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May 31, 2024When I was working on my graduate certificate in holistic health there were so many wonderful experiences and one of these impacted me profoundly, so much so, that I will take every opportunity to experience it again. This practice is quietly walking a labyrinth. The labyrinth is a form of flat maze with an obvious pathway through it. This ancient meditative method has been used for healing, for problem solving, the revitalization of spirituality and for quiet, reflective moments for millennia.
Many religious organizations have created labyrinths for their congregations, however no particular religion claims to be the originator. They have been crafted in a variety of materials and patterns but all have a single entrance and exit and to get out of the labyrinth without walking across it, you follow the pathway to the center and begin your exit at the center.
The labyrinth requires nothing but mindful walking. If you need assistance with ambulation, whatever assistive equipment or support you need usually works in the labyrinth. Inquire ahead regarding accessibility of the labyrinth you have chosen.
The act of walking the labyrinth and engaging in this mobile meditation is profound. Stepping onto and through the pathway moves brain activity to the right hemisphere of the brain (the intuitive, creative side) and silences the left brain (that analytical problem-solving area of the brain). This act alone is meditative, calming and opens you up for creative solutions, ideas and visioning.
Here’s Your Labyrinth How To: As you enter the labyrinth, you pause before your first step and in your mind outline your prayer, request, subject of meditation, or whatever it may be you need help with. Then walk slowly, mindfully along the pathway. Some people use the pathway to turn inward and silently repeat their need or say a prayer or mantra. When you arrive in the center, the space is usually a little larger and there is room for more than one person to stand or sit and wait for the answer to their request if it has not yet been received. The experience is simple, relaxing and refreshes the spirit. I have used the labyrinth for poetry ideas, for relaxation and connection, in times of grief and healing.
I was in Dublin, Ireland a few years ago outside Christ Church, which has a large, lovely flat stone, labyrinth. I began walking as several French speaking people approached. I had not spoken French in years, and stumbling through the language, I answered their questions, and ultimately showed them how the labyrinth worked. I finished my walk and as I left the area, I saw their entire group walking the labyrinth in obvious enjoyment. What a joyful day!
Christ Church Labyrinth, Dublin, Ireland:
Labyrinths are located everywhere in the world in various designs and materials. In Michigan, USA, you can find one made of lavender plants which outline the form. In France, inside Chartres Cathedral, you will find a labyrinth on the floor of the sanctuary. If you visit there, and are lucky enough to hear the choir perform, you will be forever moved.
Here is the replica of labyrinth inside the Chartres Cathedral, this one is in Vienna:
Also check out the Veriditas Society, a group dedicated to teaching and experiencing labyrinths:
World Labyrinth Day is May 4. Try to find one in your location or close enough to drive and experience this wonderful integrated approach to well-being. Let me know about your experience on the website contact page https://asandyplace.com/contact/ or the email noted below.
As always, here’s to your well-being!
Sandra L. Place
