The MINCA 4M Methodology
The Call to Reconnect
MINCA was born from a desire to rethink how we learn and grow.
In an age of constant distraction and digital connection, the challenge is clear: how can we stay connected to ourselves, others, our environment, and the present moment?
We believe that to thrive in the age of AI, we must strengthen the human skills that technology cannot automate—emotional intelligence, collaboration, mental flexibility, and curiosity.
Our approach is experiential and integrated, honoring the symbiosis between personal growth and creative exploration.
The Origin of Our Name: MINCA
MINCA (NOUN) comes from the Quechua word “minka,” meaning shared work or collective effort. It is an ancient tradition based on reciprocity, cooperation, and mutual care.
As a living practice across indigenous Andean and Amazonian cultures (often referred to as “minga” in Amazonia), The name is our constant reminder that the most meaningful creations are co-created and benefit everyone.
Our 4M Methodology applies a mix of tools and exercises inspired by performance art, global mindfulness practices, and original practices we’ve developed.
All of our experiences encourage active participation over passive observation and are grounded in the belief that the true joy of life resides in the process, not the end result.
The MINCA 4m Methodology
Each “M" offers a doorway to unlock personal insights, overcome inertia, and generate new ideas.
Mindfulness
Practices that train attention and presence. The foundation for truly seeing yourself and the interconnectedness of all beings.
Movement
Connecting body and mind Awakens intuition stored in the body and invites joy.
Making
through creative and exploratory exercises across mediums, learning becomes tangible and visible.
Meaning
Reflection, journaling, and sharing help integrate learnings. Transforming experience into deep self-understanding and personal evolution.
The Roots of the 4M Methodology
The 4M Methodology was born from the founder's own journey of exploration. Julia Stewart's decade-long study became the source for MINCA's interdisciplinary approach.
Her foundational understanding of the mind-body connection began with her certification from the Sivananda School of Yoga, which holistically trains proper exercise, breathwork, and meditation. This awareness was amplified by training in Thai Massage from the Old Medicine Hospital in Chiang Mai.
her personal inquiry led her across practices: from the stillness found in the Buddhist mindfulness of Thích Nhất Hạnh and the meditation techniques of Paramahansa Yogananda, to the liberating, spontaneous flow of Contact Improvisation, ecstatic dance, osho’s active meditation, and West African Dance.
The entire 4m methodology is a synthesis of this deep, lived commitment to finding truth in both stillness and expression.
Julia Stewart, Founder
I founded MINCA (formerly Arte a la Carta), as a pop-up in December 2023. It has since evolved into the interdisciplinary creative campus it is today.
My work is an expressive path, connected to my spiritual realization and the expansion of the human imagination. This project has become a dynamic partner in that journey, serving as both a mirror to confront my limitations and a powerful doorway through which I can expand my consciousness.
I most closely identify as an Engagement Artist. my core mission is to help people feel truly alive and authentic. My work combines art, embodiment, and mindfulness to create transformative learning experiences. I serve as a catalyst —activating and facilitating shared experiences that become a co-creation of the participants.
the simplest questions drive my work: "What if we...?" and "Wouldn't it be fun if we...?" My curiosity lies in the longer-term impact of positive shared experiences—the spontaneous, ephemeral moments of joy, playfulness, and connection—and whether they can truly improve one's relationship to themselves and society.
My background includes: A Master’s of Business from ESADE IN BARCELONA, a B.A. in International Relations from LEWIS AND CLARK UNIVERSITY IN PORTLAND, OREGON, and training in Experience Design FROM Kaospilot and the Scaling Intimacy School OF EXPERIENCE DESIGN. my personal practice is a mix of buddhist mindfulness practices, the meditation techniques of Paramahansa Yogananda, swimming, weight lifting, stretching, and dance and whatever creative activity calls to me.