Santa Monica the night before. The Bungalow was a restaurant my friends and I frequented—plush with a pool table, ping pong table, and several indoor and outdoor bars. Cocaine and a Moscow mule was my signature combination. It was always euphoric but short-lived. I listened to the preacher, my good friend, to accept God’s grace. Oh boy, I thought, I need that bad.

I prayed a lot that day because I knew my social life was driving me to do crazy things that I had to tell God to forgive me for consistently. I would make excuses in my head like I am only young once, or, This will not happen once I graduate.

The problem was alcohol allowed me to escape my loneliness and the pressure I felt. Naturally, I am a workaholic. I do not know when to stop. I find it hard to relax. I always have.

Taking communion and returning to my seat to listen to the final song from the band, I chewed on the bread and washed it down with grape juice like an animal that had not eaten in days. I probably hadn’t. I waved goodbye to my friends and returned to my South Central, Los Angeles house, feeling refreshed for my busy academic week ahead.

One of the most exciting parts of my week was my class called Asian Aesthetic and Literary Traditions. Being the only white man in my discussion class of twenty Asian students was interesting, and I loved it. We covered the Tao Te Ching and several Buddhist texts. I learned more about Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism—three Asian religions I have always been intrigued by because of their highly philosophical feeling.

It was a moment in my highly energetic, often drug-induced, free-flowing week to explore religious scripture and the meaning of life—two things that have captured my attention since I was young because of my natural curiosity. I find myself gazing at poetry by Matsuo Basho, drawn to his imagery and delicate portrait of nature to mirror humanity and its beauty. I read The Old Pond multiple times, a haiku about a frog leaping into a pond. Simple, so it seemed.

I raised my hand.

The frog represents interruption. No matter how long one can stay at peace, there will always be an interruption in the silence or the current moment, I offered. Nothing lasts forever, no matter how hard you may try.

The teacher looked at me and responded, Yes. That is impermanence.

I was intrigued by impermanence because it offers hope. Every day is a new day. One day, I woke up dizzy. The next day, I woke up feeling extremely clear. One day, I received a threat. The next day, someone bought me lunch.

I wanted to dive deeper into impermanence, nonattachment, and this cyclical nature of life. I understood that both ideas of impermanence and humanity’s connected, formless spirit were central themes in Daoism and Buddhism. Much like some of my Christian learning, when we reject ourselves and our physical manifestation, we connect deeper with others and are naturally happier.

In my short twenty-two years of life, I have broken many hearts, made many enemies, and met several people I call friends. But life goes on. What intrigues me is my introduction to religion, and specifically, East Asian religion, opened up a new perspective on my compulsive life of destruction. I began to meditate. I began to embrace this idea of being formless, presented by Lao Tzu, Taoist master, in the Tao Te Ching.

I craved more. I went to Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles and bought a new hat. The hat had a symbol on it, a sign that would come to represent the next year of my life. That symbol is called yin yang and represents balance, fusion, and surrender to me.

And my pursuit of letting go to trust the universe’s purpose for me began.

I decided to leave for Asia for a year.

Part 1:

Deep History

Chapter 1:

Introduction to Taiwan

A good heart, Kate, is the sun and the moon—or rather the sun and not the moon, for it shines bright and never changes, but keeps his course truly. If thou would have such a one, take me: and take me, take a soldier: take a soldier, take a king.

—William Shakespeare, Henry V, act 5 scene 2

We all need balance to reach a sense of personal peace.

The yin-yang symbol (also called the tai chi symbol) is a beautiful representation of this fruitful state of balance. The English Chi (Ji in pinyin) 极 (meaning extreme) is different from the Chi (Qi in pinyin) 氣 (meaning gas, air). Qi is understood as an energy force that powerfully flows through the body. The act of tai chi is said to promote the flow of qi. Yin and yang represent opposing elements that make up the universe and must be kept in harmony. Tai chi helps foster this balance. In this book, I will refer to tai chi as creating or influencing chi, qi, or life force energy within the body. The chi in tai chi directly means chi or ji. Tai chi translates to supreme ultimate and deals with life force energy or qi. This chi represents the energy that flows through our body and unites us and the rest of the world.

When I arrived in Taipei, Taiwan, in early August of 2022 for my Fulbright scholarship awarded to me by US Congress, I was dizzy and exhausted. I stepped off the airplane onto a runway at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport as the summer humidity hit me hard, blanketing me in moisture. The buildings off into the distance were tall, gray, and close together. The skyline reminded me of San Francisco—vast, populated mountains sitting green and neat behind the buildings, one more elevated than the others (Taipei 101).

I went through customs, received a new phone and phone number, and a guard led me through what felt like an obstacle course to finally reach my cab to take me to my hotel in downtown Taipei. The scenery of Taipei was beautiful as I peered out my window: lush and green landscapes, buildings of all different colors, roads intersecting like a game of Twister, and pedestrians everywhere.

Pedestrians were biking and walking—none without a mask covering their face and clothes covering their bodies. Scooters were almost as present as cars, weaving in and out of traffic like gazelles. The city was full of vibrant city-scape noise. Primary color temples, lots of 7-Elevens and Family Marts, old high-rises, and modern skyscrapers fill the downtown area. The area around each temple featured the natural beauty of aesthetic parks filled with green vegetation and decorative stone statues. The air smelled of fresh Pacific Ocean, fried food, and smoke.

I could hear cars honking, scooters accelerating, people eating, and mutters of Mandarin that I could barely make out. I saw Mandarin characters everywhere I looked—on buildings, cars, and street signs. I had entered a foreign context where I felt a newfound sense of adventure and the desire to discover.

I reached my hotel, a modern green and gold building on a busy street filled with nonstop-moving scooters and cars. I felt excited and nervous as I entered the hotel, signed my name, and began a five-day quarantine period.

I slowly acclimated as I peered out of my Green World Hotel window into the buzzing and magnificent view of downtown Taipei at 5 a.m.: eager scooter riders, pedestrians excitedly walking about in and out of the many street shops below, and the city skyline lighting up with the warm sunrise. Being from a small town in California and attending university in the south part of Los Angeles, I was not used to this amount of energy so early in the morning. I fell in love with the plethora of fun opportunities—from restaurants, temples, and museums to night markets, bubble tea, and friendly locals.

It was a beautiful and magical time for me. After meeting many Fulbright and Taiwanese government officials, I knew I had to write this book.

Religion has always been a massive part of my life.

I have always craved balance, and the Asian symbol of yin yang is of great importance to centeredness, collectiveness, and consciousness in Daoism/Taoism.

As a perpetual learner and traveler, digging deeper into a religious symbol and exploring my relationship with the sign in my life seemed extremely fun and essential for my growth in Asia.

I am a practicing Christian who attends church every weekend, reads the Bible, and prays regularly. The exploration of Daoism, Taoism, and Chinese Folk Religion (a combo of Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism) was an activity