A Walking Meditation
The power of walking the path of the labyrinth is in its simplicity. The
Unity of Prescott Labyrinth
labyrinth presents an orderly path to quiet the mind, and as the body moves into a peaceful rhythm of walking, one becomes more closely in tune with God. Step-by-step, one becomes more receptive to insight and illumination.
Walking the labyrinth is not something to learn or memorize, but something to experience. It is a walking meditation, a devotional act of worship, and a sacred celebration of life.
There is no right or wrong way to walk the labyrinth, just as there is no right or wrong way to pray. Walking the path is a personal experience, an opportunity for a “closer walk with God.”
The Labyrinth Tradition
Labyrinths have an ancient history dating back at least 4000 years. Unity’s labyrinth is modeled after one laid into the floor of the cathedral at Chartres, France, in 1220. Over the centuries, Christian pilgrims and others have engaged in the prayer of the mind, body, and heart that the labyrinth offers. The mystical tradition of labyrinths has been revived in recent years, thanks particularly to the work of Dr. Lauren Artress, Episcopal priest and author of Walking a Sacred Path:. Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a Spiritual tool. People around the world are once again walking the path and engaging in its powerful process of spiritual transformation.
The Design of the Unity Labyrinth
The design of the Unity labyrinth is a replica of the one found in France. It is one continuous path that winds into the center and back out again. A labyrinth is not a maze; there are no tricks or dead ends. One cannot get lost, and success is assured.
The Labyrinth is a archetypal symbol of wholeness that invites one into a transformative prayer experience. Walking this mystical path is a personal pilgrimage to spiritual wholeness.
Suggestions for Walking the Labyrinth
Leave your cares at the entrance.
Walk in silence.
Clear your mind and become aware of your breath.
Allow yourself to find the pace your body wants to go.
You may pass others or allow others to step around you, at the turns.
At the center you can stand or sit quietly for a time. Then follow the same path out from the center.
Walking the Labyrinth can be as a silent meditation, asking a question or seeking guidance.
There are 3 stages of the walk:
First: Until you reach the center it is a shedding …a releasing …a letting go of the details of life. It quiets the mind.
Second: Is when you are in the center … it is Illumination …stay there as long as you like. It is a place of meditation and prayer. Receive what is there for you. Then slowly leave the center and return to the outer edge.
Third: Is the Union …joining with God. Your higher power or the forces at work in the world.
Each time your walk the Labyrinth you become more empowered to find and do the work you feel your soul is seeking.
When You Walk the Labyrinth
Stop, relax and breathe deeply at the entrance. Realize that walking the labyrinth is a sacred activity, not to be rushed or forced. You may wish to set an intention before you begin your walk.
Walk slowly, following the winding path toward the center. Release all busy thoughts, worries or concerns. if you meet a fellow traveler on the path, simply step aside and pass with reverence.
When you get to the center, pause for a few moments and focus your attention on God. Remain in a receptive, meditative state to receive illumination, insight, clarity and focus.
As you leave the center and return outward along the path, offer silent thanks and praise. This is time for you to be empowered, energized and grounded.
Here at Unity of Prescott, our labyrinth offers all another way to pray. It is located outdoors in the northwest corner of our parking lot outside of Fellowship Hall. It is open all year, weather permitting.