Taoist Inner Alchemy, the I Ching & Fusion of the Five Elements

tigers and monk painting

Fusion of the Five Elements is a collection of meditative/energy-work “formulas” handed down for centuries, collected in the “Book of the Golden Flower.”  They require experience with the Microcosmic Orbit, the 5 Elements (6 Healing Sounds Practice is ideal) and a  meditative focus or a willingness to cultivate it.  They are beautiful and complex and deeply transformative, but without a foundation, you may get lost and discouraged.These practices are close to my heart.  They are old and they are powerful,  but they are not always simple or easy.  My commitment is to share them in a way that you feel supported and clear about your path. 

A wonderful introduction is Tao Divination: the I Ching. Sometimes I offer this as a first class of a series on Inner Alchemy, as an opening for the practices that follow. I also offer it separately, depending on the experience and interest of current students. More than a means to predict the future, it is a meditative path to cultivating trust in spirit and curiosity… and to inquire what you might be paying attention to in this moment.

 With “Formula 1” of Fusion, we ‘tattoo’ the Bagua {the main Taoist mandala you see below} onto our body using visual imagery, intention,touch and chanting… Imprinting the “8 forces” into our energy body.  In further Formulas, we use this tattooed mandala as a space to gather, combine and distill the 5 Elemental energies drawn from our organs… We use this deep energy to create Luminous Pearls and move them through meridians and channels to nourish our organs, to grow our compassion and more.

Later formulas call in the 4 Celestial Animals to surround and protect us; Reach outward to the 5 Elemental Planets and ultimately we cultivate a version of ourselves that takes us beyond the confines of daily life.

Often, these are taught once, then you’re on your own to practice at home… But in the “olden times” you would have practiced with your mentor for months before moving forward.  My hope is to find a middle way between those two teaching methods.  My goal is for us to enjoy and learn these practices at a pace that works for everyone.  We will work all 9 “Formula” over time, progressing as everyone feels is right. They are beautiful and transformative.  So let’s not rush.

Because of the nature of this material, and my assumption that you are already my student or at least are familiar with basic practices… I don’t offer free introductory classes. I invite you to attend any (or all) free introductory classes to my foundation practice courses and I’m happy to set a time to talk one on one to answer any questions you may have before you register.

The Microcosmic Orbit and the 6 Healing Sounds are usually prerequisites (from me or any other teacher).  If you feel you have equivalent practice experience, I’m happy to speak with you… And if you have taken both my Abundant Balance (Microcosmic Orbit) class and my Emotional Wisdom (6 Healing Sounds) class, you know the foundation tools you’ll need.

Note:  Handouts will be given in class, but a notebook is recommended.  

Currently Offering this material in series of three 2-hour classes on Wednesdays.  See “Wednesday Group Classes” page for dates and details.

Books & Materials:  As usual you will receive handouts, but for this work I highly recommend purchasing the earlier edition of Mantak Chia’s book “Fusion of the Five Elements” (blue/purple cover).  It is also helpful to purchase the later, revised edition with the Yellow cover.  Often these can be found on used book websites for significant savings.