Labyrinth Walking
- Mindfulness -
How does a labyrinth work for mindfulness??
Mindfulness helps us to feel connected to the moment and to notice what is happening without judgment. This can take many forms from meditation, body scans and writing to guided imagery. Whichever form it takes, the practice helps to relax our bodies and minds, helps reduce stress, and is an opportunity to replenish ourselves. The temptation may be to think “I don’t have time to set aside for this”, yet much like we must take time to put gas in a car, it is important for us to refuel. In addition, as you continue to practice you will discover that daily activities can be done mindfully and incorporated into anything from eating to taking a walk. Rather than taking time aside, this can become part of our way of being.
Why is it helpful?
Mindfulness in general is helpful for our physical self, can reduce stress and anxiety, improve our thinking and attentional capacity. Mindful movement helps us to become aware of our bodies and the way we hold ourselves, as well as noticing our thoughts. If you have a busy mind, one that never seems to stop thinking, mindful movement may be a good way for you to engage in mindfulness practices.
A peaceful labyrinth by the lack or ocean.
The labyrinth and how to walk it...
How to use it
A labyrinth is different from a maze because there are no points that block you. Instead, it is a path that twists and turns back on itself with only one way out. Labyrinths have ancient roots and appear in a variety of cultures and religions.
Walking the labyrinth simply requires entering the path and taking time to follow it’s winding route to the end. The path can be walked continuously or you pause as you travel the path. I’ve often found myself beginning with a quick pace, planning to complete the walk, but still attempting to speed through to get onto the next thing. Inevitably there is a point where I realize my pace has slowed, my shoulders relaxed, my thoughts appear less frenetic and seem quieter. If you have never tried it before, plan to go into the process with no expectations, just let it happen.
How it helps after practice
As you practice labyrinth walking you may begin to realize how you can incorporate mindfulness into other movement activities whether they are formal or informal. Imagine, for example, attending to the way you feel physically when shovelling snow and the positive effect this could have.
Be kind to yourself, and enjoy the gift of mindfulness that allows disconnection from the business of the day, the temptation to multitask and to always be “on” while benefiting your mind, body and spirit.
Labyrinth locations
To locate a labyrinth click on the following link to the Ontario labyrinth locator. https://labyrinthlocator.org/
If you already know where to find one, and discover it is not on the locator, please add and help others to enjoy this experience.
