We offer here an intriguing perspective on the transformation of consciousness and correlating spiritual growth with brain development:

• Nigredo (Blackening): The first step. This is where one confronts the 'shadow' self. Neurophysiologically, this could be seen as a period where the individual experiences a stress response, with heightened activity in the limbic system, particularly the amygdala, which processes emotions such as fear and anxiety. The prefrontal cortex (PFC) might show increased activity as it works to modulate these responses, leading to a period of introspection. We can have sometimes crisis. The dorsal branch of the vagus nerve might be involved in downregulating the body from the 'freeze' response of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is often associated with feelings of stuckness or numbness that come from trauma or deeply suppressed emotions. The end result will be a sense of peace. A sense of  "essence" with increased stimulation of the ventral vagal. that will be the starting block of the following phases. In this phase awareness is finally detached from automatic reactions to mundane things.

• Albedo (Whitening): Representing purification, this phase could involve the strengthening of neural pathways associated with higher-order processing and self-regulation. The seven planets metaphorically represent ascending through levels of consciousness or psychological growth. Neurophysiologically, this might involve increased synchronization between the PFC and regions like the anterior cingulate cortex, leading to improved emotional regulation and insight. Dissociation from the conventional sense of time and space could be attributed to alterations in the function of the default mode network (DMN), a network of brain regions that are active when the mind is at rest and not focused on the outside world. The burst of energy can be correlated with a symultaneous activation of the sympathetic and parasympathetic branch followed by an activation of the dorsal vagus. The sense of unity with the universe might be correlated witha contemporary decreased activity in the parietal lobes, which are involved in spatial orientation and the distinction between self and environment. The ability to deactivate the parietal lobes will be retained in the following phases. 

• Citrinitas (Yellowing): Symbolizing the dawn of knowledge, in neuroscientific terms, this could reflect the consolidation of new insights and behaviors. The reward system, including the release of dopamine, reinforces these pathways and the sense of bliss can be part of it. This integration process involves neuroplastic changes that solidify the transformation initiated in the earlier stages.

• Rubedo (Reddening): The final phase of alchemy, the rubedo, is the achievement of wholeness and enlightenment. Neurophysiologically, this might manifest as a balance between arousal and rest, indicated by increased alpha and theta brainwave synchronization. The sense of being in reality but also apart from it suggests a level of consciousness where one is fully aware yet not limited by the typical self-constructed narratives. There are no more projections. This might involve a new way of engaging with the parietal lobes: one is aware of the space and sense of self that these brain regions help to construct, yet can transcend them, engaging with the world with a transformed consciousness.

In this framework, the alchemical transformation mirrors the process of neurological and psychological growth, suggesting that as one evolves through these stages, there is a progressive shift in brain function and structure. This shift moves from basic survival instincts to a more integrated, self-aware, and expansive state of being. The process is dynamic, involving both the downregulation of certain neural pathways and the upregulation of others, in line with the principles of neuroplasticity and self-directed neurodevelopment. The final stage of rubedo reflects a state where the individual is not only self-actualized but also self-transcended, able to engage with reality from a place of higher consciousness that touches the absolute while staying here.