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Hey, Ive noticed that in most of the ancient alchemical texts, the aim of the practices is to produce a light that is described by different books as a violetish, reddish, yellowish, purpleish, goldish color. This light is typically called the golden elixir. In Taoist yoga translated by charles luk the elixir is the light of vitality, and manifests in the lower dan tien. This elixir should be driven up to the light of essential nature (universally described as white or clear) to create the immortal fetus. In Chang po tuan and lui i-mings writings Understanding Reality, 400 Words on the Golden Elixer, and the Inner Teachings of Taoism, as translated by thomas cleary, the teachings seem to point to an apprehension of this light by a type of trance/ serenity meditation. I can see how this can open up the microcosmic orbit naturally, and possibly relate to the qigong centric teachings of alchemy. Decibelle posts her interpretation of these texts here. http://thedaobums.com/topic/33950-400-words-on-the-gold-elixir/ She seems to indicate that working with the light of essential nature (turning the light around) is the key here. I have noticed references to a purple light in zen writings. I believe there is a notable mention in the Sutra of Hui Neng (the sixth patriarch) as translated by Thomas Cleary, but I will have to verify this. I believe that Mantak Chia has a book out about Golden Elixir Qigong referring to saliva. I believe that in his system the sexual energy is brought to the pineal gland to activate the hormones that are secreted into the saliva. This particular practice sounds similar to some yoga practices relating to Kundalini. Glenn morris refers to the Phosphenes behind the Eyes changing colors in his works. Does anyone know anything about what the golden elixir is, how to cultivate it and what to do with it when you've got it? It seems so central in Taoist Alchemy that im surprised we don't mention it more. Love and Light Tony