With a labyrinth there is only one choice to be made. The choice is to enter or not. A more passive, receptive mindset is needed. The choice is whether or not to walk a spiritual path.

Move towards grace

Slow an anxious mind

What is a Labyrinth?

The Labyrinth is a powerful symbol that has intrigued people for centuries. Unlike a maze, which is designed to confuse and disorient, the Labyrinth is meant to guide and focus. It is an ancient tool for prayer and meditation, used by many cultures all over the world as a path to transformation. The energy that draws us in is the feeling of being on a journey towards something greater than ourselves. By walking the Labyrinth, we can connect with our inner selves and find peace and clarity. No wonder it continues to fascinate and inspire so many people today.

At its most basic, a Labyrinth is a path that is walked on in a tradition that has been passed down through the ages.  It is a symbol that creates sacred space.

There is only one path in a Labyrinth that leads from the outer edge and frequently changes direction, all the while leading to the centre and then returns back out again.  It is a combination of a spiral and a circle.

The Labyrinth is non-denominational.  Many churches have Labyrinths either inside them or outside in their grounds.

Labyrinth walking is a form of walking meditation that allows us to quiet the mind, reduce stress, slow down and take time out from a busy life. 

Why Walk a Labyrinth?

·       For whatever reason you like or simply no reason at all!

·       We don’t need a reason to follow the twists and turns of the Labyrinth.  Sometimes just deciding to walk with no expectations of any outcome at all is a wonderful approach.

·       Cross the threshold and enter the sacred space of this ancient symbol, bringing your awareness down from your mind into your body, to engage your attention at a level that is beyond thought.

·       And simply walk.  Walk peacefully, leisurely, feeling the touch of your feet on the Earth;  no need to hurry, walking in the spirit of mindfulness.  Allow the path to hold you, deeply savouring each step.

·       Perhaps when you have finished walking, you will have gained new insights or the answer to a question that has been evading you.  Perhaps you will have enjoyed a pleasant walk.

·       Simply walk and trust that what ever happens will be the perfect thing for you.

·       Through the ages, Labyrinth walking has been an act of pilgrimage, a quest, a ceremonial ritual or a way of attaining spiritual connection.

·       Dr Lauren Artress says “A Labyrinth is a walking meditation where psyche meets Spirit” (Veriditas).

·       People walk Labyrinths for many varied reasons including looking for the answer to a question, to reflect on a problem or issue, in times of grief and loss or sadness, to feel a sense of comfort, to gain insight or clarity.

History of Labyrinths

Labyrinths have been around for centuries, and their origins can be traced back to as early as 4,000 – 5,000 years ago. These intricate structures have been found on every continent in the world, and each culture has their own unique interpretation of what they represent.

One of the most well-known labyrinths is said to have been at Knossos Palace on the Greek island of Crete. However, no physical evidence of this labyrinth has been found, other than the symbol on the back of Cretan coins. Despite this, the legend of the labyrinth has persisted throughout the centuries.

In Scandinavia, labyrinths were often built near the shore where fishermen would walk them. The belief was that any bad spirits would be trapped in the centre of the labyrinth, and then they would run out of the labyrinth, believing that the labyrinth would capture any violent winds and keep their ships safe.

Interestingly, midwives of old would have a piece of slate that had the labyrinth symbol etched upon it. This symbol would be traced by finger by either the midwife or the labouring mother, helping to lessen the pain of childbirth.

Labyrinths have stood the test of time and continue to be a symbol of mystery and wonder. Whether used for spiritual purposes or simply for enjoyment, labyrinths remain an integral part of human history and culture.

A Labyrinth to Walk with your Fingers

·       This design is a Classical 7 Circuit Labyrinth (previously known as the Cretan Labyrinth). This is probably the most common Labyrinth design.

·       Archaeological evidence of this Labyrinth symbol has been found on rock carvings, paintings, tiles and coins across southern Europe and North Africa from approximately 2000BCE.

·       Its 7 circuits (paths) have been associated with the 7 chakras, the 7 major planets, 7 notes in a musical scale.

·      To walk a Labyrinth with your finger, breathe in taking a full breath and slowly breathe out, noticing how you are feeling. Using your non-dominant hand, start at the entrance and begin tracing the path with your finger. By using your non-dominant hand, you are creating balance between the right and left hemispheres of your brain.

·       Continue tracing the path until you arrive at the Centre. Just the same as when you are walking a Labyrinth with your feet, you can remain here for as long as you want or as long as you need.

·       When you feel that you are ready to return, begin to make your way from the Centre back to the entrance.

·       After your finger walk, you may like to sit for a moment to reflect or to write down any thoughts or insights in your journal.