Inner Alchemy, or NeiDan (“nay-dawn”), is one of the treasures of the Daoist tradition. It is a method of meditative practice including mudras, mantras, movements and visualization that work together to remove the obstacles in our bodies and minds, opening us to see things as they truly are. At the same time, Inner Alchemy is an articulation of the View, a model for understanding ultimate reality. Weaving together the metaphors of agricultural cultivation (seed, sprout, flower, fruit) and chemical transmutation (lead, mercury, gold), Inner Alchemy challenges us to overcome the limits of our current understanding. It aligns our minds like the needle of a compass, guiding us home.

Join Daoist priest and master alchemist Ian Duncan for this immersive week of transformative practice and Daoist teachings. Experience the warmth and strength of practicing with the community of committed practitioners associated with Ian’s Northern Dipper Temple.

Whether you are newly inspired or a seasoned practitioner and meditator, you will find the support you need to deepen your relationship to the ineffable Mystery and clarify the method, meaning and purpose of stepping toward emptiness - the Daoist path to Enlightenment.

The retreat will include movement and stillness meditations, and teachings from the Scripture of the Yin Talisman, and the Scripture on Clarity and Stillness, and the Heart Seal Scripture. Participants will practice silence outside of class discussion. Meals will be vegetarian.

Monday, April 27th