Taoist Inner Alchemy: Master Huang Yuanji's Guide to the Way of Meditation

"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"--
A fascinating guide to the mental, physical, and esoteric spiritual transformative Taoist practices designed to increase longevity and unity with the world—with commentary and interpretation on the traditional text by a contemporary academic and meditation practitioner.Taoist alchemical practices are renowned for their mental, physical, and spiritually transformative benefits—including longevity and increased connection to the world around us. In this guide to Master Huang Yuanji’s Taoist classic, Ge Guolong presents the basics of inner alchemy and the tradition’s most essential meditation practices—along with explanations of the fundamental theories and methods one needs to actually start walking the path.Historically, Taoist teachers borrowed complex terminology from astrology, numerology, and metallurgical alchemy to describe the process of individual transformation that occurs as a result of long-term meditation practice. Ge Guolong demystifies that classical terminology, illuminating Taoism’s straightforward and eminently practical philosophy. These vivid explanations of Huang Yuanji’s discourses—a Taoist master from the late-Ming, early-Qing Dynasty (1636–1912)—are particularly striking for their clarity, relevance to day-to-day life, and close relationship to the philosophy of such works as the Tao Te Ching and Chuang-tzu. Synthesizing numerous streams of Chinese philosophy and elucidating their lived practice, Taoist Inner Alchemy is as an excellent entry point to discover the riches of traditional Taoist thought and meditation.