As Within, So Without
To understand the map of Taoist alchemy, it is helpful to explain the sequence of practice. At any level, it works with balancing yin and yang and harmonizing the five elements. First, this starts inside the body. Then, it moves to the level of the planet Earth. From there, the alchemist works with these energies at the level of the solar system, then the stars of our galaxy, next the aspects of spirit and matter, and finally merging with the Tao itself. It is worth thinking of this process as climbing a sacred mountain or building a great cathedral. It is done from the ground up and without skipping steps.
-The Alchemist’s Tao Te Ching: Transforming Your Lead Into Gold https://www.amazon.com/dp/1718636970/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_6zfcDb2RVJHM1