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Reviewed by Romuald Dzemo for Readers' Favorite
The Secret Practice: Eighteen Years on the Dark Side of Yoga by Joelle Tamraz is an intriguing and harrowing memoir that sheds light on the darker aspects of spiritual pursuit and manipulation. Tamraz's candid narrative takes readers on a journey from vulnerability to empowerment, offering a gripping exposé of the dangers lurking behind the facade of enlightenment. Tamraz's story begins innocently enough, with a quest for spiritual enlightenment leading her to Rishikesh, the renowned home of yoga. However, her encounter with Swami Arun, an enigmatic and manipulative figure, sets off a chain of events defining the next eighteen years of her life. Through Tamraz's vivid storytelling, readers are immersed in the world of deception, control, and abuse orchestrated by Arun. On the surface, Tamraz’s spiritual guide is lovable, but his intentions are far from pure. For how long will she allow him to manipulate her?
The Secret Practice: Eighteen Years on the Dark Side of Yoga is told with unflinching honesty. From the opening chapters, readers learn about the author’s clandestine marriage, juxtaposed with her initial hopes and dreams of a lifetime of love and companionship. The secrecy in her relationship already hints at trouble. The contrast between her longing for familial approval and her mother's unexpected melancholy underscores the challenges of navigating cultural expectations and familial dynamics. The unease is palpable, and readers see someone longing for inner freedom. Her spiritual journey toward freedom thrust her into a form of spiritual slavery, and despite the warning signs, it takes a long time for her to break the cycle. While this is an enthralling memoir, it is also a cautionary tale showing readers how pseudo-spiritual leaders can prey on people and exploit their longing for enlightenment for personal gain. The book offers valuable lessons for readers.
