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LABYRINTH WALK Walking a labyrinth is symbolic
of the pilgrimage we make through life seeking our place in the universe.
The path to the center may appear short and simple to the human eye
but the experience proves otherwise. With its twists and turns the
labyrinth takes us on a meandering path that symbolically represents
the many ex-periences of life that lead us to seek deeper knowledge
of Self, represented by ones arrival at the center. Thus walking a
labyrinth is a physical action with a spiritual purpose, a meditative
walk to the center of our Being.
WHAT IS A LABYRINTH? Labyrinths are tools used to help further individuals who are on the path to more balanced spiritual, emotional, psychological and physical well being. A labyrinth has a single, winding, unobstructed path from the outside to the center, unlike a maze which has many dead ends and wrong choices designed to trick the mind. The labyrinth is often seen as a metaphor for one's spiritual "life" journey; many twists and turns but no dead ends. In other words, we always have the opportunity to make another choice in life or "turn" in the labyrinth. When walking a labyrinth with others, a hypothetical "mirror" is often held up before you; it reflects back to you (through viewing other walkers) the beliefs, attitudes and behaviors that you express in everyday life. We are always meeting people along our "path" through life, and therefore, how we behave and think in these situations is often re-created while walking a labyrinth with others. It is therefore an opportunity to learn about yourself, and then choose to make those personal changes that can lead to having improved relationships, higher creativity and overall happiness. The labyrinth is a powerful tool to help your mind and body relax. Recent research by Dr. Wayne London indicates that labyrinths have a positive effect on brainwave activity and neurological response. The chance to release both mental and physical tension by walking a labyrinth is there for each individual. In addition, those people who find it difficult to sit still and meditate or pray will find the perfect outlet in the walking meditation that is the labyrinth experience. It is simultaneously kinesthetic and introspective, a complete mind-body integrative activity. People have used labyrinths as oracles; places to receive answers to life's troubling questions and an oasis for the spirit. In other words, a place to receive proper "nourishment" for the spirit within by connecting with a divine nature; a situation not readily available in our ususal day to day existence. In sum, a labyrinth is a playground for allowing our intuitions to have free reign. So follow your head and your heart while inside the "walls" of the labyrinth; what many consider to be "Sacred Space." |
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