Our task is to become conscious of the contents that press upward from the unconscious.—Carl Jung
Alchemy is the ancient art of transformation, turning lead into gold, base into noble. In inner alchemy, fears, insecurities, and unconscious patterns are your raw ores. This practice guides you through symbolic steps—Nigredo (blackening), Albedo (whitening), Citrinitas (yellowing), and Rubedo (reddening)—so you can transmute your shadow’s ‘base metals’ into the golden essence of your awakened Self.
Core Ideas:
- Inner alchemy mirrors the psyche’s transformative journey from shadow to light.
- Each alchemical phase corresponds to psychological stages: dissolution, purification, awakening, unification.
- Recognising base aspects (lead) is the first step towards spiritual gold.
- Cultivating awareness and intention accelerates transmutation.
Shadow Writing Prompts
Prompt 14a: Identifying Base Metals
List three ego traits or shadow impulses (pride, fear of loss, control, stubbornness) that act like lead in your psyche. For each, describe how it has weighed you down or limited your growth. Acknowledge its protective role and its cost.
Prompt 14b: Nigredo—Dissolution
Focus on one identified ‘base metal.’ Describe a recent moment when it dissolved, when you faced its darkness head-on, and what emerged from that confrontation. How did that experience begin the purification process?
Prompt 14c: Albedo and Citrinitas—Purification and Awakening
Reflect on the purification rituals you’ve employed: journalling, meditation, divination, ritual baths, or shadow dialogue. How have these practices ‘whitened’ your consciousness, revealing new clarity? And how have moments of insight (‘yellowing’) guided you towards emerging light?
Prompt 14d: Rubedo—Integration as Gold
Envision your highest essence, the gold born of transmutation. What core truths, values, or principles define this awakened Self? Write an oath or affirmation embodying this new gold, and outline one daily practice to reinforce it as you continue your alchemical journey.
Alchemy isn’t a myth; it’s the soul’s roadmap. Follow these steps with devotion and watch your inner gold emerge.
