A labyrinth is a physical way to pray, and for me personally a picture of the spiritual journey. It’s not a maze, it has a center and one way to get there. There are two movements, toward and away. When you’re prayer-walking a labyrinth, it often doesn’t feel like you’re making progress at all.
Because Labyrinths have been used for thousands of years, and can be found in many cultures, including ancient India, Spain, Peru, and China, protestant Christians might be skeptical of their use. But, I have found praying the way of the labyrinth to be meditative and grounding. These images remind me that the path or journey with God sometimes feels like we are walking away, or far, from God. But the reality is we are already in “the Trinitarian dance,”* we are on the path. As you’re moving along on the path, it can feel like you’re heading farther from the center, not towards. Then, a turn happens, and the next thing you know you’ve arrived at the center. You were never lost! You were never far off. One foot in front of the other, the way made itself clear.
Praying a Labyrinth
I’ll highlight a few of my favorite ‘on the ground’ ideas here, with resources for more learning below. There’s no right or wrong way to labyrinth walk, as long as you’re being neighborly, and kind to yourself as well.
- Arrive and set a focus or intention. I have a favorite verse I often use, but maybe your intention is a word or a person you’re praying for. Use a notecard or paper if you want to remember what you’re intending.
- As you enter, be mindful. Focus on your breathing and walk slowly. Some people go barefoot (or if it’s canvas, in socks) to add to a sense of being grounded.
- Remain present as you walk, but also be gentle with yourself. Thoughts will come, let them. Bring them to God if they’re “sticky…” There may be a reason! Return to your intention or verse.
- Use all of your senses.
- When you arrive at the center, take your time there. Reflect, experience stillness, or repeat your intention. Ask, listen, pray. Some people leave a rock or token in the center. Sit, kneel, or stand.
- With gratitude, closure, or even a new intention, exit the middle and retrace your steps back outward. You are taking this experience and those God has placed on your heart back “into the world.” Don’t rush out, remain mindful and enjoy the peace and gratitude you may feel. If you feel nothing, that’s okay too.
- Upon exiting, you may wish to stand and look back over your journey. If you’re into it, you can journal or pray as you reflect on the experience. Consider who you’re becoming, and what actions might need to take place as a result of the experience.
Resources:
- Types of Labyrinths
- Many ways to prayer walk a labyrinth
- Printable reflection to take with you
- Find a labyrinth near you