Distinct from a maze, labyrinths have only one path to follow which allows the analytical thinking mind to slow and intuition to emerge. Called “walking meditation” and sometimes considered a “spiritual tool”, labyrinths have been found to cultivate peace, surrender and clarity on matters that weigh on us.
What Basically Does It Look Like?
Though there is no right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth, and it does not necessarily require any guidance. A Labyrinth Facilitator can enhance your experience by providing context beforehand, assisting with interpretation afterward, and can suggest particular methods, rituals or approaches to add meaning to your walk. A labyrinth has no dead ends or alternate paths. There are turns, though the distance between them varies, but the path always takes you to centre and back out the same way. Walking a labyrinth requires no problem-solving or decision-making. The rational brain is relieved of responsibility, leaving the intuitive self freed up to express itself, and the senses opened up to the present moment. More detail can be found in experience descriptions.
Where Does It Take Place?
The Forest Labyrinth is a delightful serpentine path threaded organically among the trees in a woodland nature setting. A wide path of pine needles helps make it accessible to a broad range of people and ages, and offers a quiet and comfortable walk. The pattern, inspired by the famous Chartres Cathedral labyrinth, is designed to gently disorient you in hopes you will trust it to take you where it leads.
Why Can It Be Beneficial?
Labyrinths have been known for over 4000 years. They are found, in some form, in most religions and spiritual traditions across many cultures and societies. A resurgence of began in the 1990s and, in the time since, the applications and audience has continued to broaden: labyrinths have been found helpful to promote mindfulness, healing, peace and insight. Contemporary books on labyrinths include applications exploring a range of dilemmas and issues including: life purpose & direction, grief/death, forgiveness, creativity, relationships, and shadow work.
Who Delivers This Service?
Neil Baldwin, your facilitator, travelled across America by train to San Francisco to be trained by Veriditas, a non-profit organization dedicated to introducing people to the worldwide labyrinth movement. He has been a guest speaker at labyrinth gatherings, had articles about labyrinths published in print media, and regularly welcomes people to walk the unique forest labyrinth he built on his rural property near Owen Sound. Read full bio.
How Can I Access This Service?
A labyrinth journey is one of over a dozen experiences you may select from for your Personal Day Retreat. It is also available as an add-on for airbnb guests staying on-site, or may be booked for small groups as a standalone service.
Soul Trail 