C. G. Jung had a deep interest in alchemy and founded many ways as to how we can develop full self-knowledge. Alchemy is also said to be the ancient practice of trying to turn lead into gold. If we put this concept in spiritual terms, it could mean turning into our "golden" or best version of ourselves. Using the process of spiritual alchemy leads to deeper knowledge and awakenings. It is the transmutation of energies. Alchemy includes lots of symbolism and connections between many concepts. Alchemists use purification and transformation. It is the process that allows one to hear the unique voice of their soul.

​

The 7 Stages of Spiritual Alchemy

​

Calcination

Calcination is the process of breaking down our pride, self-sabotaging behavior, and self-doubt. In other words, it is the releasing of the parts of ourselves that are in the way of our happiness. It is the act of destroying the old, to build something new so that we may reconnect with our natural state of being. It is the ridding of poor habits and stubbornness. Calcination eliminates the parts that limit us. It burns the ego's influence away and obstacles. 

​

Dissolution

This is the stage of feeling lost and having a lack of clarity. Dissolution is the beginning stage of the spiritual awakening process. The goal in this stage is to accept and express our emotions. Experiences from the past may be resurfaced so that we can feel those emotions and detach from them. These emotions could be from trauma and painful events. We rely on gut reactions in this stage, which then connects us to the deeper parts of the subconscious. Some may even connect with the creative arts, such as writing, painting, and dancing. 

​

Separation

The wise decisions start rolling in within this stage. We deepen our understanding of our thoughts and emotions and separate them from how we have been conditioned to think and feel. This includes diving into shadow work and forgiving others. This stage is when one becomes aware of their authentic feelings. 

​

Conjunction

This is the halfway point in the journey and it includes a renewed sense of clarity and purpose. It is the stage of beholding the new conscious awareness developed. Journaling, solitude, and meditation may come into use in this stage. It is allowing all of the unconscious to become conscious. 

​

Fermentation

Fermentation is the beginning stage of the rebirth. It is the death of old patterns, beliefs, and thoughts. It is also the beginning process of the birth into our highest self. It includes Putrefaction, which is the letting go of remaining influences of the ego. A newly unified vision begins to take place and there is more inner peace and stillness. 

​

Distillation

It is the level of further purification and embracing the light as well as the dark. This is the stage where one becomes more mature with their perception of things. They work with the soul, rather than the ego, to create their life. This Distillation stage makes us more free and independent in thought and Spirit. They now have learned to find ways to live from a place of inner peace - no matter what circumstance. This stage may also be identified with self-realization. 

​

Coagulation

It is the stage where one becomes free from their mind. It is the state without duality and a permanent stage of elevated consciousness. It is a deeply connected state with the universe, source, and ourselves. 

​

​