A concise guide to the history, theory, and practice of alchemy (the "great work")-the art of working with the energies of nature for spiritual development, healing, and transformation. Alchemy is a means of understanding and working in concert with the energies of nature for spiritual development, healing, and transformation. In this book, Brian Cotnoir offers a step-by-step introduction that explores alchemy's mysteries while illustrating its use as a modern spiritual system of attainment. He provides an overview of the history of alchemy, from the first meldings of Egyptian technology to the Middle Ages-the golden age of alchemy-to contemporary techniques. He demystifies the relationship between alchemy and chemistry, and provides evidence that alchemy is much more than a medieval form of psychotherapy. The guide also includes practical laboratory experiments that safely and intelligently lead readers to an understanding of this ancient art and spiritual practice. Provides step-by-step instruction for beginning a practice in alchemy - Explains the theory underlying the art and science of alchemy and how it works - Demystifies the relationship between alchemy and chemistry, while going well beyond the "psychological interpretation" advanced by nonscientists - Introduces the practice of alchemy to students of the Western magical arts.