The Labyrinth on The Mountain The Labyrinth is an archetype, a divine imprint, found in all religious traditions in various forms around the world. A labyrinth has only one path, so there are no tricks to it and no dead ends. The path winds throughout and becomes a mirror for where we are in our lives. It touches our sorrows and releases our joys. Walk it with an open mind and an open heart. There are many ways to walk a labyrinth and no rules. You may be seeking relaxation, prayer, problem solving or healing. Here are some guidelines for a process that is frequently used. You may use what suits you or do your own thing — it’s your walk. • Prepare; set your intention. Reflect on your life right now. Perhaps you have a specific issue or concern. Clarify what you are seeking. Or simply quiet your mind, suspend judgment and be aware of what is, both within you and around you. • Walk in. Set your own pace, stop if you chose. This is a time of releasing, a letting go of the details of your life. This is the act of shedding thoughts and distractions — a time to open the heart and quiet the mind. • When you reach the center, stay there as long as you like. It is a place of meditation and prayer. Receive what is there for you to receive. • When you are ready, begin the journey back. Be aware of your feelings, your energy and any insights or images. Each time you walk the labyrinth you become more empowered to find and do the work you feel your soul reaching for. • Reflect on your experience — before you re-engage fully with your everyday life, sit quietly and observe what happened on your walk, in your inner awareness and around you. Think about metaphors in your life. Ponder, write or draw to remember and integrate the experience. Guidelines for the Walk Quiet your mind and become aware of your breath. Allow yourself to find the pace your body wants to go. The path is two ways. Those going in will meet those coming out. You may "pass" people or let others step around you. Do what feels natural. Site Map About Us | Programs | Bringing a Group | Calendar | Volunteers | Donate | Contact Us | Site Map | Privacy Policy The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc. • 3872 Dillard Road • P.O. Box 1299 • Highlands, NC 28741 Phone: 828-526-5838 • Fax: 781-846-1295 • Email © Copyright 2004 The Mountain Retreat & Learning Center, Inc.