The Eight Trigrams (八卦) is an ancient symbolic system originating from China, widely used in philosophy, divination, medicine, and feng shui. This system consists of eight basic trigrams, each formed from three lines. Each line has two basic states: yang (—) and yin (–). The combination of these lines creates eight distinct trigrams, each carrying unique meanings and symbols, reflecting the constant interaction and transformation of elements in nature and human life.

These eight trigrams are:

• ☰ Qian (乾): represents Heaven (天). Five elements: Metal, associated with the northwest direction.
• ☱ Dui (兌): represents Lake (澤). Five elements: Metal, associated with the west direction.
• ☲ Li (離): represents Fire (火). Five elements: Fire, associated with the south direction.
• ☳ Zhen (震): represents Thunder (雷). Five elements: Wood, associated with the east direction.
• ☴ Xun (巽): represents Wind (風). Five elements: Wood, associated with the southeast direction.
• ☵ Kan (坎): represents Water (水). Five elements: Water, associated with the north direction.
• ☶ Gen (艮): represents Mountain (山). Five elements: Earth, associated with the northeast direction.
• ☷ Kun (坤): represents Earth (地). Five elements: Earth, associated with the southwest direction.

The Eight Trigrams originated from Fu Xi, a legendary figure in Chinese history, who is believed to have invented this system. Later, King Wen of Zhou expanded and refined the Eight Trigrams system, leading to the creation of the I Ching. The Eight Trigrams not only form an essential part of the I Ching but also serve as the foundation for many other theoretical systems in Chinese philosophy and culture.

In feng shui, the Eight Trigrams are used to identify and balance elements in living spaces to create harmony and bring good fortune, health, and prosperity to people. Each trigram is associated with a direction, color, season, and body part, helping feng shui practitioners provide optimal solutions for living and working spaces.

Additionally, the Eight Trigrams have wide applications in traditional Chinese medicine, particularly in acupuncture and energy cultivation, helping to maintain and balance bodily energy, enhance health, and prevent illnesses.