Meditation Garden &
Labyrinth

Walking the Labyrinth:

When weather permits, all are invited to walk the Labyrinth in our Meditation Garden. The labyrinth is a spiritual tool that integrates the physical, spiritual, emotional, and rational into one, using a form of meditation that is enhanced by utilizing our bodies as well as our hearts. In walking the Labyrinth, people may find God, peace, comfort, guidance, and much more.

It has one path — it is not a puzzle to figure out, but one path to the center and back, that helps to lead us to our center and the divine at that center. Along the way, which acts as a metaphor for life’s journey, the path takes unexpected turns; just when we think we know where we are, where we’re going, and what to do, the path switches back on us. One minute we’re sure we’re headed for the center, the next we’re flung out again to the outer rings.

There are many ways to walk the labyrinth, depending on who you are and what’s happening in your life. Before you begin, reflect on where you are in your life, and perhaps define something to focus on, such as a question or situation you’d like guidance or direction on, a prayer concern, or just a quest for peace in your soul. There is no right or wrong way to walk; try not to listen to a voice inside that says to do it differently. Begin at the one entrance into the Labyrinth, walking slowly, stopping along the way if you wish, and stay on the path. If there is someone else on the path, you may go around them and continue your walk. When you arrive at the center, you may remain there for a while or turn and follow the path back to where you started. Here are some possible approaches as you walk:

• Quiet your mind, let all thoughts go as they present themselves, and be attentive to any emotions that come up.

• Focus on a question that you’ve been asking yourself, preferably not a “yes” or “no” question. There is nothing magical about the Labyrinth walk, but it will allow your consciousness to open so that new or deeper parts of yourself can speak to you. Even if you can’t articulate the question well, have a sense of the question and begin.

• Meditate by repeating a word, mantra, or phrase over and over to yourself.

• Read scripture; you may experience God differently, or gain a deeper understanding of your faith.

• Ask for help through prayer. Pray for others by name as you walk. Talk to God as if you were writing a letter. Asking God for what we need is a way of nurturing us spiritually.