The Labyrinth: A Walking Meditation

“There really is a sense of connecting with the Divine”
                                                     -Stephen Adams

At first glance the labyrinth looks like a mysterious maze where people advance forward at a very slow and deliberate pace.  The meditative exercise can take ten to thirty minutes to complete.  Sometimes quiet music sets the mood.  Often candles line the path to create a sacred environment. 

The labyrinth is made up of concentric circles that lead to the center and then back to the outer edge.  The outline of the maze is often imprinted on a large square canvas mat, or painted on floors and even outlined by stones in gardens.  The labyrinth may seem confusing with its twists and turns, but for many, it leads to peace and relaxation.

Charlotte Nichols walks the labyrinth as a form of contemplation. “Many people find it difficult to meditate when they’re just kind of sitting still,” she says.  “Their minds go all over creation.  And sometimes if you’re body is moving, it helps to center and quiet your mind.”

The oldest known labyrinth was built 4000 years ago in Egypt.  Labyrinths are found in almost every culture and religion, but fell out of favor around the time of the Reformation in the 1600's.  Recently the labyrinth has come back in vogue and many are using it as a spiritual tool. 

Donna Okin walks the labyrinth and says it relaxes her.  “After I was into it for a little while I felt very at ease.  When you’re physically walking, you silence your thought process.  Your mind can focus on the things that need to be attended to, in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.”

Walking the labyrinth for the first time can be a little awkward.  There's no right or wrong way, just one foot in front of the other.  Stephan Adams approaches the experience with an open mind and heart.  “Your intent upon entering it is to be able to let go of the things that are holding you back or causing pressure or stress in your life” he says. 

Eventually the path leads to the center.  It’s a sacred space for many who stop there to meditate.  “Some people stand, some sit, some kneel,” notes Charlotte Nichols.  “Some stay for a short time, some stay for a long time.  It can be a time for people to open up and be receptive to spirit.”

Each experience is as unique as is each individual. “There is really a sense of connecting with the Divine,” says Stephen Adams.  “You know, allowing yourself to receive inner comfort, inner peace. To perhaps receive images or thoughts that make things feel more connected.  And when I walk out of the center I feel like I'm carrying that with me and allowing it to be more fully a part of my journey and my path. It’s just a very powerful space.”