Guidance for Walking the Labyrinth

When people walk the labyrinth, they may have a variety of reasons for doing so, may expect different things, and experience a variety of responses. Often people walk to ask a specific question, or to create a spiritual space, or to open their hearts.

The labyrinth for most brings forth life metaphors. A walker first entering may seem very close to the center but soon realizes it takes much longer to get there. The center presents itself just when it seems farthest. Sharing the space with others can be a spiritual connection - passing one another, drifting away, walking in parallel only to turn away and then again towards.

Over the centuries, people have had different and similar reactions to the space. It contains seeds of the mystery lacking today and gives us a taste of ancient ritual. The labyrinth was laid down by members of the Community for Interfaith Celebration and is a gift to The United Churches community for all to enjoy and use in contemplation. May your spirit grow as you do so.
-- Janet F. Ott, Ph. D.
Coordinator of the C.I.C. Labyrinth Project

In Christian spirituality, the inner journey of the spiritual life is often described as "centering down." A labyrinth walk with its three parts is a wonderful way to do this. Each part calls for a different use of sacred time.

Moving inward is a time to release - to discard, unwrap, forget, or step out of guilts, resentments, failures, shames, insecurities; habitual ways of being and doing; old notions about ourselves, our neighbors, and God; and the noise, demands, and distractions all around us.

Standing in the center is a time to receive - to be open, expectant, and receptive to the gifts of life and the grace of God; an inner voice; a blessing, new possibility, and sense of freedom.

Moving outward is a time to respond - to feel comforted and filled with new energy so that you can reaffirm your intentions to live a spiritual life; rest in the assurance of God's unconditional love; move away from anxiety, guilt, and despair toward peace, faith, and trust; and prepare to act upon your commitments.
-- from Mary Ann Brussat on walking the labyrinth

http://www.loneeaglelabyrinths.com/sug.html

from Lone Eagle website - suggestions for walking the labyrinth

There is no wrong way or right way to walk a labyrinth at any time. It is best, however, if you wish to receive the maximum benefit from your online meditation, that you are not disturbed during your virtual walk. Following are a few suggestions as you prepare to walk any labyrinth: Pause and take a few moments to quiet and calm yourself... take a couple of deep focusing breaths... becoming aware of what is inside, possibly reflect on where you are in your life... bringing anything that may be burdensome to you or something you wish to receive an answer for into your conscious mind before beginning your walk... requesting spiritual guidance.

The walk to the center is a quieting of the mind... calming yourself, releasing all tension and conscious thoughts... opening yourself to receiving an answer or releasing whatever you need to... trusting and having faith that the labyrinth will assist you in this process.

Stop along the way if you wish and proceed again when you are ready. (On your virtual labyrinth walk, you can push the Stop button at any time, pushing Restart to continue.)

After you reach the center, you may allow your attention to stay there for awhile, becoming aware of what is inside you... whatever you are feeling in your heart... remaining in the center for as long as you wish.

The walk back out from the center can be seen as returning to one's life... with a new approach toward whatever question or issue you brought into the labyrinth... feeling a sense of empowerment from the experience.

Some walkers wish to not focus on anything in particular, clearing themselves... trusting they will receive whatever message is for their highest good. However you choose to walk the labyrinth, just be open to the experience and allow the energies of healing and inner peace into your being.

"When we allow ourselves silent time, we are able to hear the voice of God. When in prayer, instead of just talking to God, Listen. If we really want to learn to pray, we must first learn to listen. For in the silence of the heart, God speaks."
-- Mother Teresa, Everything Starts from Prayer

see http://www.loneeaglelabyrinths.com/dance.html for beautiful Chalice Labyrinth and nice "blessing" by Beverly Garcia