The Seven Stages of Alchemy:

1. Calcination

Calcination marks the initial phase of alchemy, where burning reduces substances to ashes.

This symbolises a false self or toxic ego that clings fiercely to existence. Removing this ego is essential for our spiritual growth. By purifying ourselves of pride and impurities, we can elevate to a higher level of spirituality and cultivate a matured soul.

2. Dissolution 

This process involves a meditative cycle, which is key to turning the parts into a smooth, flowing state. “The outcome of true meditation is a clear consciousness that everything inside us and in creation comes from the same primal source.” The process happens internally to open energy channels and refresh each cell.

3. Separation

This stage involves dividing thoughts and emotions through dissolution. Separating these elements allows us to see them more clearly, revealing their true nature and form. This clarity dispels ignorance and stubbornness, opening the door to self-improvement and new beginnings.

The process helps us recognise our genuine feelings. Though harsh realities may catch us unprepared, facing them might be the only way to progress. The initial brightness of insight may be intense, but it will quickly illuminate our true paths.

4. Conjunction

The separated elements require a new union to achieve balance. The male and female principles are essential for each person, contributing to their physical and spiritual clarity. This union symbolises the sacred marriage between the Sun (masculine) and the Moon (feminine), representing the growth and evolution of the spiritual self in pursuit of perfection.

5. Fermentation

The Fermentation stage also symbolises pregnancy and fecundation, resembling a divine inspiration that revives and enlightens the soul. It unfolds in two parts: first, “Putrefaction,” where the father and mother's bodies break down and decompose. This process allows the child to be conceived, with their bodies serving as the fertilising matter for the seed. During this phase, our consciousness confronts its darker aspects. In the second part, the " conjunction, " the child is born, and the divine forces from Above merge with the physical matter below.

6. Distillation 

Distillation involves boiling the elixirs to enhance purity. Paracelsus notes that during distillation, many bitter, sharp, and acrid substances transform into something sweet, like honey, sugar, or manna; conversely, sweet substances also change. This stage represents the final purification before enlightenment, where all impurities are removed, leading to a state of spiritual apotheosis.

7. Coagulation

The ideal substance is discovered. Physically, we see a fluid transforming into a dense mass. This serves as a metaphor for the elevated self, where maturity is reached, and the body, spirit, and soul attain perfect harmony. We become genuinely free from the mind, allowing our consciousness to unite heart and soul in perfect accord. We witness the rebirth of a beautiful new being.