Embracing Balance – A Cedar in a Yin-Yang Tattoo for Cedra

For Cedra, my sister, balance is not just a concept but a way of life. On her birthday, we celebrated this philosophy by creating her first tattoo, a special piece that weaves together her connection to the ancient Lebanese cedar and the timeless yin-yang symbol.

The design is a harmonious blend of nature and symbolism. The yin-yang symbol itself is formed from a serene mountain landscape, with the majestic Lebanese cedar—her namesake—standing tall as the black element within the white. Above the mountains, the night sky unfolds, with the moon representing the white dot in the black, surrounded by delicate stars. The forest of cedars sits peacefully under the moon, grounding the design with strength and timelessness. The style we chose was blackwork, a perfect match for this powerful visual.

The session took place in my Beirut home-studio, filled with a sense of celebration and love as we marked her birthday with this deeply meaningful tattoo. Cedra has been embracing the concept of yin-yang in her life, and this tattoo became a reflection of that personal journey. By combining the yin-yang’s symbolism of balance with the cedar tree, a symbol of resilience and heritage, the tattoo stands as a reminder of the harmony we find in both nature and life.

As this was her first tattoo, the experience held a special significance for both of us. We spent the session talking, laughing, and enjoying the moment, and when the final design was complete, Cedra couldn’t have been happier with the result. The tattoo became more than just an image on her arm—it’s a celebration of who she is and the beautiful balance she strives for.

Creating this piece for Cedra was a joy, and seeing her wear it with pride fills me with happiness. It was the perfect way to celebrate her birthday and her new look, a meaningful expression of balance, nature, and the deep connection we share.