The I Ching is a book (apparently the oldest one in continuous use) and a numerological system based on sixty-four six lined hexagrams. These hexagrams are combinations of Yin and Yang symbology. In very general terms, the Yin is the negative, dark, and feminine. And the Yang the positive, bright and masculine. These I Ching Hexagrams comprise a binary of straight and broken lines constructed in a pile from the bottom up. Yin are the broken lines. The yang, the straight unbroken ones. “The book of Changes” (as it’s translated) focuses on looking at these changes and their effect on human life. Underlying the I Ching is the belief that understanding patterns of nature and the cycles of change will help us make the best decisions in our lives. Some of you may balk at the idea of drawing analogies between such an advanced ancient philosophy and the simple sport of running. Yet, the I Ching represents all things, and I believe comparisons are more than justified, given that ‘good’ running is synonymous with balance. It is the seeking of this balance that we ought to aim for if we want to be our best running selves. The best we can be.
© 2024 Scott Andrew Brown
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