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The Subtle Method of Gathering and Refining

By gathering, we mean collecting the yang lead from the other to refine the vapor of the seed of the pearl within. The yang lead is the soul of the earth hidden in the extreme yin. Obtained during the process of refining the body, it can be used to tame the mercury and transform it into cinnabar grains. Understanding Reality says: “Use the soul of the earth to capture the cinnabar grains of mercury. If only people knew how to gather and refine this treasure!”

What do we mean by gathering? Gathering is the act of not-gathering. What do we mean by refining? Refining is the process of not-refining. What do we mean by not-gathering? It means stilling the tiger and keeping the dragon within. It also means holding on to the female and not focusing on the male. On the first day of the lunar month, vapor begins to rise. Following the movement of the vapor, the spirit rises as well, and both are brought into the cauldron. All this occurs naturally. This is why we say that gathering is the act of not-gathering. What do we mean by not-refining? It refers to the presence of the other in my home. When medicine meets fire, yin will dissolve and yang will strengthen. When yang is accumulated in the cauldron, it will circulate naturally. This is why we say that the process of refining is not-refining. However, during the times of gathering and refining, you must focus the spirit. The breath must be regulated and the spirit must be focused before gathering and refining can occur. When gathering and refining are complete, the generative energy will be transmuted into vapor. When sufficient vapor has accumulated inside the body, the belly will be solid and full, and the internal pill will materialize.