There are many misconceptions about the art of alchemy. Laypersons who have little or no knowledge about it, but have heard the term, often think of alchemy as something miraculous or magical. Turning water into wine by virtue of simple incantation is the most common myth surrounding it. However, alchemy is considered to be a discipline that teaches the ideals of endless possibilities.

Alchemical transformation originates within the spiritual consciousness of the alchemist. Ritualistic in nature, alchemy in essence, is a spiritual awakening. Through specific rituals that have been practiced for thousands of years, spiritual enlightenment can occur. At least, that is the goal of many who practice alchemy. Spiritual enlightenment is the transformation of the soul or spirit that resides within all people. New age enthusiasts define transformation as a complete change. A conceptual evolution for the soul itself.

Many Eastern religions and philosophies embrace the basis of alchemical transformation through spiritual coaching and counselling. There is a philosophical paradigm known as Raja Yoga, which emphasizes more of a spiritual embodiment, than a physical one. Instead of a series of physical positioning that is found in the more common forms of yoga, Raja Yoga operates on the premise that through meditation coupled with the more traditional yoga positions, one can achieve transformation.

Translated as "the Royal path", Raja Yoga operates on the notion that the practitioner can change themselves into a completely different person. However, to achieve this end, a visual depiction of the kind of person that the practitioner desires to become is required. That imagined persona can be created to be a person of virtue, spiritual wealth or a person of great achievements. The simple summation of what is being described is a change to a positive self image from one that had been negative.

Characteristically, alchemists who become spiritually inclined over time, find that there is a requirement for great introspection. Privacy, alone time, concentration and sometimes loneliness, are the results of seeking spiritual enlightenment. Since alchemical transformation requires such a high level of concentration, time and practice, many find that they must seek out others with similar goals. Therefore, those who engage in this alternative philosophy, often become a member of entirely new society, a society where spiritual counselling is necessary to achieve higher levels of enlightenment and understanding.

If transformation in spiritual enlightenment does occur, it is often gradual over a lengthy period of time. However, those whom a practitioner has been accustomed to, such as friends and family, will see a marked difference. Confidence and self-assurance can only be achieved through the use of perfected alchemical transformation techniques such as yoga or pure meditation.

The philosophies of many Eastern cultures have permeated the Western civilizations of the world. Everyday, people are discovering the benefits of alchemy and spiritual enlightenment. Though not intended to replace organized religion, these Eastern cultures simply utilize the simple power of concentration through various forms of meditation and physical positioning. Alchemical transformation may be the way for many to gain a self-assurance that they need to operate in such an insecure world.