Virginia Lawyers Weekly VA Lawyers Weekly
A former Virginia resident has joined other disillusioned devotees of a nationwide chain of Yoga facilities who claim the organization robbed them of their free will and took control of their minds and their money.
Andrew Myers is suing various entities affiliated with the Dahn Yoga chain in a 77-page lawsuit in Alexandria federal court, asking for “not less than” $250,000 in compensation and $350,000 in punitive damages.
Myers’ claims parallel those of other former participants who say Dahn Yoga is essentially a cult. As reported by CNN, more than two dozen have filed suit in Arizona. Myers said he was able to escape ties to the group only through an intervention with a cult de-programmer and a two-week rehab program.
Myers is represented by the Northern Virginia office of Holland & Knight.
By Peter Vieth
Negative chakra energy all ’round.
Dear VLA Blog: please consider posting the below comment or seperate blog regarding the lawsuit above.
DAHN YOGA STATEMENT ON LAWSUIT BY ANDREW MYERS more at http://www.dahnyogavoice.com
Dahn Yoga and Health Centers, Inc. and its affiliates operate at over 1000 locations around the world and employ over 5000 individuals.
On February 16, 2010 Andrew Myers filed a complaint with the US District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Alexandria) against Dahn Yoga and other entities. Principally, Mr. Myers accuses Dahn Yoga and the other defendants of fraud and violation the federal RICO statute. The suit appears to be a copycat suit to an action pending against Dahn Yoga in Arizona.
Dahn Yoga categorically denies Mr. Myers’ allegations. He was treated fairly as a Dahn Yoga member and employee. His involvement with Dahn Yoga, which lasted only ten months, was based on fully informed and voluntary decisions. He is a healthy, well-educated 29 year old adult from a successful and close-knit family. In fact, he was living with his parents throughout the time of his involvement with Dahn Yoga. At all times, Mr. Myers personally had a network of significant support and resources, including his father, who is a partner in the prominent law firm bringing this lawsuit.
Dahn Yoga will continue to openly discuss matters relating to the charges in the Myers’ lawsuit. Dahn Yoga remains committed to helping people live healthier and happier lives.