In this episode of The Kriya Yoga Podcast, Ryan Kurczak discusses the concept of spiritual strength and power, focusing on how to cultivate these attributes through yoga and meditation practices. The core of the talk revolves around the teachings from the Yoga Sutras, particularly Sutra 23 in Chapter 3, which highlights the importance of friendship and its role in developing spiritual strength. The speaker explains that by contemplating and engaging in true friendship, one can cultivate immense spiritual power akin to the strength of an elephant. This concept extends beyond mere social friendliness to include deep, internal self-compassion and acceptance. The discussion delves into the idea that many people turn to meditation and spirituality due to underlying emotional or psychological distress. It is emphasized that instead of using meditation as a means to suppress these feelings, individuals should foster a compassionate relationship with themselves, recognizing and attending to their inner wounds. This approach not only enhances meditation practice but also leads to genuine spiritual growth and strength. Mr. Kurczak also shares personal anecdotes, including the impact of significant losses in his life, which forced him to internalize support and engage in profound self-analysis. He cites the book "No Bad Parts" by Richard Schwartz, which aligns with the talk’s theme of embracing all aspects of oneself with love and compassion. In conclusion, Ryan encourages listeners to practice self-analysis, cultivate internal friendship, and approach meditation not as an escape but as a means to become more present, alive, and spiritually robust. -- Your host, Ryan Kurczak, is a Kriya Yoga meditation teacher and author. He was authorized to teach Kriya Yoga in 2005, by Roy Eugene Davis, a direct student of Paramahansa Yogananda. If you would like to participate in online live sessions consider becoming a member of The Kriya Yoga Online Patreon Community or applying to the Kriya Yoga Apprenticeship Program. For continued inspiration and instruction, please read my new book, An Essential Guide to Kriya Yoga Practice. Now available in hardcover and softback on Amazon.  Also, now available Understanding the Holy Science: A Theoretical and Experiential Study Guide to Sri Yukteswar's Kriya Yoga Practice. For more information about Kriya Yoga events, courses and online classes please visit: A community of Kriya Yoga practitioners engaged in supporting this work. https://www.patreon.com/KriyaYoga Blog posts, books and information on the Kriya Yoga Apprenticeship Course. https://kriyayogaonline.com/ A Year Long Kriya Yoga Introduction Course Kriya Yoga Online Ashram (teachable.com) Hundreds of hours of videos related to Kriya Yoga and spiritual growth. https://www.youtube.com/user/KriyaYogaOnline