Exploring Texas Labyrinths
More than 6,000 labyrinths are listed around the world and 248 can be found in Texas, according to the World-Wide Labyrinth Locator.
When people think of labyrinths, they might picture the magical maze full of whimsical creatures in the cult classic film, Labyrinth, or the legendary labyrinth from Greek mythology designed to house a fearsome Minotaur. Today, labyrinths often serve as relaxing spaces for walking meditation, offering a path to wellness and personal growth. Many of these serene sanctuaries can be found in our own veritable backyards — at parks, churches, hospitals, and community centers throughout Texas.
WINDING JOURNEY
Unlike mazes that are designed to confuse and challenge with multiple paths and dead ends, modern labyrinths have a single path that guides walkers to the center and back out again. The earliest known labyrinth, though, looked quite different. Dating back 4,000 years, the Egyptian labyrinth near the pyramid of Amenemhat III is one of the Wonders of the Ancient World and was renowned for its vast, intricate layout featuring numerous chambers and corridors that bewildered visitors. The labyrinth concept has since inspired cultures around the world that have used the intricate design for spiritual contemplation, rituals and ceremonies, games, and symbolic representations of journeys or challenges.
According to The Magic of Labyrinths: Following Your Path, Finding Your Center, labyrinths can serve as a form of walking meditation – particularly for people who find it hard to sit still – as well as help with stress relief, stimulate creative thinking and problem solving, and illustrate that we are responsible for the path we chart through life. What makes labyrinths so exciting, Liz Simpson writes, is that they lend themselves to individual interpretation. “There is no single labyrinth pattern, nor is there a right or wrong way to walk a labyrinth. Each experience is unique and, if welcomed, can offer valuable insights about how to navigate life and address its challenges.”
PLANNING YOUR VISIT
First United Methodist Church Georgetown
The prayer labyrinth at First United Methodist Church is designed to help calm the mind, relax the body, reduce stress, and provide space to help guide your mind in prayer. According to FUMC’s website, “The path is a metaphor for a journey with God in which you can trust God every step of the way.” • 410 E. University Ave., Georgetown. The labyrinth is located at the end of the parking lot along the side of the Eric McKinney Christian Ministry Center. The entrance to the labyrinth faces toward East 13th Street.
Lotus Bend Retreat & Development Center
A safe, sacred space for relaxation, reflection, and connection, Lotus Bend Sanctuary offers walking paths, gardens, meditation areas, a koi pond, labyrinth, fire pit, diverse wildlife, and a beautiful creek and escarpment. • 2808 Robin Rd, Austin. Lotus Bend Sanctuary is a private facility, and visitors are asked to email [email protected] to request a tour.
Bastrop Botanical Gardens
For Deena Spellman, the labyrinth at the Bastrop Botanical Gardens was inspired by her desire to provide a place of healing after tragedy. “After the Bastrop County Complex Fire destroyed so many of our neighbors’ and customers’ homes in 2011, I wanted to create a space where people could find some peace and maybe a little hope,” the Bastrop Botanical Gardens owner told the Texas Co-op Power. “Since then, many people who needed a quiet place to heal have walked the labyrinth.” • 316 Old 71, Cedar Creek. Call 512-303-5672 to schedule a time to walk the Bastrop Botanical Gardens Labyrinth.
Jacob’s Well Natural Area
Jacob’s Well Natural Area is renowned for its artesian spring and popular swimming hole, hiking trails, play and picnic area, and a lesser-known feature, a labyrinth that provides visitors with a peaceful place to reflect and connect with nature. • 1699 Mt. Sharp Rd, Wimberley
Cave Without a Name
In addition to its awe-inspiring cave tour and monthly concerts, Cave Without a Name offers sluicing, geode cutting, walking trails, and a labyrinth that has become a popular activity for both kids and adults who need a moment to zen out. • 325 Kreutzberg Rd, Boerne
To discover more of the numerous labyrinths throughout Texas and beyond, visit waymarking.com and labyrinthlocator.org.