I have finished studying the first 18 lessons of SRF, and have been invited to be initiated into Kriya Yoga. I have not yet learned the energization exercises well enough to practice them regularly. Can I still apply for Kriya Yoga now, or should I wait until I regularly practice the exercises?

If a close family member (non-SRF) recently committed suicide, how can we help them, what was Master's advice?

How much news is recommended to stay current with events but not so much that it lowers energy given the state of the world?

In the very first lesson, and subsequently, Master talks of the importance of practicing meditation with the eyes half opened. After many, many years of practicing this, I am no better able to accomplish this technique. Rather than my eyes watering, they become extremely dry and irritated causing reflexive blinking. What to do?

In the 2025 SRF Magazine, on page 7, there is a diagram illustrating the cycle of the yugas. It is superimposed on the western astrological cycle.

My first confusion is that I didn’t know that the hindu cosmology intersected with western astrology. Where in Master’s lessons or writings might I find such reference and explanation.

Secondly, according to western astrological criteria, we are in Pisces at the fringe of Aquarius. This is based on the precession of the equinoxes using the vernal equinox as the cardinal point. The chart in the magazine shows us in Virgo using the autumnal equinox as the determinant. I am confused as to why.

Lastly, the diagram indicates a nearest point, and we currently positioned near the farthest point. I am at loss to understand nearest and farthest from what.

Many thanks for clarification.

We have learned that humanity is now in the ascending Dwapara Yuga, but we see considerable influences of Kali Yuga still at play, especially at this present time, maybe more than ever in my lifetime! It is too easy to closely monitor current events like a daily soap opera. What are some of the techniques you monastics might be using to stay balanced at this time?

When I meditate with my legs crossed (sukhasana) they fall asleep. From a medical standpoint I am not worried about it being harmful. Should I use this discomfort as a way to practice tuning out uncomfortable sensations during meditation, or should I take it as a sign that I should change meditation positions? Thank you.

Please share guidance on how optimize journaling to help us to progress on the spiritual path. Considering, journaling can be more than just writing down experiences and feelings of the day. It can be more than strategizing how to bring about positive change though conscious reasoning. When drawn to make changes to improve my walk with God and Guru, how can a journal be utilized to help guide to in choices of daily living: perhaps even helping us identify areas where we can focus to improve and the steps needed.

I’m 51 years old, working in IT industry. I enjoy my work, and like to serve junior folks, helping them manage their careers. However, I’ve stagnated in my own career for about 5 years. I’ve been presented with opportunities for growth, but have rejected a couple in the past 2 years due to 2 reasons: first, due to a mild fear of the unknown. Second, to maintain better balance in my life where I can manage personal life better with professional, and this aspect includes managing my spiritual and interior life. However, I sometimes lament other junior folks passing me by in terms of career growth.


What is the right thing here? Should I take up new challenges just for career growth, even if I may not enjoy the work, or even if it messes up my balance?

Or should I continue to stay where I’m at, living with some professional discontent?

Thank you.

Just occurred to me as I set up for Easter that we do not ever have a flower ceremony for Christ. Why is that?
We have 2 for Paramahansaji, Lahiri Mahashi and Sri Yukeswar. One each for Krishna and Babaji.

How does one understand and navigate the intersection between will and surrender during meditation? How does this intersection deepen meditation?

Are there stages to meditation, and if so, what are they?

If you have a limited amount of time to meditate and do the practices, what should be your priority? Sometimes I only have half an hour or 45 minutes. The intstructions say to do 10 minutes of each technique at minimum, do I cut back to 5 min so that I can do all the techniques? I am a kriyaban. Thank you