Nutrition, supplementation, as well as Daoist alchemy, all collectively aim at achieving balance in the body and mind. While they have different origins and methodologies, the conceptual similarities are very pronounced.
Nutrition and supplementation are grounded in the principles of Western science, which aims to understand the underlying mechanisms of the body and develop interventions based on empirical evidence. Nutrition focuses on the quality and quantity of food along with fluid intake to support the body’s functions, while supplementation involves taking additional nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, or herbs, to fill any gaps in nutrition or address specific health concerns.
Daoist alchemy is a traditional Chinese practice that seeks to balance and harmonize the body, mind, and spirit through a variety of practices, including meditation, Qi Gong, and herbal medicine. At the core of Daoist alchemy is the belief in the unity of nature and the human body, and the importance of cultivating a harmonious relationship between the two. In this sense, Daoist alchemy is not solely focused on nutrition or supplementation, but instead encompasses a broader range of practices that work together to achieve balance.
One of the key principles in Daoist alchemy is the concept of Yin and Yang, which represents the complementary and interdependent forces of the universe. In the context of the human body, Yin and Yang correspond to different organ systems, emotions, and bodily functions. The goal of Daoist alchemy is to maintain appropriate balance between Yin and Yang within the body, to promote health and longevity.
In terms of proper balance, both nutrition and Daoist alchemy emphasize the importance of moderation and avoiding extremes. For example, excessive consumption of certain nutrients or herbs can have negative effects on the body, just as an excess of emotion or activity can create an imbalance in the body and mind.
While nutrition and supplementation are grounded in Western science, and Daoist alchemy is marked as traditional Chinese practice, both approaches share the goal of maintaining balance in the body and mind. They at times differ in their specific methodologies and underlying philosophies, but both thoroughly emphasize the importance of proper balance and moderation to hone optimal health and well-being.
From the Dao De Jing, Chapter 77
(道德经, 第七十七章): “天之道，损有余而补不足。人之道则不然，损不足以奉有余。”
“Tiān zhī dào, sǔn yǒu yú ér bǔ bùzú. Rén zhī dào zé bù rán, sǔn bùzú yǐ fèng yǒu yú.”
“The Dao of heaven is to take from what is in excess and give to what is deficient. The Dao of humans is not so. We take away from the deficient to add to the already excessive.”
The quote emphasizes the importance of balance and moderation in both nutrition and Daoist alchemy. The Daoist alchemist seeks to balance the body and mind by supplementing what is deficient and reducing what is excessive.
From the Hua Hu Jing, Chapter 10
(化胡经, 第十章): “心如铁，形如泥。自然真，如同子母。”
“Xīn rú tiě, xíng rú ní. Zìrán zhēn, rú tóng zǐmǔ.”
“The mind is like iron, the body like clay. When nature is true, it is like the mother and child.”
This line elucidates the importance of cultivating a strong and balanced mind and body in Daoist alchemy. Just as iron and clay must be properly balanced to form a strong structure, the mind and body must be in balance to achieve optimal health and well-being.
From the Jade Emperor Mind Seal Classic
(玉皇心印经): “上清真一，常若无物，深藏玄机，独立道场。”
“Shàng qīng zhēn yī, cháng ruò wú wù, shēn cáng xuán jī, dú lì dàochǎng.”
“The highest realm is like nothingness, with deep and mysterious mechanisms, standing alone in the Daoist practice.”
Here we are told the importance of cultivating a deep and profound understanding of the body, mind, and spirit (shen) in Daoist alchemy. Through proper balance and cultivation, the Daoist alchemist can achieve a higher realm of existence and a deeper connection with the Dao.
May your individual practice and discipline bring you health and clarity.
Walking Backwards 