Labyrinths are concentric walking paths used for the purposes of prayer, meditation, or quiet contemplation. Many people find the slow rhythm of walking a helpful embodied practice that aids their mental well-being or spiritual expression.

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These walking paths come in many different shapes and sizes, and have been used in ancient greek, medieval european, and various indigenous communities. The difference between a labyrinth and a maze is, there is no way to get lost or make a wrong decision in a labyrinth - only one consistent path leading you to a central destination. What a great metaphor for life!

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There is no wrong way to walk a labyrinth; apply whatever meaning or symbolism you choose, so long as you are respectful of the space and your fellow walkers.

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One practice that sometimes is used involves 3 movements...

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1) RELEASE - as you walk in towards the centre, try to acknowledge, release and unburden yourself from the thoughts you are carrying.

2) RECEIVE - upon arriving in the centre, enjoy a time of quiet stillness, where you are open to receiving new insight or a word of inspiration.

3) RETURN - as you walk the path back out of the labyrinth, consider how you might reengage the world, applying the new insight from this practice.

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It's okay if walking the labyrinth doesn't "work" for you every time. Like most contemplative exercises, it can take some practice and is often fruitful over time.

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ECM has a few different indoor, canvas labyrinths which we make available on campus at different times, or loan out. There are also a few other labyrinths in Guelph - at the Ignatius Centre, Three Willows United Church, and Homewood, for instance.