A Description and Definition

A labyrinth is a unicursal winding path that transverses back and forth meandering its way to to a center point. It is sometimes thought of as a maze and the difference between the two is that a maze has many openings where a labyrinth has just one.

It's purpose is to take one on a journey inward and once reached reflect the journey back. In this aspect it is thought to some to be a walking meditation. To others it is a prayer tool to deepen meaning. Others still relate it as a calming experience for the body and mind, while more would look at it as a tool of metaphor.

In all it is an experience one can take to journey into the center of you. This is an experiencial adventure where one can speak of it, though to know it more deeply, one must walk.

Using the Labyrinth

There are endless ways in which to use the labyrinth as individuals who know and use them are very curious and creative and come up with new uses all the time. That is what this Heartland Labyrinth Circle is all about, collaborating, sharing and resource.

For personal use it is suggested to stop and find a quiet place to consider why you want to walk a labyrinth. Though it is not necessary to do so, it can open the door to allow you to find your answer with an intention in mind.

The first suggestion is to release. Let go of the busy mind with many agendas and simply be with your experience as you begin. When ready one simply finds the open path and ventures in staying on the path traversing the labyrinth winding until they come to the center.

The second suggestion is to receive. Once in the center the body is more relaxed and the mind may have stopped the chattering. It is at this place that you can hear more of your own beliefs and feel your spirituality. Be open to what comes to your mind, what you feel and how you act.

The third suggestion is to reflect. When you leave the center, take time on your journey back to notice what occured as you entered, what you found and how you feel. Perhaps you may notice thoughts clearing, peacefulness, a calm or nothing at all. Each walk yields its own experience, and all may not be readily noticable at first or at all.

For Group use there are a variety of ways and a variety of labyrinth styles to support the intention of the walk. When a group gathers to walk a labyrinth, they may have a preset agenda, purpose or a particular focus. At other times there are simply "open walks" or "public walks" where individuals are invited to join as a group to walk among others. Think of it as a personal walk in a public setting.

Some ideas for group use include:

Celebration, Earth Day, Holidays, Community Gathering, Board Meetings, Weddings, Birthdays, Grief Ceremonies, Baptismals, Retirement Honors, Cancer Support or Survival, Memorials, Retreats, Conflict Resolution, Creating Collaboration, Creating Cultural Diversity, Uniting Individuals, Workshops, Environmental Issues, Wellness, Introspection, Team building, Meditation, Creativity, New Idea Formation, Exploration, Acceptance, Welcoming, 12 step programs, Personal Growth and more

Types of Labyrinths

Labyrinths are classified in four main categories:
Classical
The Classical or the Cretan is the oldest design found and is set in a seven circuit design, though can be found in 11 and 15 circuits.
Medieval
The medieval typically has 11 circuits and is separated in quarters where each quarter overlaps and joins the network of the labyrinth
Roman
Roman labyrinths are square or circular in shape and have four quadrants that are walked one at a time instead of crossing over to others, each quadrant is completed before journeying to the next.
Contemporary
These are more modern designs made up of the constructs of a labyrinth though take on a unique look and feel. To be a true labyrinth there must be only one opening, though a few with intent purposes fit this description

Labyrinths can be made of a variety of materials from stone, marble, wood, grass, brick, dirt, sand and natural elements or man made elements. These are typically set in location and known as permanent labyrinths

Canvas labyrinths are drawn on large canvas fabric and designed to be mobile so they can be used in a variety of places. They come in a variety of sizes from 12 feet in diameter to 50 feet or more. Some fabric labyrinths are also made to be used outdoor.

 

Finger Labyrinths

Finger Labyrinths are sculpted labyrinths in a variety of materials designed to allow the individual to participate in a walk using their finger to trace the path instead of walking it. There are many who cannot physically walk and this is a good tool though there are large labyrinths made for wheel chairs too. Some use it for a quick experience while others may use a finger labyrinth with specific meaning in a group

Finger labyrinths come in many designs and in a variety of materials and a variety of sizes. Wood, marble, glass, clay, copper, metal, fabric and even ground wheat.

Benefits of Walking a Labyrinth

There are many benefits to walking a labyrinth for the body, mind and soul. This makes it an overall benefit for the individual. Here are a few ways it can benefit:

Induces the relaxation response
Lowers blood pressure
Relieves Stress
Improves sensory processing
Improves balance
Reduces negativity
Serves as a therapeutic tool for recovery
Increases focus and concentration
Serves as tool for conflict resolution
Inspires creativity and empowerment
Promotes Cooperation
Meditative
Develops Inner peace

Where Labyrinths are found

Labyrinths are found all over the world in every country. Some of the oldest have been found in Africa and Europe. In the United States they can be found in a variety of places in each state.

Labyrinths are found in a variety of places including:
Private homes and businesses
Hospitals
Churches
Schools
Parks
Wellness Centers
Retreat Centers
Medical Communities
Community areas
Public Gardens
Business Development
Senior Centers
Spiritual Centers

In Illinois there is an ongoing expedition of labyrinths to explore, where a list will be posted late in 2011. In the meantime one may find locations listed at the World Wide Labyrinth Locator found both on the Labyrinth Society Website and the Veriditas Website.

World Wide Labyrinth Locator

The Heartland Labyrinth Circle

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