Labyrinths have been around for thousands of years.  Often mistaken for mazes, which are designed to trap and confuse, labyrinths are designed to calm and clarify.  They achieve this by having only one path, one way in and one way out.  

 

It is believed that their original purpose was to symbolize the pilgrimage to holy sites and lands for those who were unable to travel the distance for one reason or another.  Modern mystics use labyrinths to help them achieve a contemplative state. Walking among the turnings, one loses track of direction and of the outside world, and thus quiets the mind. 

 

Many newly-made labyrinths exist today, in churches and parks.  Arid Spirit will soon have an indoor labyrinth for our guests.  In the meantime, The Labyrinth Society has a listing of labyrinths available world wide.