My Journey to New York: Reconnecting with the Soul Through Art and Spirit

By Carmela Ruggiero

Last October, I had the incredible honour of being invited to lead a workshop at the National Conference for Spirituality in Education at Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City.

When I first received the invitation, I was filled with excitement and a touch of nervousness. How would I connect with educators, researchers, and professionals who might not yet be familiar with spirituality or the idea of connecting deeply with one’s inner self? Still, I trusted that those who attended would be exactly the right people meant to receive something special.

My session, a workshop on “How to Reconnect with Yourself,” was designed to guide participants into a gentle, creative relationship with themselves, one that encourages emotional awareness and inner peace.

Through a blend of art, colouring, journaling, and guided reflection, participants explored their emotions in new ways. Each line, stroke and written word became a mirror of their inner world, revealing how creativity can open the door to profound self-understanding.

I was genuinely moved by how engaged everyone became. Many shared that they had never experienced such a calm yet powerful connection with themselves before. Watching them express emotions through art and journaling then hearing their reflections was deeply rewarding.

I realized once again that spirituality isn’t something abstract or distant; it’s within us all, waiting to be acknowledged. When we slow down, listen, and create, we remember that we are whole and deeply connected to something greater.

Before the session began, I asked my spirit team to gently support each participant to help them receive exactly what they needed most in their lives. My intention was for every person to walk away with renewed clarity, comfort, and faith in their journey.

The feedback I received after the session touched me deeply. Several participants shared that during the meditation and creative exercises, they felt an undeniable emotional shift, a moment of stillness where they truly heard their inner voice. It was humbling to witness.

For those who wish to explore this practice further, I share similar reflective exercises in my Art Journal “Love Yourself: How to Heal Through Journaling, 1st Edition – Feelings.”

👉 here

One of the memorable moments came when the official conference photographer began taking photos during the session. The clicking of his camera was… enthusiastic, to say the least! I smiled through it, but soon, one participant kindly asked him to stop explaining that the sound disrupted the meditation. It was a moment of unexpected solidarity and awareness in the room proof that the group had truly settled into deep stillness and presence.

Later, a videographer entered quietly, capturing parts of the session with great focus. Afterward, he waited for me outside the room. To my surprise, he asked if he could share the video with his wife, saying, “She needs you.” That simple, heartfelt exchange reminded me why I do this work to touch lives in ways that ripple far beyond the room.

The conference itself was inspiring beyond words. I had the chance to meet Dr. Lisa Miller, author of The Awakened Brain and The Spiritual Child, whose research bridges spirituality and neuroscience. I also listened to powerful talks by William and Elizabeth Reid, founders of the Jack Reid Foundation, and Jen Wallace, author of Never Enough, to list a few.

It was a beautiful gathering of minds and hearts educators, psychologists, and spiritual leaders all exploring how spirituality and science can work together to nurture future generations. The experience affirmed my belief that understanding our inner guidance allows us to be better teachers, parents, and human beings.

After such an intense and heart-opening day, I was deeply grateful for my two wonderful helpers, my best friend Lucy and my daughter whose love and support made the experience unforgettable.

Outside the classroom, New York in autumn was pure magic from the golden trees lining the streets to the elaborate Halloween decorations that made me smile at every corner. The giant pumpkins, the bright lights, the festive energy it all felt like a celebration of life itself.

My tip for you today is…

You don’t need a conference or a special setting to reconnect with your soul.

✨ Find a quiet moment.

✨ Play gentle music.

✨ Pick up a pen or a pencil and simply express what you feel through writing, doodling, colouring, or any creative outlet that calls you.

You’ll be amazed at how your emotions begin to speak, guide, and heal you when you give them space to exist.

If this message resonates with you, I invite you to:

🌿 Explore my Art Journal: Love Yourself - Heal Through Journaling

🌿 Discover more of my work at Ruggiero Studios: Visit Ruggiero Studios

🌿 Connect with me on social media or email me to know more: Carmela Ruggiero (Spiritual Artist, Psychic Medium)

I’m thrilled to share that next month, my newest creation will be released, The Twelve, an oracle card deck of Love and Light.

It’s a labour of love inspired by guidance, healing, and creative energy, a tool to help you deepen your connection with your inner self every day.

💫 Join the waiting list to pre-order your own deck → here

Until next time, stay warm, stay kind to yourself, and keep listening to your inner guidance.

With love and peaceful thoughts,

Carmela xx