Labyrinth practice quiets the body and mind so that you can listen more easily and relate more deeply with yourself and God. Walking the labyrinth in the Chartres Cathedral usually takes 20 to 35 minutes.
“Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7
Suggested steps for a labyrinth walk:
- Before you begin, decide why you are going to walk. Focus. (You may use one of the suggestions below.)
- Stand before the entrance and pray, dedicating the walk.
- Move into the pattern. The path you are on leads to the center. Trust. Go at any pace (fast or slow) that seems comfortable. Notice what is happening around you and make it part of your walk. If you get turned around, you will either end up in the center or at the entrance/exit. Wherever you find yourself, continue from there. You can always leave the labyrinth if you want to.
- When you get to the center, rest. Reflect on what has happened so far, or simply tune in to what you are sensing. Don’t hurry away.
- When you are ready, take the pathway back out. You may wish to continue with what has started, or consider how to integrate what it into your life.
- When you reach the threshold, give thanks for whatever your experience has been.
- After moving off the pattern, reflect on what happened. Write down your thoughts and feelings, or creatively express them in another way (drawing, movement, etc.).
Suggestions for labyrinth prayer:
- Walk with openness. Receive what comes.
- Begin with the question, “What is my next step?” Follow where it leads your mind and body as you move.
- On the way to the center pray for your needs. In the center, rest with God. On the way out, pray for the needs of others.
- Repeat a short phrase that has meaning: “Thy will be done…”
- More suggestions
