The Alchemy of Self :: From Intention to Identity
Author :: Jess Marie, CVC, CAHC, INHC, RYT 🌻
the meraki method recognizes that true transformation requires a willingness to engage with the often painful or uncomfortable aspects of ourselves and our lives, and to work through them in order to integrate & heal. Through this process, we can access untapped potential & reclaim lost parts of ourselves. Unlike other methods that may focus on achieving specific goals &/or managing symptoms, the meraki method’s use of Alchemy of Self goes deeper to explore the underlying patterns & programming that shape our lives. Alchemy of Self offers a path not only to personal growth & healing, but to a more authentic & fulfilling life.
alchemy
Vedic & Spiritual Alchemy is an ancient practice that originated in the Middle East & Europe during the medieval period. It’s a spiritual discipline that involves the transformation of the Self from a base or imperfect state to a more evolved / enlightened state. Spiritual Alchemy involves a range of practices, including meditation, contemplation, ritual, and symbolic interpretation, and draws heavily on the language & symbolism of alchemical texts. The symbolic language and range of practices offers one an understanding of the process of transformation and for working with the inner alchemical processes of the psyche.
the process of Intention to Identity
In the ancient wisdom of Vedic philosophy, the journey / process from a mere thought to an integral part of one’s Being (Alchemy of Self) is simple, yet profound ::
Intention (Sankalpa): The seed of change is planted in the fertile soil of one’s consciousness. An intention is born; potential.
Behavior: The intention sprouts, manifesting as conscious action. One begins to align deeds with aspirations.
Habit: With repetition, the behavior becomes automatic, like water carving a path through stone, one’s actions create neural pathways.
Practice (Abhyasa): The habit deepens into a discipline. One cultivates it with awareness & dedication, refining the approach.
Second Nature: The practice becomes effortless. It's no longer something one ‘does’, but a natural expression of who they’re becoming.
Identity: Finally, the intention fully integrates. It’s now inseparable from one’s sense of Self - one’s Being.
This process mirrors the Vedic concept of Samskara - the impressions that shape one’s character. By consciously cultivating positive intentions, one can reshape their Samskaras and, ultimately, one’s Self.
Samskara
In Vedic philosophy, Samskaras are subtle impressions left on the subconscious mind by our experiences, actions, and thoughts. These impressions accumulate over time, shaping one’s personality, habits, and tendencies. The concept of Samskara is integral to understanding the the alchemy of Self.
Key Aspects:
Karmic Seeds: Samskaras are often described as "karmic seeds" that influence one’s future actions & experiences.
Cyclical Nature: They create a Self-reinforcing cycle: one’s actions create Samskaras, which in turn influence one’s future actions.
Layers of Conditioning: Samskaras can be thought of as layers of conditioning that obscure one’s true nature (Atman).
Potential for Change: While some Samskaras are deeply ingrained, they can be modified or replaced through conscious effort.
The Vedic Perspective on Transformation:
Vasanas & Samskaras: Vasanas are deeper, more ingrained tendencies that arise from accumulated Samskaras. Alchemy of Self involves gradually replacing negative Vasanas with positive ones.
Prarabdha, Sanchita, & Agami Karma:
Prarabdha Karma: The portion of past karma being experienced in one’s current lifetime.
Sanchita Karma: The accumulated karma from past lives.
Agami Karma: New karma being created in the present. The transformation process helps create positive Agami Karma, gradually influencing one’s Prarabdha & Sanchita Karma.
Gunas (Sattva | Rajas | Tamas): The three qualities of nature that influence all creation. The Alchemy of Self often involves moving from Tamas (inertia) through Rajas (activity) to Sattva (harmony & balance).
Chitta Prasadanam: The purification of the ‘mind-stuff’ (Chitta), which is essential for spiritual growth & transformation.
Viveka & Vairagya:
Viveka: Discrimination between the real & the unreal.
Vairagya: Detachment from worldly desires. Both are crucial in the intention to identity process.
Antaranga & Bahiranga Sadhana:
Antaranga: Internal practices (dhyana (meditation) & Self-reflection)
Bahiranga: External practices (rituals, service); Both types of practices contribute to the transformation process.
Svadhyaya: Self-study, including the study of scriptures & Self-reflection, which plays a vital role in conscious transformation.
Ishvara Pranidhana: Surrender to Source | The Divine | The Universe , which can accelerate the transformation process by aligning individual will with cosmic will.
The Alchemy of Self can be seen as a practical application of these Vedic concepts. It provides a framework for consciously shaping one’s Samskaras, balancing one’s Gunas, creating positive Karma, and ultimately realizing one’s true nature.
As a Vedic Counselor, I guide my clients through their personal transformation journey, helping them navigate the subtle realms of consciousness and manifest positive change in their lives.
experience the transformative process of Self-discovery & personal growth.
As a Vedic Counselor, I hold sacred space for a harmonious synergy that enhances mental health support & facilitates the transformation of consciousness.
If you're interested in exploring Vedic Counseling for mental health support, be sure to seek care from a qualified Vedic counselor (like me! 🌻) to learn more about this ancient & effective approach to healing.