We all know we should think positive thoughts, but that doesn't stop us from thinking what we actually think:

"People are awful." "I'm not enough." "Nothing I do matters."

Negative thoughts are part of being human.

The problem isn't that they appear. The problem is that we often don't know what to do with them.

Maybe you've tried pushing them away—only to have them return even stronger.

Maybe you tried repeating  affirmations that never really feel true or distracting yourself to escape from them . . . for a little while.

Or maybe you've judged yourself for having negative thoughts at all, creating another layer of suffering.

None of those approaches work.

Yoga offers something different.

The Yoga Sutras describe a practical method called pratipakṣa-bhāvanam—cultivating a counteracting thought.

vitarka-bādhane pratipakṣa-bhāvanam
"When disturbed by negative thoughts, cultivate their opposite." (Yoga Sutra II.33)

This isn't about pretending everything is fine. Yoga psychology doesn't ask us to replace painful thoughts with unrealistic optimism.

Instead, it teaches us how to recognize the mistaken assumptions hidden inside many negative thoughts—and replace them with thoughts that are both truthful and constructive.

In other words, the goal isn't fake positivity. It's realistic wisdom.

In this workshop you'll learn how to:

• understand what negative thoughts really are and where they come from
• step back from negative thoughts rather than identify with them
• reframe the assumptions behind negative thoughts
• distinguish between thoughts that are true and thoughts that only feel true
• apply the yogic practice of pratipakṣa-bhāvanam in everyday life
• guide yoga students through this process during practice
• cultivate healthier mental patterns that support lasting well-being

You'll leave with practical tools you can use immediately—both in your own life and, if you're a teacher, in your classes.

This workshop combines structured teaching, open discussion, critical reflection, and time for questions.

All sessions will be recorded, and replay links will be emailed to all registered participants after each class.

This live workshop will be recorded, and everyone who registers will receive the replay.

Participants may receive 1.5 hours of CE credit with Yoga Alliance.

Tuition: By Donation

I'm offering this workshop by donation because the ability to work skillfully with negative thoughts—and help others do the same—feels especially important right now.