Labyrinth Info

The labyrinth is an ancient form of reflective walk. Labyrinths have been known for several thousand years, having different shapes and styles according to the tradition from which they were birthed. It has long been used for purposes that are significant to the soul and well-being of the spirit.

The labyrinth at Nathanael’s Rest is a ‘classical’ design, an ancient seven-ring labyrinth. It is found during prehistory from around the Mediterranean and northern Europe. Some examples of labyrinths found among rock-art inscriptions in Galicia, northwestern Spain, are currently considered to be some of the earliest examples, tentatively dated to perhaps as early as c.2000BC.

Whatever the origin, it seems that the labyrinth has been used for spiritual purposes from the beginning, to give the participant a way of engaging a deep inner connectedness with their experience of the divine.

A labyrinth has a single, circuitous pathway that leads from the entrance to the centre, and takes the pilgrim on a journey into the centre of themselves where God awaits to greet them. To walk the labyrinth is to touch God and let God touch us. It is a matter of presence and response.

The following suggestions may help you:

• Take time before you enter the labyrinth to be still – take in the scene – use all your senses
• Look to the centre – create a sense of purpose in your walk – see your goal
• Enter the labyrinth – walk slowly, eyes down at first
• Be aware of the rhythm of your walk – be aware of the rhythm of walking uphill then downhill – the rhythm of the circle taking you one way then back the other
• As you walk toward the centre, meditate upon what you have to bring to God
• Sit or stand in some places if you feel the need to be still and take in the experience – the sounds and fragrances of nature
• At the centre, sit and look out – sit in the presence of God at your centre
• When ready, walk out of the labyrinth meditating upon what God has given you
• Take time to be still once you have left the labyrinth and offer thanksgiving

This is an ancient form of prayer.
The labyrinth does nothing to make God more present . . . God is always present.
The labyrinth can make us aware of the presence of God in our lives.

Links to other Labyrinth organisations:

• The Labyrinth Society
• Labyrinth Locator
• Veriditas

WA Labyrinths

Click on the WA Labyrinth Listing for more information.