1. CALCINATION
The process of Calcination is the beginning stage in alchemy. To calcine something is to burn it until it is reduced to its essence. This is the false identity or poisoning ego that fights desperately for its survival. It is crucial to remove it from our inner selves. That way we will step up into a new level of spirituality. That beckons a liberation from the impurities of an inflated pride by letting a new self be purified through the sword (active Fire in alchemy), and achieve the maturity of the soul.

2. DISSOLUTION
This kind of operation demands a cycle of meditation, which is vital for a successful dilution of the parts into a fluid condition – water (emotions). True meditation and reflection brings us an acknowledgement of all things within us and the elements of creation – these are, in its essence, made of the same primitive substance. The operation occurs in the interior to unravel our energy channels, recharging every single cell. This deep immersion opens you a need door.

3. SEPARATION
This stage (ruled by the element Air) is defined by the division of thoughts and emotions acquired by the Dissolution. The separation of the elements allows us to observe them more clearly. Their true nature and shape are finally exposed to us. Such manifestation dissipates the fog of ignorance and obstinacy. The door of self-improvement lets the light of dawn in. This process makes us aware of our authentic feelings. The violence of reality might find us off guard, but this could be the only true way to move forward. The light may hurt our eyes at first but will soon reveal our paths. Solve et Coagula – dissolve everything that hurts, and unite what gives us happiness.

4. CONJUNCTION
The separated elements demand a new combination to find the balance. The male and female principles are significant for every human being, regarding physical and spiritual lucidity. The Conjunction (ruled by Earth) provides a bed for the royal marriage between the Sun (the male) and the Moon (the female), which is the improvement and evolution of the spiritual self in its search for perfection. The merge of dualities helps the empowerment of ourselves.

5. FERMENTATION
The stage of Fermentation is also a metaphor for pregnancy and fecundation, as well as an inspiration from above that reanimates and enlightens the soul.
This is a two-part process. Firstly, the Putrefaction entwines the father and the mother. Matter is allowed to break down and decompose. They die so the child can be born, and their bodies will be the fertiliser for the seed. As we experience this phase, our consciousness confronts the darker side.In the second part, the Conjunction child is born. The forces of the spirit above are merged with the matter below. Here you have the chance to improve yourself, in an effort of persistence.

^{Post scriptum: Putrefaction is a complex concept that entwines the psychological and spiritual elements needed during the stage of Fermentation. Putrefaction implies the decomposition and decay of matter as part of a natural process. It can be depicted in two ways: as a way of self-discovery towards a psychological renewal akin to what we see in The Hermit; or as form to reduce ourselves to the bare essence and pure energy, like we can see in these Seven Stages of the Alchemy in the Vessels. In other words, our full potential cannot be achieved without putrefaction.}

6. DISTILLATION
Distillation is the process of boiling the elixirs to increase purity. 
“In Distillation many bitter, sharp, and acrid things become very sweet, like honey, sugar, or manna; and, on the other hand, many sweet things, such as honey, sugar, or manna become sharp (…)”, The Hermetic and Alchemical Writings of Paracelsus.
The final purge before the enlightenment happens in this stage. Here are no impurities left, for the environment for an apotheosis is attained in a purification of the spirit.

7. COAGULATION
The perfect substance is found. In the most physical way, we observe a fluid state change into a thickened mass. This process is a metaphor for the elevated self.
Maturity is finally achieved and body, mind and soul find the perfect balance among themselves. We will then become truly free in our minds, and our consciousness will be able to connect spirit and soul in perfect harmony. The rebirth of a beautiful new being is revealed.