
walk the labyrinth



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