Robin B. Dilley, Ph.D.
Submitted photo
By Dr. Robin B. Dilley | Arizona Labyrinth Connections
Labyrinths are experiencing a significant resurgence worldwide, but what exactly are they, and how can they benefit you?
These ancient patterns predate the time of Christ, with their intentional construction evident in 23 European cathedrals during the Middle Ages. Today, the Chartres Cathedral in Chartres, France, boasts the only walkable European Cathedral labyrinth from that period.
The Chartres Labyrinth features 11 circuits that guide you along a winding path to its center. It’s crucial to understand that a labyrinth is not a maze; there are no dead ends. You simply follow a single, continuous path that twists and turns 34 times, leading you toward the center 13 times. (Interestingly, 13 represents the number of full moons in a year.)
This design is believed to be rooted in sacred geometry, imbuing it with meditative properties. As you walk the path, placing one foot in front of the other, you may find your thoughts quieting, replaced by unexpected feelings of peace and relaxation. Negative thoughts can give way to positive insights, and a sense of wise guidance may arise. The labyrinth's path often begins to feel familiar and inviting, fostering a sense of anticipation.
Upon reaching the center, it's common practice to ask for what you need and visualize receiving it. As you follow the same path back out, you can imagine bringing these insights and gifts back into the world. Many walkers conclude their experience by offering a silent “thank you” to the labyrinth for the gifts received, some of which may not yet be visible.
Find a labyrinth near you
The Worldwide Labyrinth Locator lists 130 labyrinths in Arizona. Most outdoor labyrinths are open to the public 24 hours a day. There are two excellent options in the West Valley:
Church of the Palms, Sun City: This location features a beautiful replica of the Chartres Labyrinth, complete with a peace pole at its center. The site also features a three-circuit, wheelchair-accessible labyrinth.
Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist, Sun City West: Here you’ll find a seven-circuit classical labyrinth.
To find more labyrinths in the greater Phoenix area, visit labyrinthlocator.org.
The labyrinth at Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist Church, 13658 W. Meeker Blvd. in Sun City West.
Submitted photo/Robin B. Dilley, Ph.D.
The 11-circuit (like Chartres) and seven-circuit designs are both ancient. The seven-circuit design, for instance, can be found in petroglyphs over 4,000 years old, with some of the most ancient examples located in Goa, India.
I encourage everyone to explore both the Church of the Palms and Shepherd of the Hills United Methodist to experience the benefits of walking a labyrinth. Each offers uniquely different experiences.
Because walking a labyrinth is a meditative and mindful practice, it is something that you can do often and repetitively. It is like a river. You cannot step into the same river twice. The labyrinth is a metaphor for daily life, always changing, never the same.
And yes, sometimes it is just a walk and nothing seems to happen. However, seeds of hope, prayers, joy, peace, insight, wisdom are planted. You never know what or when they will bloom. Keep walking. Keep putting one foot in front of the other.
Editor’s note: Robin B. Dilley, Ph.D. is an author, psychologist and founder of Arizona Labyrinth Connections. She lives in Sun City. Please send your comments to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committed to publishing a wide variety of reader opinions, as long as they meet our Civility Guidelines.
