March Spotlight: Walking Labyrinth

   Labyrinths have been a part of the world for over 400 years and can be traced back to almost every major religion. They were sacred spaces, used to symbolically represent the pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Today, labyrinths are used for meditation, prayer and self reflection.

   The labyrinth combines the imagery of circles and spirals into a meandering but meaningful path. Throughout the path you are faced with 180 degree turns, as you shift your direction, your awareness also shifts from right brain to left brain which has been said to induce receptive states of consciousness.

   It is believed that as you go deeper into the labyrinth you can go deeper into your own center, and as you make your way back out of the labyrinth, you emerge with a broadened understanding of who you are.

The 4 stages of walking a labyrinth:

   1- Prior to beginning you walk slow your breathing, relax and briefly focus your intentions before releasing them.

    2- Walk at your own pace. Quiet your mind, open your heart and release the stresses of life. For some people, it may be helpful to repeat a mantra during the journey.

   3- Upon entering the center you may sit or stand and take as much time as you like. This is the time to quiet your mind and just listen.

   4- Your journey back out is a time to integrate the experience of your walk into your life.Before you set out on your journey to the center of the labyrinth, remember that each person’s walk is a personal experience.

 

Namaste!   

By,

Jacqueline Banks
Holistic Health Counselor A.A.D.P