Blue Mountains residents are invited celebrate World Labyrinth Day as part of the official launch of Blue Labyrinth Bush Retreat on Saturday, May 6.
As part of a resurgence in the popularity of walking labyrinths, Woodford couple Donna Mulhearn and Martin Reusch have created a labyrinth retreat on their 9 acre property featuring three different labyrinth designs.
Donna Mulhearn, a trained labyrinth facilitator said while many use labyrinths for personal reflection, on World Labyrinth Day we are invited to “Walk as One at 1” in the afternoon in solidarity with others around the world to promote peace.
“Last year more than 5000 people from 24 countries took part in World Labyrinth Day,” she said.
“We will have a dedication of our new bush labyrinth, a classical design dating back 4000 years, and then walk it for the first time at 1pm as part of World Labyrinth Day.”
Prior to the walk a smoking ceremony will be held at noon as part of the official launch of Blue Labyrinth Bush Retreat, by senior Darug man and artist Chris Tobin.
Located at 30 Park Road, Woodford, visitors are welcome to arrive from 11am, bring a picnic lunch and wander around. Refreshments will be available in the Earth Room. Labyrinths will be available for walking until 3pm.
This is a free event. RSVP to Donna info@bluelabyrinth.com.au or phone 02-4758 7360.
A Labyrinth is a circular design which has one path from the outside to the centre. The ancient design, found in many cultures around the world, is currently undergoing a resurgence in popularity - now appearing in public spaces, parks, hospitals, and schools all over the world.
“It's been said that Labyrinths emerge in the world at times when they are needed,” Ms Mulhearn said. “Today we are seeing great interest in the ancient practice of walking labyrinths as a tool for meditation and personal development.”
She said that labyrinths are often confused with mazes.
“But the labyrinth is the opposite of a maze, which is designed to get you lost and confused with dead ends and choices on which way to go. A labyrinth is a single path; if you just follow the path you will always reach the centre,” she said.
“The path meanders and sometimes you’re close to the centre, other times you’re out on the rim, so there’s the sense you’re on a journey. The walk is meditative; it allows you to calm distractions, to de-stress and move to a place of reflection.”