There’s a phenomenon in spirituality circles where negativity is strongly discouraged by practitioners. I believe it is known as toxic positivity.

Speaking about negative things or criticising yourself and others was frowned upon. “It was a good-vibes-only kind of mentality,” Miranda explains. “Some of that comes from yogic philosophy, but it’s been exaggerated. You see it everywhere on social media – reels, memes and soundbites about positivity bordering on toxic. Tara Yoga took it to the extreme.” In hindsight, she says, “These thought patterns cause you to overlook your own boundaries, especially when it comes to trusting ourselves.” Yet the idea of letting go of your existing beliefs to become happier and more enlightened was appealing: the idea that you can manifest your way to a better life.

This article in The Guardian outlines the issues with one form of tantric yoga, but the issue of toxic positivity and spiritual bypassing is quite widespread in spirituality circles, and it can be a pathway to other people controlling you, or at least fleecing you of a lot of money. Obviously not all yoga is like this, but as yoga is an unregulated activity, anyone can set up as a yoga teacher, so let the buyer beware. Look for the warning signs of abusive groups.

The disturbing case of a Tantric yoga guru and his followers

I made a video some time ago about the phenomenon of spiritual bypassing which is another aspect of toxic positivity.