Labyrinth Walking
When I moved into my current home in the east suburbs of Pittsburgh 25 years ago the potential garden beds around the perimeter of my house were completely filled with river rock. I spent years moving rocks and giving rocks away so that I could uncover the soil and plant various shrubs, bulbs, flowers, vegetables and herbs. I became creative with the excess rocks and used some to make a small labyrinth in a shady, flat space in my backyard.
When I first toured the site for the Rachel Carson EcoVillage at Providence Heights I was thrilled to discover that the Sisters of Divine Providence retreat center is home to a wonderful walking labyrinth.
Labyrinth walking is an ancient practice used by many faiths. Walking a labyrinth is a form of active meditation which can provide spiritual centering and contemplation. Slow, intentional walking in a quiet place on a set path can be surprisingly calming and clarifying for your thoughts.
There are many good books about labyrinth walking such as Walking a Sacred Path by Lauren Artress. In this book the author, a psychotherapist and Episcopal priest, explores the history and significance of the image of the labyrinth and explains how you can use it to lead yourself to new sources of wisdom, change and renewal. I’m looking forward to exploring and experiencing labyrinth walking when living in our RCE community at Providence Heights.
– Miriam Baker, Founding member & future resident of RCE, July 19, 2024