Labyrinths

On a recent walk in the local Mattaei Botanical Gardens, we followed a path to the labyrinth. I love walking labyrinths, and this day was no exception, even though the wind had started to kick up on this winter day.

Labyrinth at Mattaei Botanical Gardens, Ann Arbor, MI

Labyrinths offer a form of walking meditation, which is the only way I've been able to meditate. I admit I haven't really tried any other way - but since I enjoy being outside so much, and walking - a labyrinth suits me just fine.

Here are the instructions given the walker:
"A labyrinth provides an opportunity for walking meditation. Quietly traverse the winding path to the center while allowing the experience to quiet your thoughts and relieve stress. Rather than focusing on reaching the center, be mindful of each step you take. Feel free to spend some time at the center reflecting on your experience."

Labyrinth in Sedona, AZ

Labyrinths are different sizes, but size does not have to have much of an impact on their effectiveness. I walked the labyrinth above this past summer. I always look down at my feet when walking - the often tight circle of a labyrinth makes this almost necessary, and that helps put me in a meditative state. I find them to be very powerful.

Labyrinths have apparently been around since ancient times, and have become quite popular in recent times. They offer a single path to the center (they are not mazes), so the reasoning mind can be turned off.

Many cite the following quote attributed to Caroline Adams in their web pages about labyrinths. It's a wonderful statement about life:

"Your life is a sacred journey. And it is about change, growth, discovery, movement, transformation, continuously expanding your vision of what is possible, stretching your soul, learning to see clearly and deeply, listening to your intuition, taking courageous challenges at every step along the way. You are on the path… exactly where you are meant to be right now… And from here, you can only go forward, shaping your life story into a magnificent tale of triumph, of healing, of courage, of beauty, of wisdom, of power, of dignity, and of love."

If you are interested in finding a labyrinth in your area, anywhere around the world, here's a site to help you: The Labyrinth Locator.

It has links to the site's creators: The Labyrinth Society, and Veriditas. Funds to build the site were provided by the Faith, Hope, and Love Foundation, which "strives to bring hope to children and youth in need." It's quite remarkable how many people are actively trying to do good in the world!