Today we have the pleasure of talking to Nina Verkoeyen, our cover girl, winner of the “Spiritual teacher of the year” award and founder of Meta Spirituality, a modern spiritual movement that is making waves worldwide.

Q: Congratulations on your award, Nina. Can you start by telling us what Meta Spirituality is and how it differs from other spiritual movements?

Nina: Thank you! Meta Spirituality can be likened to a universal "religion"—a unifying ideology, that is predicated on the belief that at the core of every religious practice and spiritual belief system, there is an overarching truth about who we are - the truth and unity we as a collective were all craving for a long time. A shared perspective Meta Spirituality provides bridges the gaps between different faiths and belief systems that have historically divided us. It's about going beyond the confines of any single religion or spiritual teaching; it’s the 'meta' — the overarching essence that transcends these boundaries and dissolves the barriers of belief, fostering a sense of unity rather than division. True spirituality, in its most authentic form, is about connection, not separation. The aim of Meta Spirituality, as well as my own life's work, is to enlighten humanity with the knowledge that unites us at our core, revealing our true nature and the interconnectedness that defines us all.

Q: How did Meta Spirituality begin, and what inspired you to start this movement?

Nina: As a former psychologist and a dedicated spiritual seeker since I was 11, I felt a yearning for something more than the confines of psychological concepts, traditional religions or the surface-level offerings of mainstream spirituality. My heart was on a quest for a deeper truth. Then, in 2016, it was as if a curtain lifted, revealing the underlying Truth common to all spiritual and religious paths. This revelation transformed my view of life. And it evolved from an internal enlightenment into a practical guide for other people on shaping reality and making inner changes manifest in the physical world.


Q: How do you feel about the award, and what does it mean for you?

Nina: It's a genuine honor to be recognized in this way. This award from Glamour magazine feels like a warm acknowledgment that the message of Meta Spirituality is resonating with people. It’s not just a personal win—it’s a nod to our collective efforts to spread a universal spiritual understanding. It encourages me and signifies that our community's dedication to broadening the reach of Meta Spirituality is indeed making waves. It’s incredibly motivating, and it assures me that we’re on the right track to making Meta Spirituality as well-known and embraced in homes as any other essential aspect of life.


Q: Your tradition has attracted followers from all walks of life, including those in high fashion. Has this changed the way you view material beauty and self-presentation?

Nina: It’s been fascinating. You see, material beauty is like a conversation starter—it’s what often catches the eye and draws you in. What Meta Spirituality teaches is to delve deeper into that conversation, beyond the surface. Engaging with fashion doesn't have to be superficial; it can be done with consciousness and intention. We believe in an 'inner designer', that crafts our character and creates the reality we live in.
So, this has not changed how we view material beauty but has reinforced the idea that while aesthetics can be a form of self-expression, the true substance is found within. It’s about aligning the outer with the inner, letting your true self define your style. When we are in tune with ourselves, our fashion choices can become more intentional, reflecting our inner state and personal growth. Meta Spirituality supports the idea that personal style is a dynamic form of self-expression and personal narrative. It's a way to integrate all aspects of our being into a coherent whole, which is what Meta Spirituality aims for.

 

 

Q: In light of your award, have you considered a side career in modeling for spiritual robes and meditation cushions?

Nina: [Laughs] Well, I haven't received any offers yet, but I like to think of myself as an advocate for 'inner fashion.' You know, the kind that radiates from a well-tended soul. Though, if Vogue calls for a 'Zen and the Art of Robe-Wearing' feature, I might just consider it!


Q: With that said, if Meta Spirituality had a signature ‘look,’ what would it be?

Nina: Oh, that’s easy—a smile of genuine understanding of who you truly are, and eyes that sparkle with universal love. That's the 'look' that never goes out of style!