Deep Dive
Why did Miranda initially trust the yoga festival in Romania?
The event was recommended by her yoga teacher at Tara Yoga Centre in London, where she had been attending for months and had a positive experience.
What were some of the red flags Miranda encountered at the yoga festival in Romania?
She had to surrender her phone, swear on a Bible, and was exposed to explicit sexual content, including pornographic videos and a hyper-sexualised Miss Shakti competition.
What is the Miss Shakti competition, and how did it make Miranda feel?
It was a hyper-sexualised pageant where women competed based on their embodiment of the divine feminine. Miranda initially watched it but later felt pressured to participate, despite finding it uncomfortable.
What is the 'technique' mentioned in the episode, and why did Miranda participate?
The technique involved a highly choreographed group sex ritual where participants drank each other's urine, referred to as 'elixir,' to absorb spiritual and physical qualities. Miranda participated to avoid being ostracised and to push her boundaries for spiritual growth.
Who is Gregorian Bivolaru, and why is he significant in the yoga movement?
Gregorian Bivolaru is the guru behind the MISA yoga organisation, which has affiliates in 29 countries. He is revered as a spiritual guide and has a large following, including thousands who attend his festivals.
What was the Ecstatic Joy Temple, and how did it relate to Tara Yoga Centre?
The Ecstatic Joy Temple was a topless massage parlour near Tara Yoga Centre, where some teachers worked. It operated without a licence and was seen as a place for spiritual growth, though it involved sexually charged massages.
Why did Miranda continue to participate in the yoga movement despite its controversial practices?
Miranda felt a sense of belonging and spiritual growth within the community. She believed in pushing boundaries and doing things others wouldn't, which made her feel special and part of an exclusive group.
What was the final ceremony at the women's villa in Romania, and how did Miranda feel about it?
The final ceremony was an organised lovemaking ritual that Miranda reluctantly participated in to avoid being ostracised. She felt pressured but reminded herself it was part of her spiritual journey.
How did the yoga movement attract followers like Miranda and Bec?
The movement promised spiritual growth, community, and healing for those at a crossroads in life. It used a mix of Indian spiritual teachings, astrology, and Christianity to create a sense of belonging and purpose.
What was the role of nudity and sexualisation in the yoga movement?
Nudity and sexualisation were central to the movement's practices, including tantric yoga and the Miss Shakti competition. Followers were encouraged to use sexual energy for spiritual awakening, often pushing personal boundaries.
- Yoga festival in Romania's Kostinest, a two-week stay
- Surrendering phones and swearing on the Bible upon arrival
- Event recommended by Tara Yoga Centre in London
- Unusual activities involving sexual elements and activities