How to walk the Labyrinth…
There is no right way … no necessary skill or preferred method. Any preparation, any kind of mindfulness that's helpful to your and nourishing to your inner life, is appropriate and welcome.
We ask that you first remove your shoes - to protect the canvas, and to acknowledge the way in which the time you will walk is time set apart - consecrated time.
Many people find it helpful…
…to get ready for your walk by sitting or standing quietly for a few moments -
- let go of some of the cares of the day
- breathe deeply - notice it, enjoy it, and consider the simple miracle of breath
- allow yourself to receive the gift of this small island of time in the midst of your day
…to keep a reflective silence in the walking area for the sake of the journeys of others
…to use some particular way of thinking about your walk, if it's helpful; for instance -
- As you embark, carry something with you in your mind that you'd like to let go of. When you reach the center, take time to leave it there - and then savor your return walk in the freedom from that burden.
…or…
- Think about something you're looking for, hoping to find, longing for - and when you arrive at the center, see what insight may be waiting to greet you there.
…or…
- Enjoy the sensation of traveling without any particular sense of destination; for once, let yourself be a "holy wanderer," enjoy the meandering path and let yourself feel aimless.
…or…
- Use any other way that's helpful to you!
Feel free to linger in the center for as long as you like.
As you walk, you will meet others walking in the opposite direction. Feel free to simply step around the meeting point so that you can both pass with comfort.
When you finish your walk…
Take a few moments to get yourself ready to return to the rest of your day. Don't rush the transition! Savor whatever quiet, calm, insight or feeling may have come to you. Think about how you'd like to have it accompany you as you leave.
Write a few words about your experience in the Labyrinth guest book, if you like.
And plan to return - knowing that, for most people, no two walks are exactly alike!
