CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA, Calif., — Always placing a focus on alternative ways of thinking, learning and being, The Pilgrim's Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden in Carmel has announced a weekly Interactive Wellness Series for small groups.

A cornerstone of the community since 1969, and now the last bookstore in an idyllic village founded as a haven for artists, writers, poets and free-thinkers, Pilgrim's Way embraces the sacred rather than the religious or secular.

The locally owned business says the Wellness Series is a way to sample some local professionals in the healing arts. Participants will meet in small groups in a comfortable and private setting, with the hope to create “magical connections.”

Sessions will be held on Thursdays from 6-7 p.m., and those interested can attend as many of the five as they desire. All tickets are $25 per person. Space will be limited to 6-10 people per event. RSVP at cynthiapilgrimsway@gmail.com.

Feb. 9 — Shamanism: Drumming Journey with Dr. Monica Montoya. This experiential event will begin with an orientation on the powerful healing influence of Shamanism on physical, mental and soul levels; impacting our quality of life. Dr. Montoya will then lead participants through a drumming journey, followed by a discussion at group level of the experience. Dr. Montoya is a naturopathic doctor with more than 15 years of practice in Monterey. She also has a background as a clinical microbiologist, research scientist in genetics, and has more than 10 years of experience in shamanic medicine.