Yang energy is like the sun at high noon, shining vibrantly with strength. It’s bright and constant. Even on rainy or cloudy days, the sun is still present above the clouds. Similarly, the scent of oranges just makes you happy and cheery, feeling strong and energetic. Alice Waters (founder of Chez Panisse), the American pioneer of a culinary philosophy that maintains that cooking should be based on the finest and freshest seasonal ingredients that are produced sustainably and locally, says that since oranges are available year-round, they can brighten up even the darkest of winter days and provide much-needed immune system support no matter what the season. When we smell the orange scent, that olfactory information connects directly with us and can create deep emotional and behavioral transformations in our inner and outer spaces. The yang scent of oranges is also said to be relaxing and support our immune systems. A study in 2000 found that patients in a dental office showed reduced levels of anxiety when orange oil was diffused there. Finally, the symbolism of oranges contributes to their yang attributes. Originally from China, the fruit is related to wealth and good luck. The color and appearance resemble gold. The circle or round shape symbolizes completeness and wholeness as there is no beginning and no end. Spray a little orange essential oil to attract some sunny, auspicious, and uplifting energy into your life! Related reads: Cho is a sought-after expert in the fields of feng shui and interior architecture. She is the owner of Anjie Cho Architect, co-founder of the Mindful Design Feng Shui School, and founder of Holistic Spaces which hosts a blog, podcast and online store. She is also an assistant teacher of dharma arts and meditation in the Shambhala Buddhist lineage. Cho is a regular blog contributor to MindBodyGreen and has been featured in dozens of publications including: the New York Times, Domino Magazine and BuzzFeed.
