The practice of meditation can offer many benefits for both your body and mind. Research suggests that it can reduce stress, help us focus and improve the quality of our sleep. One of the most interesting ways to meditate is through walking the meditation circle or labyrinth.
A meditation circle or labyrinth is a circuitous path laid out on a flat surface. It’s basically a maze with no dead ends, designed to be walked while meditating. Like a traditional maze, it may also have twists and turns, but these are designed to help the walker focus their thoughts and breath and to cultivate an inner stillness.
The practice of walking the meditation circle can be traced all the way back to ancient Greece and Rome. It was used as a part of spiritual and healing practices to help walkers achieve spiritual awareness and refreshment. Today, the practice is still popular in many cultures and countries, including Europe and North America.
One of the great things about walking the meditation circle is that anyone can do it. You don’t need any special equipment or skills. All you need is a quiet, open space where you can safely walk without fear of tripping or being disturbed.
The path of the meditation circle can also vary. It can span several feet or as many as hundreds of yards. In some cases, a larger meditation circle may be made with two sides that meet in a middle square.
To begin walking the meditation circle, find a standing position that’s comfortable for you and breathe in and out until you feel relaxed and your body is steady. Then start walking along the circle in a clockwise direction, maintaining the same rhythm and your awareness of your breath and your body.
Listen to the sound of your feet and the environment around you. Notice the changes in your body and mind as you move. With each step bring yourself back to the present moment.
At some points during your walk, you may find yourself distracted by thoughts or physical sensations. When this happens, simply observe them without judgment and come back to the path and the rhythm of your walking.
When you get to the end of the circle, take some time to sit in silence and reflect on your experience. You may want to take this time to journal your thoughts or just savor the feeling of peace and relaxation that comes with completing the circular path.
Walking the meditation circle can be a great way to practice mindfulness and to find inner peace and relaxation. So, the next time you’re looking for a new way to meditate, consider giving it a try. You may be surprised at the results.
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