A Simple Guide for Walking the Labyrinth
A Simple Guide for walking the labyrinth
One common way of walking a labyrinth is to think about your journey in four phases. These 4 Rs can be a helpful way of guiding your reflections no matter which season you may be walking the labyrinth.
Remembering
Remembering serves as the first part of your labyrinth journey. That you have come to this site is the beginning of remembering that you are a seeker. God promises to be found by those who seek. Remember that you are loved. You walk in the presence of the One who cares about you and longs to bless you. While you may bring doubts or fears with you, the path is a place of safety and peace.
Releasing
Releasing begins as you enter the labyrinth and continues through your journey to the center. As you walk, quietly begin “letting-go” of concerns and distractions. As with the Lenten practice of fasting, what needs to become empty? What needs to be released? Our hands cannot receive if they are full, and neither can the heart. Walk slowly, perhaps even clenching and then opening your hands, each time speaking what you are releasing. Be mindful of your breathing. As you exhale, offer a word or phrase that describes what you are releasing. And then, as you inhale, offer a word or phrase that invites God to come in.
Receiving
Receiving becomes the third movement of your journey. Linger at the center of the labyrinth. Stand or sit, palms open. Receive the sunshine (or the rain!); allow the breeze to remind you of the stirring of the Spirit (in ancient languages, “wind” and “breath” and “spirit” were the same word). Having released cares and concerns, there is now room for God’s Spirit to share guidance, assurance, insight, wisdom, peace and other gifts. Be aware of the blessings in your life – people, opportunities, these moments of quiet. You may sit or stand in the center as long as you like. Receive and accept whatever is offered as a divine gift.
Responding
Responding forms the last part of the journey. It begins as you leave the center and begin to walk the path back out of the labyrinth. Responding may take a variety of forms. Gratitude. An action to take. An insight to share. As you return to your responsibilities, you do so aware that you are not empty-handed or alone.
Blessings to you on your journey!
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