Retreat for Women – May 3rd to May 5th, 2024

Chartres Labyrinth Walking Meditation

Women’s Expressions was at the Women’s Retreat on Sunday, May 5th, from 9:30 AM to 12:00 PM. Jo-Anne Landriault directed a meditation, but not just any kind of meditation. This was a special meditation that involved walking a labyrinth while meditating. As the women walked the sacred path, guided by Jo-Anne’s soothing presence, they released their burdens and opened their hearts to deeper insights and spiritual renewal. This unique experience combined physical movement with meditative focus, creating a powerful journey of self-discovery and inner peace.

This was made possible using a portable walking labyrinth with a 14-foot diameter, suitable for any home or medium-sized conference room.

Designed in the style of the labyrinth found on the floor of Chartres Cathedral in France, it brings the ambiance of a sacred space into our environment, setting the stage for a remarkable journey to enlightenment.

Walking the Chartres Labyrinth is a moving meditation, inviting participants to slow down, breathe deeply, and connect with their inner selves. Walking meditation, as practiced in the labyrinth, integrates the physical act of walking with the mental act of meditating. This practice encourages mindfulness, focusing on the rhythm of your steps, the sensation of your feet touching the ground, and the flow of your breath. The repetitive, deliberate movements help to quiet the mind and bring awareness to the body, creating a sense of harmony and balance.

Each phase of the labyrinth walk can mirror stages of spiritual growth:
Entering the Labyrinth: This is a time to release and let go of the stresses and distractions of the outside world. It’s a symbolic shedding of old burdens as you step onto the path.
Reaching the Center: The labyrinth’s center is a reflection, meditation, and prayer place. It represents arriving at the core of one’s being, where insight and transformation can occur.
Returning: The journey back out of the labyrinth symbolizes a reintegration of the insights gained and a return to the world, renewed and with a deeper sense of purpose.

The central rose is at the heart of the Chartres Labyrinth, a circular space symbolizing enlightenment and spiritual fulfillment. Reaching this center provides a sacred pause, allowing you to reflect on the themes represented by each petal: Faith, Surrender, Service, Abundance, Forgiveness, Overcoming Obstacles, and ultimately, Love. The central rose invites you to experience a profound sense of completion and renewal before beginning your return journey and exiting the labyrinth.

Scroll to Top