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Walking a Sacred Path: Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a Spiritual Tool
Exploring the historical origins of an ancient spiritual tool, an examination of the ancient Labyrinth offers a walking meditation that transcends the limits of still meditation and provides a tremendous sense of renewal and change.
201 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1995
86 people are currently reading
610 people want to read
About the author
Lauren Artress
16 books24 followersThe Reverend Dr. Lauren Artress is the author of Walking a Sacred Path: Rediscovering the Labyrinth as a Spiritual Practice, and The Sacred Path Companion: A Guide to Walking the Labyrinth to Heal and Transform (Putnam/Riverhead Books, New York). Artress is a spiritual director, Marriage and Family therapist, and Canon Emeritus at Grace Cathedral and Founder of Veriditas a non-profit dedicated to introducing people the healing, meditative powers of the labyrinth.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
May 10, 2008
I walked the labyrinth at Fellowship Farm last year and found it was a thin place between God and me. Scince then i have wanted tolearn more about this ancient thin space. Miss Artress weaves her story, other peoples acounts of meeting God with in the historical presence of the labyrinth. The book seems drift from Jesus in the middle and the end gets to self focused for me but all in all a good book.
October 16, 2010
My brother got this for me for my birthday. I wasn't expecting to enjoy it but I did. I love the fact that she is both a deacon and a psychotherapist. She isn't advocating magic or even a belief in god. She is simply discussing the affects of ritual, sacred geometries, and archetypes. I went and walked a beautiful Labyrinth outside of the Boulder Library the day I finished it. Very peaceful. I'm still working on my mantra.
March 25, 2014
Exactly what I needed to read as I move ever more into my role as a labyrinth facilitator. Artress's words are so heartfelt and genuine, and she makes this book a call to action. A call I am more than happy to heed. I've been walking and reading about labyrinths for more than 15 years, and finally getting around to reading this book -- by the founder of the Labyrinth Movement -- was like discovering this spiritual tool all over again. An absolute must for those who wish to use the labyrinth as a spiritual tool, and even moreso for those who wish to share the labyrinth with others.
November 21, 2011
Dr. Lauren Artress is the one who initiated the building of the labyrinth outside of Grace Cathedral in San Francisco. It started with a woven layrinth that was brought into the cathedral for arranged retreats. At first, the book is a history of how Artress began the journey to discover what the labyrinth is and what it means. It ends with a history of the labyrinth itself (as far as can be historically discovered) and a short history of the Christian church in the early days, up to the 14th Century. Besides learning about the labyrinth itself, the church history sections were very educational. These latter chapters shed light on a religion that, sometimes, does not act like it wants to know itself by examining its historical facts.
I, too, have walked the labyrinth at Grace Cathedral. Artress, in a small book packed with knowledge, helped me to understand the labyrinthian process, one which extends into everyday life.
I, too, have walked the labyrinth at Grace Cathedral. Artress, in a small book packed with knowledge, helped me to understand the labyrinthian process, one which extends into everyday life.
December 20, 2013
This was a life altering book for me. It took me ten years, but I made it to Chartres cathedral to walk the labyrinth and walked the one in Amiens, too. Artress gives a wonderful history of the role of the labyrinth and it's potential to aid all of us in our spiritual journeys. The labyrinth provides an ideal setting to go inward and reflect and requires one to re-enter the world by walking the path back out. An ancient meditative and mindfulness tool, we would all benefit from the presence of more of these in our cultures.
January 30, 2011
I used to be one of three women who led retreats for the Labyrinth. This was our go-to book. The first book we would suggest to retreat clients to read in answer to their questions. Dr. Artress did a lot of research for this book. And the story of how she brought the shape of the Charte Cathedral Labyrinth to the United States and introduced it here was amazing. Good starter book but don't stop here,read more, after you've walked one.
October 17, 2009
On of the most important books on labyrinths as a spiritual tool, written by one of the women who brings this practice to modern awareness.
November 8, 2024
This book could/should have been a wonderful resource for learning about the ancient traditions around and use of labyrinths. However, the author inserted random-feeling paragraphs about the labyrinth’s being feminist and apparently sentient. And being important to the environmental movement. My husband and I both ended up feeling like the author had ruined a book with a great deal of potential. We just wanted to know about labyrinths. Two stars for the interesting parts where she managed to stay focused.
September 21, 2011
This was an amazing book that I have read more than once. I have also walked the Labyrinth at Grace Cathedral and always visit the Cathedral when I am in San Francisco. It is a beautiful place and I discovered it because of this book! I believe I read this for the first time back in about 2002 or so. I jsut know it is well worth reading and it fact I think I will have to pick it up again and read it soon.
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April 7, 2010I'm currently reading this as a part of my daily meditation; I find it quieting. I appreciate its inclusiveness, assuming that the reader approaches from a myriad of traditions and beliefs. It makes me eager to once again walk a labyrinth. However,I am waiting until I have finished the book, as I think the experience will be more meaningful.
April 4, 2013
Since I'm just beginning to learn about labyrinths, this was an essential book. The author was hugely involved in the creation of a labyrinth at a church in San Francisco and continues to be one of the leaders in the labyrinth movement. This is a great starting place, not only for how labyrinths are constructed but for how they might influence our spiritual growth. Strongly recommended.
June 6, 2011
A readable, inspiring introduction into the deeper meanings of the labyrinth and to mysteries of the spirit. I want to go farther into the references she lists at the end. Well documented with respect to history and beginnings of labyrinth use in the United States.
July 25, 2011
I picked this up several years ago in an airport on a lonely business trip. It was my first introduction to walking the labyrinth as a spiritual discipline and method of meditation. There is a labyrinth that I visit once in a while at Christ the King Lutheran Church in Torrance.
August 11, 2012
This book makes me want to walk a labyrinth. It sounds like a powerful experience. And they're everywhere! Who knew?
http://labyrinthlocator.com/
http://labyrinthlocator.com/
September 10, 2016
I've been interested in labyrinths for a long time and I think this might be the second time I've read this book. The author, who brought the labyrinth to Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, is well-grounded in the topic and her recommendations for its use around the world. I smiled that she had the same experience in Chartres, France--arriving so excited to see the famous labyrinth, only to find that it was covered with chairs.
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February 26, 2008Written by the Abbot of the Grace Cathedral in San Francisco, who is a radical woman, (cute as hell, too!)Facinating history of the Labyrinth in general, also about the two Labyrinths that are at the Grace Cathedral.
A very uplifting book about this ancient spiritual practice which is still so relevant and alive.
A very uplifting book about this ancient spiritual practice which is still so relevant and alive.
January 5, 2012
Only people in California could have some of the experiences that are reported in this book. That said, I did enjoy the book and enjoyed reading how to deepen my spiritual experience of a labyrinth walk.
November 4, 2010
A wonderful and thorough introduction to the Labyrinth and spirituality. I would highly recommend this book to anyone interested in labyrinths. It is accessible and non-judgemental.
August 19, 2011
Great resource for using a walking meditation and contemplative prayer during spiritual direction and development and spiritual maturity.
May 23, 2014
The classic work on labyrinths.
October 7, 2015
This book is an incredible journey, but make absolutely sure you have access to a labyrinth to walk!
March 19, 2015
Inspiring and transformative. One of those books I had for a couple of years and happened to pick up at the perfect time to read.
July 24, 2015
Great book that covers the history and spiritual application of labyrinths. Great find at local used book store!
August 3, 2015
i enjoyed the history that the author provided. Also the guidance about how to walk a labyrinth. I felt encouraged to walk the labyrinth in my neighborhood more often.
April 1, 2020
Published in 1995 ... I was pleasantly surprised to find this book still extremely relevant, if not prophetic, with much to say about the spiritual and cultural issues of our time.
May 6, 2024
I stumbled upon this book in doing a little labyrinth research and wow, was it good! It integrated so much of what I’ve been learning and experiencing on the spiritual journey. It’s about so much more than just labyrinths… it articulates the shift we are seeing in western Christianity and is deeply connected to the deconstruction/reconstruction journey.
December 29, 2021
Awesome read IF you are looking for more everyday sacred moments during your journey.
July 11, 2016
In this book, Dr. Lauren Artress explains how she came to know and became involved in the ancient spiritual tool of Labyrinth. She gives a beautiful narration of its relevance from the angle of meditation. Not without reason, she believes in divine guidance that has led her to this spiritual task of spreading the message of Labyrinth. She observes, "All of the larger-than-life questions about our presence here on earth and what gifts we have to offer are spiritual questions. To seek answers to these questions is to seek a sacred path. As we find our meaning and purpose we also realize that some invisible form of guidance has been leading us. We may not be able to recognize this in the moment, but in looking back over our lives we see the footprints of an invisible being that has guided us, challenged us, and carried us through times of crisis."
The author has acknowledged the influence of the spiritual waves of the Eastern world, while she says, "Characteristically, the West has emphasized action in the world with little recognition of contemplation. The East has done the opposite, placing greater value on meditative spirituality. But as Eastern teachings become transplanted in Western soil, we are beginning to appreciate the worth of turning inward. Ram Dass, the Hindu spiritual teacher, talks about meditation as the search for a spaciousness within. Both Eastern and Western traditions can guide us to this place where our soul resides and guides us as we journey through life. The integration of contemplative and active approaches is strengthening the spiritual revolution that has begun in the West."
The learned author has also traced the association of Labyrinth with the Buddhist practices of walking meditation. Had she been more familiar with the ancient Hindu traditions, she could have easily gone to the original Vedic sources of even those Buddhist practices. The Vedic practice of pradakshina is still a very common and powerful spiritual tool for the Hindus. More details could be known from this source: http://www.indiadivine.org/why-do-we-...
Just like there are several types of flowing meditation in which the mind is kept busy, we may also identify several types of moving meditation in which the body is also kept busy. So far as the divine being is held as the central force, governing our actions and guiding us, walking meditations are also valuable spiritual tools.
The services of Dr. Lauren Artress in having highlighted the relevance and usefulness of Labyrinth deserve any praise.
The author has acknowledged the influence of the spiritual waves of the Eastern world, while she says, "Characteristically, the West has emphasized action in the world with little recognition of contemplation. The East has done the opposite, placing greater value on meditative spirituality. But as Eastern teachings become transplanted in Western soil, we are beginning to appreciate the worth of turning inward. Ram Dass, the Hindu spiritual teacher, talks about meditation as the search for a spaciousness within. Both Eastern and Western traditions can guide us to this place where our soul resides and guides us as we journey through life. The integration of contemplative and active approaches is strengthening the spiritual revolution that has begun in the West."
The learned author has also traced the association of Labyrinth with the Buddhist practices of walking meditation. Had she been more familiar with the ancient Hindu traditions, she could have easily gone to the original Vedic sources of even those Buddhist practices. The Vedic practice of pradakshina is still a very common and powerful spiritual tool for the Hindus. More details could be known from this source: http://www.indiadivine.org/why-do-we-...
Just like there are several types of flowing meditation in which the mind is kept busy, we may also identify several types of moving meditation in which the body is also kept busy. So far as the divine being is held as the central force, governing our actions and guiding us, walking meditations are also valuable spiritual tools.
The services of Dr. Lauren Artress in having highlighted the relevance and usefulness of Labyrinth deserve any praise.
May 8, 2019
I have experienced walking a prayer labyrinth on two occasions. I was curious to learn more about labyrinths and so gave this book a read. It is interesting, and provides a nice mix of the authors writing as well as some first-hand experience accounts of others who have walked labyrinths. In particular, I enjoyed learning more about the historical context of the labyrinth, as well as how it is being rediscovered in modern culture.
There are aspects of the book with which I am in agreement. For example, although I come to a labyrinth as a tool for engaging in the Christian faith, I recognize that it can be used by individuals of other faiths, or even those who proclaim no particular faith. I believe it is, as the author says, "a tool to guide healing, deepen self-knowledge, and empower creativity" (pg. 20). The labyrinth is a means by which we can become more aware of and open to our spiritual nature and discover sacredness. It helps us connect with the mystical, for I believe that we are created as mystical beings as well as of flesh and blood. That being said, because of my association with the Christian faith, there are aspects of the book with which I did not agree. In particular, the author's repeated descriptions of discovering or connecting with the 'Divine within' communicates to my mind too much a concept of ubiquitous spirituality and, for those seeking a specifically Christian faith experience, an improper way of understanding. Again, the author is clear that she intends this resource to be of meaning and help for all, not only Christians. I would only recommend that those seeking to use the labyrinth as a sacred tool within the context of Christian faith that he or she remember, as with any spiritual practices, we are called to keep our focus on Christ.
While the labyrinth has been a tool of meaningful spiritual experience for me, and I think those who are open to the idea should make themselves available to it as a spiritual practice, it may not have the same impact for everyone. I agree that something about a labyrinth, with its unique geometry and process of walking, allows us to connect with our faith understanding in ways we might not otherwise be able to do so. Yet, I think this practice is apt to be more meaningful for some than others, depending on one's 'spiritual temperament'. (For any interested in reading about various ways that one can connect with God, I heartily recommend "Sacred Pathways: Discover Your Soul's Path to God" by Gary Thomas.)
There are aspects of the book with which I am in agreement. For example, although I come to a labyrinth as a tool for engaging in the Christian faith, I recognize that it can be used by individuals of other faiths, or even those who proclaim no particular faith. I believe it is, as the author says, "a tool to guide healing, deepen self-knowledge, and empower creativity" (pg. 20). The labyrinth is a means by which we can become more aware of and open to our spiritual nature and discover sacredness. It helps us connect with the mystical, for I believe that we are created as mystical beings as well as of flesh and blood. That being said, because of my association with the Christian faith, there are aspects of the book with which I did not agree. In particular, the author's repeated descriptions of discovering or connecting with the 'Divine within' communicates to my mind too much a concept of ubiquitous spirituality and, for those seeking a specifically Christian faith experience, an improper way of understanding. Again, the author is clear that she intends this resource to be of meaning and help for all, not only Christians. I would only recommend that those seeking to use the labyrinth as a sacred tool within the context of Christian faith that he or she remember, as with any spiritual practices, we are called to keep our focus on Christ.
While the labyrinth has been a tool of meaningful spiritual experience for me, and I think those who are open to the idea should make themselves available to it as a spiritual practice, it may not have the same impact for everyone. I agree that something about a labyrinth, with its unique geometry and process of walking, allows us to connect with our faith understanding in ways we might not otherwise be able to do so. Yet, I think this practice is apt to be more meaningful for some than others, depending on one's 'spiritual temperament'. (For any interested in reading about various ways that one can connect with God, I heartily recommend "Sacred Pathways: Discover Your Soul's Path to God" by Gary Thomas.)
March 19, 2017
The book educates on labyrinth history and prevalence across the globe. She theorizes what they were used for in ancient religious practices. The focus, however, is how we can access the empowering properties of this archetypal tool to connect our individual soul with the collective unconscious. There is a section on resources to learn more in the back. I very much enjoyed reading this relatively thin, but richly contented volume. Dr. Artress is not only a religiously trained member of Grace Cathedral in SanFrancisco, she practiced psychotherapy for several years. This meld of spiritual and psychological perspectives is helpful in illustrating the potent aspects of the labyrinth. I went out to the net, to labyrinthlocator.com and was amazed how many of them are out there! I found a nearby one in the back yard of a church and was greeted warmly (the website said this one is always open) by the secretary. The experience of walking the labyrinth was memorable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews