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Labyrinths-The Maze of the Mind




Labyrinths have been used for centuries, as a means to meditate and/or explore the mind. Labyrinths have been created by people for centuries and are typically a path lined by stone or wood. Often crystals are added along the path or guide stones are added for the compas points (North,South,East, West). Frequently benches are placed for resting and quiet reflection. The center point of the labyrinth is often a place is enlarged and allows one to reflect on the inner discoveries revealed in the process.
The exact composition of the labyrinth can have many variations, some are complicated  and set up with choices of paths to take such as a maze. Others are simple paths that lay out in concentric rings. The most common has the walker proceeds through each quarter of the labyrinth with each folding on itself in twists and turns before approaching the next quarter. In this way the walker moves through the East quarter (or other compass point), before heading into the Northern section.
The labyrinth walker follows the path through its many twists and turns at a slow methodical pace, stopping to reflect as one sees fit. The idea is to meditate as you follow the winding path. Once inside the labyrinth there is a quiet, magical quality that can be felt. It causes the outer world to slip out of focus and opens the door to inner exploration.
Labyrinths have been a symbol of meditation, metaphysics, and exploration for centuries, often created for royalty as well as religious institutions throughout the Europe and beyond. In today's world, the labyrinth has become popular again, many people have created labyrinths in their gardens and their yards. I personally know of one that has been made of oil cloth and travels to various spiritual places.

A friend of the family had created a full sized labyrinth in her back yard. It took her years to create it all her own. She invited us to walk the path and join in the meditative ritual. My mother and I entered the beautiful maze. The walkway was lined with smooth white stones and the walkway was made of light colored pebbles. Statues created an elegant touch, placed at intervals along the path. My mother entered first and I soon followed. As I walked, I was filled with a sense of peace and tranquility. The sounds of birds was calming. We walked along the twisting path and entered a realm of meditation that is hard to describe. This wonderful maze of peace enabled me to open my mind and explore more aspects of myself that I had not been able to before. Walking the labyrinth was an enchanting experience. It was a fulfilling experience that has stayed with me for many years.
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