Spring 2016

“Step Into Nature"
​Talk and Book Signing with Patrice Vecchione 
Friday, April 22nd 7:30 to 8:30 pm

​​Luminata hosts local author and columnist Patrice Vecchione as she introduces her latest book "Step into Nature".

"Step into Nature" is a guide to make nature personal again, to stimulate awareness and increase our understanding of the environment while inspiring readers to develop their imaginations and strengthen their spirits.

In a stroke of synchronicity, Patrice will be here on Earth Day; she will lead us in a creative writing exercise to sharpen our inner senses and enhance our appreciation for the beauty of nature, the environment, and the wonders of our planet.

Patrice Vecchione is a writer, author, poet, columnist, blogger and teacher. She has written numerous articles for the Monterey Weekly and Monterey Herald, and leads writing retreats around the country. Don't miss this opportunity to meet her and hear her speak on her newest book, as well as to expand your soul senses to the beauties of our natural world. 

Event Cost: FREE

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“Psyche, Eros, Me"
​Talk and Book Signing with Deanna McKinstry-Edwards, PhD 
Friday, May 27th 7:30 to 8:30 pm

​​Luminata is pleased to feature local author, actress, and teacher Deanna McKinstry-Edwards as she speaks about her mythic memoir "Psyche, Eros, and Me".

"Psyche, Eros and Me" is a fascinating biographical journey using the myth of Psyche and Eros as a lens into her remarkable life story. Her inspired narrative will help readers discover and sustain contact with their own inner voice of guidance as their life journey unfolds. She will begin her presentation with poetry, music, and song, and will talk about mythology as a tool of awakening and illumination.

Deanna is a professional actress, singer, writer, and Pushcart Prize nominated poet. She holds a doctoral degree in Mythology and Psychology and teaches courses in Ecopsychology.

Event Cost: FREE

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“Bringing Harmony into our Lives"
​Shamanic Journey and Ritual with Jon Rasmussen
Friday, June 17th, 7:30 pm
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​​Luminata is delighted to have  local shaman Jon Rasmussen back with us to lead a shamanic ritual and guided journey. Tonight Jon will talk on the theme of “bringing harmony and unity out of dissonance.” We live in a world of duality that veils an underlying unity. Jon will explore how to connect with our inner source -- the origin of universal unity -- and illumine our lives with light and harmonious influences. Jon will lead a ritual in the tradition of a shamanic journey to draw down blessings for ourselves and for the world. 

Jon Rasmussen is a well-known local teacher and author of "Dreaming Your World into Being". His shamanic studies include apprenticeship with world famous shaman Alberto Villoldo, and tutelage in the Andes with the mysterious Q’ero Indians of Peru. Jon is a representative of the authentic shamanic tradition of the Americas.

Love offerings accepted
Event Cost: FREE

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“Our Compassionate Kosmos"
​Talk and Book Signing with Ricardo Stocker
Friday, June 10th 7:30 to 8:30 pm
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​​Luminata will feature author, teacher, and poet Ricardo Stocker as he speaks about his inspirational guidebook "Our Compassionate Kosmos", a collection of insights, contemplations and short essays gleaned from years of meditation and spiritual realization. In line and in tune with the paradigm change underway, these meditations are grounded in discoveries regarding the nature of cosmic reality, and the unfoldment of human potentials. This book articulates key ideas in harmony with the spirit of the times. Ricardo will talk about the ideas in his book and will lead us in a short meditation to attune with the compassionate heart of the cosmos and accelerate the healing of our planet.

Ricardo Stocker is a philosopher, poet, musician and transpersonal psychologist. He grew up in Argentina, moved to Europe as a young man, and now lives in California. For the last sixteen years he has been a professor of psychology at Mendocino College. He is also a counselor, musician, and grandfather. His message is uplifting, optimistic and inspiring.

" "Our Compassionate Kosmos" is a powerful reflection on the subtle dimensions of the world, our divine nature and what it means to be awake today. Ricardo's breadth of understanding encompasses deep philosophical insight, combined with knowledge that spans wisdom traditions east and west.”  -- Miranda MacPherson, author of "Boundless Love"

Event Cost: FREE

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