WALKING THE LABYRINTH

The Chartres Labyrinth that surrounds our small maple tree has only one way in and one way out. This labyrinth dates from the Middle Ages and is a replica of the one on the floor of the great cathedral in France. Monks once walked the labyrinth as part of their spiritual journey and as a form of meditation and prayer. Today people are rediscovering the power of the labyrinth world wide. For some, the labyrinth walk is sacred: a form of worship, prayer, meditation and connection. Others find the walk very relaxing and rejuvenating.

The labyrinth is a flowing pattern, unlike a maze in which there are dead ends, so walking it allows your creative, intuitive, and receptive part of your brain to be stimulated. As you wander slowly along the path, you may hear deeply what is longing to be heard from within. You may also find a new perspective, an answer to a problem, or a sense of connection and peace. Be open to the Spirit that resides within.

 Start at the red reflector by the bushes. If someone is already on the labyrinth give them space by allowing a couple of loops (like the chevrons on the road) for comfort. As you begin take a moment to bow, pray, make an intention or centre yourself before you walk in. Walk leisurely and stop in the centre. Enter the six stations/realms for reflection and receive the blessings, before exiting out the labyrinth, back along the path you took into the centre. (The six realms are:  mineral, plant, animal, human, angelic, divine)

 If you meet up with someone on the path you may need to step aside to allow them to pass you. It is all a part of the journey so be sure to enjoy these encounters. The walk will probably take you 30 minutes at a leisurely pace and is equal to about 1/3 mile. It is fun to note the birds and animals that appear above and around the labyrinth.

 The indoor labyrinth( the Cretan labyrinth is 3500 years old) is simpler and only takes 5-10 minutes to walk. In the center stop to receive the blessings from the four directions: North –warrior courage, South- healing, West- teaching, East – enlightenment.

 Prayer for the Labyrinth

May I be at peace. May I know the beauty of my own true nature. May my heart remain open. May I be healed. (or substitute the name of someone else)

Come anytime to walk the outdoor labyrinth. No appointment needed.