Peaceful Paths
Pilgrims of all faiths, traditions, and cultures use labyrinthine paths to go deep within themselves and emerge with clarity.
A swirling path that leads to a purposeful center is an image replicated throughout nature. From fern leaves and spiders’ webs to nautilus shells and the spirals on our fingertips, we’re reminded that at the source, we’re all connected.
The sacred symbol of the labyrinth is imprinted in Neolithic tombs, on Hopi Indian baskets, in Parisian church courtyards, on Grecian clay tablets, and across the English countryside. As a universal divine space, it doesn’t have the usual boundaries of faith, culture, or tradition: it’s open to everyone, and provides a unique experience for each individual. For some ancient peoples, the labyrinth represented a path to the afterlife. For others, it embodied the passage of birth. Today, many pilgrims consider the walk within a labyrinth to be a powerful reminder of the possibility of clarity, awakening, release, and focus.
Unlike mazes, labyrinths are unicursal; there’s only one pathway, and no need to decide whether to go left or right. On a unicursal venture, the left side of your brain, responsible for governing logic and linear thought, rests. The right side of your brain, which prompts intuitiveness and non-verbal exploration, engages. The belief is that walking a labyrinth creates a balance between both hemispheres of your brain.
Why are you a pilgrim in a labyrinth, and not merely tip-toeing between the lines? Sister Betty Daugherty is the leader of spiritual retreats at the Prairiewoods Franciscan Spirituality Center in Hiawatha, and co-creator of the labyrinth there. “The labyrinth serves as a metaphor for life,” she says. “It’s an ancient symbol that spoke to our spiritual ancestors of their pilgrimage here on earth. Walking its twists and turns helps us to come into touch with the challenges and experiences of our lives. Time spent in the center of the labyrinth is to allow the heart to be opened, to welcome insights about our lives. It’s a place to receive whatever gift is being offered.” Daugherty says the path is based on the universal understanding of mediation: to release and quiet; to open and receive; and to take what was gained back into the world.
In Iowa, there are numerous labyrinths, both indoor and outdoor. Many are open to the public, but you may need to contact locations for specific visiting hours. Find them easily at labyrinthlocator.com.
It’s no coincidence that many labyrinths are established as part of tranquil landscapes, or created with elements of earth, fire, and water. Returning a wandering pilgrim to the center of his or her being often requires a literal reconnection with the natural world. Indian Creek Nature Center in Cedar Rapids will construct a Baltic grass labyrinth at its new location later this spring. Jennifer Rupp, a former naturalist there, says, “Evolution occurs in nature, but society puts four walls around us and isolates us from this environment,” she says. “Spending time in nature reminds us that life carries on at all levels, and we’re a small piece of that big picture. And a nice stroll outdoors in a labyrinth does so much for our wellbeing. We have the opportunity to refocus our splintered minds, exercise our bodies, and receive the energy of the labyrinth.”
There’s no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth. Your individual experiences, beliefs, and values all influence the journey. However, both Daugherty and Rupp suggest taking a moment before you enter it to release worldly burdens, pause for reflection on where you are in your life, and then proceed with a sense of calm. When you reach the center, stay as long as you like, and be receptive to whatever energy, emotions, or insights you might encounter.
As you leave the labyrinth, take with you whatever peace or perceptions obtained on your journey. Everyone has a different reaction to time spent within the symbol. Daugherty recommends journaling as a way to reflect upon your experiences.
This article was originally published in YogaIowa’s Spring 2017 issue.
