A Labyrinth is an ancient geometric
form used as a spiritual tool; a primordial symbol representing inspiration, meditation and prayer. The origins are not
known but they have been found in Egyptian tombs, Cretan coins, Celtic stones, Christian churches and in Pima and Hopi Indian
traditions. Until recently they were rare in the United States. Since the turn of the millennium, this country
has witnessed a Labyrinth renaissance. There has been a resurgence in popularity and they have become increasingly common
to find in schools, parks, hospitals, spas, churches and retreat centers and also private residences. Labyrinths are
thought to enhance the right brain activity and uses include problem solving, conflict resolution, walking meditation, modern
day pligrimage, and stress management. They differ from a maze in that it has only one path into the center and the same path
back out again. There are no choices to make after the decision to enter. To find a Labyrinth in your area visit
the World Wide Labyrinth Locator at www.labyrinthlocator.com, an online database which list 3,300 Labyrinths around the world.
The Kripalu Yoga and Wellness Center Labyrinth
is a "Seven Path Classical Labyrinth." and is found in many of the earth's indigenous cultures. Walking
the Labyrinth is a rediscovery of a long-forgotten mystical tradition. As the path winds back and forth towards the
center, it may become a mirror for where you are in your life. You may experience a healing and balancing effect as
your mind begins to clear and you become simply aware of your breath. Sometimes deep personal insights or new ways of
perceiving life's challenges will arise.
Walking
the Labyrinth
There
is no right way to walk a Labyrinth. Just simply enter and follow the path. Your walk can encompass
a variety of attitudes. You may find that it is joyful or somber, or it may be prayerful or thoughtful.
You may use it as a walking meditation.
When
walking in a Labyrinth choose your attitude. Try walking it with a different attitude each time to experiment.
You can make it playful, prayerful or serious. Perhaps you might enjoy playing music or singing.
Try praying out loud. You can walk alone or with a crowd. Listen to the sounds
of nature and notice how the sky looks but most importantly, pay attention to your experience.
Some general guidelines for walking a Labyrinth are:
1. Focus: Pause
and wait at the entrance. Become quiet and centered. Give acknowledgment through
a bow, nod, or other gesture and then enter.
2. Experience: Walk purposefully.
Observe the process. When you reach the center stay there and focus several moments.
Leave when it seems appropriate. Be attentive on the way out.
3. Exit: Turn and
face the entrance. Give an acknowledgement of ending, such as “Amen.”
4. Reflect: After
walking the labyrinth reflect back on your experience. Use journaling or drawing to capture your experience.
5. Come back and walk often.
