Labyrinth Gardens Are The Best Kept Secret To Mindful Living
Ancient tradition takes a modern approach with gardening
Written by Jessica Fields
Mindfulness is known as the practice of bringing attention to your present experiences without judgement. It is a state of awareness that requires practice, intent and reflection, so it should come as no surprise that location can play a big role in helping you reach that balanced space. Botanical gardens are beloved for their peaceful hideaways and the effects of walking through a park, man-made or natural, are well known to be relaxing and stress free. But what about labyrinths? Rooted in ancient tradition labyrinths are certainly nothing new, but labyrinth gardens are gaining popularity in the wellness community. These secret walking gardens, known for healing and reflection are said to be the perfect escape from the “chatter of everyday life” by blending meditation with the serenity of nature for an experience that can be as healing as it is peaceful.
What you probably already know about labyrinths, is their complex history, being tied to Greek Mythology, religion and often being confused for mazes made for amusement. But unlike a maze, the winding pathways that make up a labyrinth are made with reflection and renewal in mind. Today flat concrete labyrinth pathways are a thing of the past, and in its place are the lush, natural labyrinth gardens that can span for miles and are created as a place for personal contemplation, clarity and amity. The gardens are artfully planted with mix of grasses, flowers and herbs in order to engage all 5 senses. The experience is relaxing, like strolling the pathways of a hidden world, while seeing, hearing, smelling and feeling nature all around you. The subtle sound of the wind through tall grasses, chirping of the birds or scents of fragrant herbs and flowers are all part of the labyrinths unique way to calm your mind and clear your thoughts. All though there is just one way in and one way out, the journey through the labyrinth is entirely unique to everyone. But what is unanimous is its ability to provide the perfect place for reflection. In this digitally paced world it’s easy to forget how important routine engagement with nature is for our life balance.
courtesy of Midwest Living
To date the most well-known labyrinth garden belongs to Annamarie Frenyak of Lucas, Ohio. As a well versed mindfulness teacher who found sitting meditations difficult, she fashioned her garden after the ancient labyrinth in Frances’ Chartres Cathedral. Her garden now spans 88 ft in width, and what began as a project for personal meditative growth has now blossomed to a place for visitors to reflect and heal. She encourages her students and outside visitors to enter the garden with an open mind, setting an intention for the walk and to reflect on the journey. The walk to the center is a time for contemplating and letting go of any inner obstacles you may be facing. At the center you will find the destination for silent meditation, and on the journey out of the labyrinth allows time to integrate the thoughts and feelings engaged throughout the process. Much like botanical gardens labyrinth gardens are hard to come by, but as wellness continues to thrive and old traditions continue to resurface we hope to see more of these natural spaces of healing in the future.
Keep In Touch
What We’re Reading
