Taijitu prior to 1686. It combines several abstract shapes, including a "Taiji" symbol illustrating the mutual complement of man and woman. In socialist times, it was alternatively interpreted as two fish symbolizing vigilance, because fish never close their eyes. The modern symbol has also been widely used in martial arts, particularly t'ai chi ch'uan (Taijiquan), and Jeet Kune Do, since the 1970s. In this context, it is generally used to represent the interplay between hard and soft techniques. The dots in the modern "yin-yang symbol" have been given the additional interpretation of "intense interaction" between the complementary principles. Similarities can be
Chinese sun and moon mirrors respond with fire: the pure essence of "yang". When placed before the moon—the ultimate "yin" 陰 phenomenon in the world—they respond with water: the pure essence of "yin". Thus mirrors offer the paradigm for "proper responsiveness": they reflect the true essence of the ultimate "yin" and "yang"—the alpha and omega of phenomena in early Chinese cosmology." (Carr and Ivanhoe 2000: 56) Erin Cline says the early Chinese attributed mirrors to have a mysterious power and great religious significance. The ceremonial bronze "fusui" 夫遂 and "yangsui" 陽燧 mirrors were seen as active, responsive objects because they could be used to produce