Join journalist Hayley Phelan, known for her probing work on wellness culture, and Carol Merchasin, a dedicated lawyer for survivors of spiritual abuse, as they unpack the darker truths behind Kundalini Yoga. From the questionable pasts of its founders to the cult-like practices embedded in its community, they explore how devotion can spiral into manipulative dogma. The conversation sheds light on financial exploitation, emotional manipulation, and the complex dynamics that blur the lines between spirituality and control.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Initial Exposure
Hayley Phelan's cousin, interested in Kundalini, invited her to a Rama studio opening.
Her cousin couldn't define Kundalini, highlighting the mystique surrounding it.
insights INSIGHT
Vague Definition
Kundalini is described as an "ancient technology" for enlightenment, creating intrigue and questions.
This vague definition piqued Phelan's interest, leading her to attend a class and observe the scene.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Yogi Bhajan's Background
Yogi Bhajan, a customs agent, not a guru, founded 3HO and Kundalini Yoga.
He presented Kundalini as ancient technology, capitalizing on the spiritual seeking of the time.
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Pamela Dyson's memoir, "Premka: White Bird in a Golden Cage," offers a harrowing account of her experiences as a secretary to Yogi Bhajan, the founder of Kundalini Yoga. The book details the alleged sexual abuse, manipulation, and coercion she endured during her time with him. Dyson's narrative sheds light on the power dynamics within the organization and the ways in which Yogi Bhajan exploited his position of authority. The memoir also explores the psychological impact of the abuse and the challenges of escaping a controlling relationship. "Premka" has been instrumental in bringing attention to the allegations of abuse within Kundalini Yoga and has empowered other survivors to come forward with their stories.
The Age of Magical Overthinking
Notes on Modern Irrationality
Amanda Montell
Wordslut
A Feminist Guide to Taking Back the English Language
Amanda Montell
In 'Wordslut,' Amanda Montell deconstructs language to reveal how it has been used for centuries to keep women and other marginalized genders from power. She examines various aspects of language, including insults, cursing, gossip, catcalling, grammar, and pronunciation patterns, and how these elements have contributed to stereotypes and biases. Montell's approach is humorous and engaging, making linguistics accessible and entertaining while highlighting the need for social change. The book moves between history, science, and popular culture to address questions about gender-neutral terms, vocal fry, and filler words, ultimately shedding light on the biases that affect women in culture and consciousness.
Cultish
The Language of Fanaticism
Amanda Montell
In 'Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism,' Amanda Montell argues that the key to manufacturing intense ideology, community, and us/them attitudes in cults and cult-like groups lies in the use of language. The book delves into the verbal elements that make these communities 'cultish,' including the redefinition of words, euphemisms, and other linguistic tricks. Montell analyzes various groups such as Jonestown, Scientology, NXIVM, and even modern entities like SoulCycle and social media influencers, highlighting how these groups use language to create a sense of belonging and loyalty. The book is praised for its engaging narrative, original research, and incisive analysis of the power of language in shaping human behavior.
There’s a chance you’ve brushed paths with this week’s cult in a West Coast farmers market or while scrolling through #yogainspiration, or as of late, your HBOMax recommended page. Kundalini yoga promises spiritual awakening, cosmic energy, and a path to your highest self. But behind the flowing white turbans and chanting in sat nam, there’s a darker story—one of control, secrecy, and not one but TWO gurus with highly questionable pasts. This week, we’re unraveling the culty underbelly of Kundalini, its infamous founder Yogi Bhajan, and his 20-teens girlbossified equivalent, Katie Griggs. From Instagram livestreams at millennial haven RaMa Studios to the militarized "3HO" organization (Healthy, Happy, Holy—or is it?), we’re asking: When does devotion cross the line into dogma? Strap in for a deep dive with Hayley Phelan (@hayleyphelan), journalist behind the article that powered HBO Max's Breath of Fire docuseries, and spiritual/sexual abuse lawyer Carol Merchasin, as Amanda and Reese discover why so many former followers say this spiritual practice left them anything but zen.
Sounds Like A Cult 
