Monday, October 29, 2007

Walking A Labyrinth

Solvitur ambulando…It is solved by walking…

--Saint Augustine


A labyrinth is an ancient symbol that relates to wholeness. It combines the imagery of the circle and the spiral into a meandering but purposeful path. The labyrinth represents a journey to our own center and back again out into the world. Labyrinths have long been used as meditation and prayer tools.

Walking a labyrinth is a right brain task. It involves perception, creativity, and imagery. With a maze many choices must be made and an active mind is needed to solve the problem of finding the center. With a labyrinth there is only one choice to be made. The choice is to enter or not. A more passive, receptive mindset is needed. The choice is whether or not to walk a spiritual path.

I am a right brain person and I have the need to move. Walking a labyrinth is something I crave and I have had very moving moments while using one as a tool for prayer. I love the openness of a time on the labyrinth—it accepts you for whatever age you are, where you are in your faith, what you look like, or whether you needing to move mountains or molehills.

If you want to learn more you will certainly enjoy Walking A Sacred Path by Dr. Lauren Artress. She explores the historical origins of the labyrinth and shares the discoveries of modern-day seekers. If you question the potential of a labyrinth this book will inspire you to try a walk to quiet your mind and open your soul.

To find a labyrinth near you click here.

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