Yuanji, Huang: Taoist Inner Alchemy

"The concept of alchemy in Daoist philosophy describes the process of individual transformation that occurs as a result of long-term meditation practice. While that classical terminology may seem arcane, it actually beautifully represents Daoism‘s straightforward philosophy. In clear and engaging language, Ten Discourses on Daoist Alchemy shows us that alchemy is not something one does, but a process that unfolds when one ‘does nothing‘-meaning abiding in one‘s basic, primordial state. It teaches the entire process of Daoist inner alchemy cultivation through meditation practices and includes authentic explanations of fundamental theories and methods needed to actually start walking the path. To create this book, Ge Guolong, a contemporary academic, drew from his lectures on the ‘Oral Record from the Hall of Joyous Teaching,‘ written by Huang Yuanji -a Daoist master from the late-Ming, early-Qing Dynasty (1636-1912). Guolong‘s vivid explanation of this classic text will surprise readers with its clarity and practicality. Huang‘s teachings synthesize Daoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, and readers who have found Daoist books to be too vague, too interpretive, or too baroque to be practical will appreciate this book an excellent entry point to Daoist philosophy and its accessible meditation practices"