Life is a sacred journey and we are all on the path.  The labyrinth is a model of that path.

At its most basic level, the labyrinth is a metaphor for the journey to the center of your deepest self and back out into the world with a broadened understanding of yourself, your place, and your purpose.

The labyrinth has only one path.  The way in is the way out.  There are no blind alleys.  You enter the labyrinth trusting that you will reach the center.

There is no right way to walk a labyrinth.

You only need to enter and follow the path.

The Shadow Hills labyrinth is located under the oak tree at the corner of Sunland Blvd. and Johanna Ave.  It is open to everyone to walk at their own convenience.    Candlelight and seasonal walks are organized quarterly.  Simple orientation is offered to those who are new to labyrinth walking.

General suggestions for walking a labyrinth:

Focusing:  Pause at the entrance.  Become open and receptive to whatever God has for you in this time and place.  Give acknowledgement through a nod, bow, or other gesture and then enter and begin following the path.

Experiencing:  You may walk as slowly or quickly as you wish.  If others are on the path with you, feel free to step around them (off the path) or let them step around you.  Your walk toward the center may be a time to clarify a question or problem before God, to shed concerns you have brought with you, to meditate on a repeated phrase of scripture, to express prayers of praise and thanksgiving, or to ask for healing for yourself or another.  It may be a time to simply calm yourself, shed the stresses of the day, and find deep peace.

Resting:  When you reach the center, you may stand there for a long as you like.  Be receptive to whatever God might bring to you – a word, feeling, image, thought, or sense of calm.

Returning:  The walk out is symbolic of taking what you have received back out into the world in order to incorporate it into your life or to act upon it.  You may have no answer or “message”, yet be open to the idea of work having begun in you that will come to consciousness in its own time.  On the other hand, you may have a fresh insight or feeling of having been graced, refreshed, guided, or challenged.

Exiting:  Turn and face the entrance.  Give an acknowledgement of the end of your journey and your gratitude for the walk, such as a nod, bow, or “Amen”.

Reflecting:  After walking the labyrinth, take time to reflect on your experience.  It may be helpful to record your thoughts in a journal, share your experience with a friend, or express it in a creative way.