Let’s start off by explaining that a labyrinth is a meandering curved path, with a single route from the outer edge that leads to the center. Labyrinths date back thousands of years and have been used for walking meditation and other ceremonies. Labyrinths were a part of many European churches in the Middle Ages and were walked as a pilgrimage to become closer to God. Today, people walk labyrinth paths for a number of benefits — both mental and physical.

Each labyrinth is different. All are designed for walking meditation — as a way to quiet the mind, calm anxieties, reduce stress, and encourage self-reflection. As you walk the path, you can get lost in thought — and, in doing so, find yourself.

How Do You Walk A Labyrinth?

You begin a labyrinth walk at the entrance on the outer edge and proceed along the path. Allow yourself to walk at the pace your body wants, while being respectful of others who are walking. Try to clear your mind and be open to thoughts and feelings. Become aware of your breathing.

At the center of the labyrinth, you have travelled half the distance. The center is usually a place of reflection; pause, and stay as long as you like. When you are ready, begin walking out along the same path you followed in. Everyone experiences labyrinths in a different way. After having followed the path, you may not feel anything; or emotions may surface or memories may be awakened.

Where Can I Find A Labyrinth?

Most likely, you will be able to find a labyrinth near you. There are thousands of locations across the world. The Labyrinth Locator online database, which contains information on over 6,400 labyrinths, will help you find labyrinths in your community, as well as ones in areas to which you travel. Simply go online to: https://labyrinthlocator.org and search for a labyrinth in a specific area.