A Short Guide to Walking the Labyrinth

Walking is one of the various practices in use for seekers of the transendental experience. The labyrinth represents a journey, a pilgrimage, a concious taking of time to seek God. Making the choice to walk, and taking the first step is to risk discovering the mystery at the very center of our being. It is to choose intentionslly to be on a spiritual journey.

Because there is only one path to the center, there is no wrong turnings in the labyrinth. Prepare to walk the labyrinth by conciously taking off and putting aside, those things that may prevent you from the full experience: your worries, the errands you must do today, and so forth. Many people find it helpful to choose a word or image to focus their attention as they walk. Some suggestions are: Light, Love, Holy One, Wisdom, Almighty God, Lead me O Lord, Spirit of God, descend upon my heart, O God, make haste to help me. On other occasions, you might simply lift uip to God your need for healing, or put your problems into God's hands.

Walking the labyrinth means choosing a pace which is comfortable for you. If others are walking at the same time, you may need to step around someone who is walking more slowly than you are, or coming in the opposite direction. When you arrive at the center, stand still (or sit there) for a while, trying to relax and empty your mind od any thoughts. This is the time when you might hear God's answer to your prayers. when you are ready to go on, you have a choice: you may walk directly out of the labyrinth using the short exit, or you may go back through the labyrinth. As you do the outward walk, you may be aware of a new direction you've been given, an increase level of energy, or a gift you may be able to share with others.

Resources for further reading, available in the library at St. Thomas:
  • Labyrinths from the Inside Out: Walking to Spiritual Insight by Donna Schaper and Carole Ann Camp, 2001, Skylight Paths Publishing

  • Exploring the Labyrinth: A Guide for Healing and Spiritual Growth by Melissa West, 2000, Random House

  • Walking a Sacred Path: Rediscovering The Labyrinth as a Spiritual Tool by Lauren Artress, 1995, Riverhead Books

  • "Rediscovering the Labyrinth: A Walking Meditation" video, produced by Lauren Artress