Blending Wisdom with Wellness – The Metaphysical Center of New Jersey Takes Root in Ridgewood
As the world embraces wellness culture, the term “wellness” has grown to encompass a variety of holistic ways to nurture bodies, minds and spirits. In addition to organic foods and yoga classes, practices like energy healing, manifestation, astrology and crystal therapy have found a new home under the expansive wellness umbrella. This convergence marks a shift in how people view health and purpose, as modern self-care trends are reviving interest in ancient metaphysical traditions and their application in daily life.
With its new home base right here in Ridgewood, the Metaphysical Center of New Jersey (MCNJ) is a resource for those looking for effective tools for greater alignment and personal transformation. “Meta means above and beyond, while physical refers to the physical plane,” explains Metaphysical Center of New Jersey President Bill Prinzivalli. “Therefore,” he adds, “‘metaphysical’ just refers to all planes beyond the physical world.”
Bill emphasizes that there has always been a need for these teachings and there have always been seekers looking to explore what is beyond the material world. As we go through life, we frequently become distracted by the physical aspects of the world, such as wealth or status, only to find them to be shallow and unfulfilling, whether we consciously recognize it or not. With a stated purpose to educate, enlighten and encourage spiritual consciousness, MCNJ welcomes the community to engage with these metaphysical teachings as a way to find deeper meaning.
“We’re not a religion,” Bill explains. “Metaphysics encompasses the underlying truths of religions, as well as universal principles and ancient wisdom teachings passed on verbally from teacher to student. Hence, our motto ‘When the student is ready, the teacher appears.’ We offer an open door to explore spirituality in a non-religious way so people can choose what seems right for them.”
Two years ago, Bill was tapped to lead the non-profit organization — something that he did not expect but felt called to do. Previously he had an impressive career that included starting four successful businesses, but he also studied esoteric subjects to satisfy another part of himself. “It felt like I was living a bit of a dual life, and I was looking for a way to merge my interests,” he said. “Having built a reputation and credibility through my work, I feel like my mission now is to bring creative consciousness to the business world.”
Leading the resurgence of metaphysical teachings remains the MCNJ’s primary focus and, under Bill’s leadership, he and the Board of Directors are sharing their message with renewed enthusiasm to engage current and future generations. What began in 1956 when Donald H. Yott, a scholar of World Religions and Esoteric Philosophies and teacher at Pompton Lakes High School, was encouraged by his mentor, John Hay, to establish a metaphysical center in northern New Jersey, has continued to evolve while remaining embedded in Bergen and Passaic Counties. Now, as they enter their seventh decade, MCNJ is excited to have the Unitarian Society of Ridgewood as their new space for events.
“We’re embracing new technologies, offering one-of-a-kind experiences, and welcoming the community’s involvement as we continue to grow,” says Bill. In addition to their Saturday night lecture series and a 13-level course in metaphysics, MCNJ will host events such as a Healing & Psychic Fair on November 15, a Celebration of Life Holiday Party on December 13 and a 70th anniversary celebration in 2026.
To learn more about the Metaphysical Center of New Jersey, including events, membership and how to volunteer, visit metaphysicalcenter.org/ or email info@metaphysicalcenter.org.
Written by Andrea Leonarz. Andrea is a freelance public relations consultant and practicing astrologer based in Ridgewood. She is deeply rooted in the community and volunteers for several local organizations, including The Ridgewood Guild and RHS Jamboree.