Neidan Gong (Internal Alchemy) is one of the most profound and systematic mind-body cultivation systems within traditional Chinese culture.
1. The Core Theory: Dual Cultivation of Xing (Nature) and Ming (Life-Force)
This is the essential philosophical and practical foundation of Neidan Gong.
- Core Concepts: Introduce "Xing-Ming Shuang Xiu" (Dual Cultivation of Essence/Nature and Life-Force). Xing refers to the spirit, mind, and wisdom; Ming refers to the body, physiology, and vitality. Daoist Internal Alchemy emphasizes that both must be cultivated simultaneously and are inseparable.
- Goal of Cultivation: The ultimate goal is the process of "Refining Essence into Qi, Refining Qi into Shen (Spirit), and Refining Shen to Return to the Void" ($Lian Jing Hua Qi, Lian Qi Hua Shen, Lian Shen Huan Xu$). This aims to transcend the limits of life, achieving longevity and eventually "Union with the Dao".
- Theoretical Origin: Briefly describe its origins in Daoism (particularly the Zhong-Lu school represented by Zhongli Quan and Lü Dongbin), and its deep influence from the theories of the I Ching (Book of Changes) and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
2. The Masterpiece: The Secret of the Golden Flower (Tai Yi Jin Hua Zong Zhi)
This classic is crucial for introducing Neidan to the Western world, due to its influence on Western psychology.
- Classic’s Status: Introduce The Secret of the Golden Flower (Tai Yi Jin Hua Zong Zhi) as a key text of the Northern School of Daoist Internal Alchemy during the Qing Dynasty, systematically articulating the Qing Xiu (Purity Cultivation) method, which focuses primarily on the Xing (Nature/Mind) aspect through intention and contemplation.
- Key Practice: Highlight the technique of "Hui Guang Fan Zhao" (Turning the Light Around). This involves concentrating contemplation on the point between the eyebrows and the $Niwan$ Palace to gather and nurture the "Golden Flower" (Yuan Shen / True Intent), thereby achieving unity of body and mind and the fusion of Nature and Life-Force.
- Western Influence: Mention the renowned Western psychologist Carl Jung, who translated it as The Secret of the Golden Flower and wrote a commentary. This established the text as a vital bridge connecting Chinese Internal Alchemy with Western Analytical Psychology and emphasized its profound insight into the unconscious and self-integration.
3. The Practice: Three Passes, Nine Orifices, and the Microcosmic Orbit
Describe the unique anatomical and energy map of Neidan Gong, distinguishing it from general health Qigong.
- Internal Landscape: Describe the Daoist understanding of the body, such as the "Three Passes" ($Wei Lu$ Pass, $Jia Ji$ Pass, $Yu Zhen$ Pass), and the "Three Dantians" (Upper, Middle, and Lower $Dantian$)—the inner vital energy centers.
- Orbital Circulation (Zhou Tian): Focus on the "Microcosmic Orbit" ($Xiao Zhou Tian$) and the "Macrocosmic Orbit" ($Da Zhou Tian$). This involves using intention and breathing guidance to circulate the body's "True Qi" along the governing and conception vessels, clearing meridians, and ultimately forming the "Inner Elixir" (Neidan).
- Specific Stages: Briefly mention that the practice typically includes stages like Foundation Laying, Refining Essence into Qi, and Refining Qi into Shen, emphasizing that it is a gradual and long-term cultivation process.
4. Unique Benefits: Deep Life Transformation and Transcendental Wisdom
Emphasize that Neidan Gong leads to spiritual and intellectual elevation, not just physical health.
- Profound Healing: Internal Alchemy is believed to change a person's constitution at the source of life, not only healing illnesses but also boosting immunity, delaying aging, and even subtly transforming temperament and appearance.
- Wisdom and Enlightenment: Stress that the cultivation of "Xing" (Nature/Mind) can bring transcendental wisdom and a deep insight into the cosmos and life, leading to a high degree of spiritual freedom and liberation.
- Psychological Integration: Drawing on Jungian perspectives, the Neidan process is an Eastern practice of "Individuation," helping practitioners integrate their own Yin and Yang, consciousness, and unconsciousness to achieve perfected Nature and Mind.
5. International Spread and Modern Significance
Introduce the relevance and spread of Neidan Gong in the contemporary world.
- Cultural Resurgence: Note that Internal Alchemy is gaining interest globally, with many Western practitioners of martial arts, yoga, and meditation beginning to explore and study the Neidan system.
- Modern Application: Emphasize that Neidan methods offer an ancient yet effective solution for modern people dealing with stress, anxiety, and spiritual crises, providing significant value in the fields of mind-body medicine and stress management.
- Research Prospects: Discuss the potential for its theories (such as the Dantians and the Microcosmic Orbit) to inspire and validate research in modern biology, neuroscience, and consciousness studies.
