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Other common name(s): Labyrinths
Scientific/medical name(s): None
Description
Available evidence does not suggest that labyrinth walking can be used to prevent or treat cancer or other serious diseases. However, it may be helpful as a complementary method to decrease stress and create a state of relaxation.
Overview
Available evidence does not suggest that labyrinth walking can be used to prevent or treat cancer or other serious diseases. However, it may be helpful as a complementary method to decrease stress and create a state of relaxation.
How is it promoted for use?
Labyrinth walking is generally used as a form of meditation. In fact, it is described by many as walking meditation. People walk through labyrinths to reach any number of goals, such as inner peace, heightened spirituality, personal insight, prayer, relaxation, stress relief, or just "letting go"
(see Meditation). The labyrinth journey (whether walked or traced with the fingers) may represent pilgrimage, the seeking of inner wisdom, and other mysteries.
What does it involve?
Labyrinth walkers follow the labyrinth path from a specified beginning to a well-defined central area and back through the same path to the exit. They might pray, reflect on life, consider a particular problem, let the mind wander, or seek spiritual guidance and unity as they move along the curving trail. Their aim is not to reach the finish, but to become immersed in all aspects of the walk, and potentially to experience some degree of personal transformation.
Lap or finger labyrinths are generally used for the same purposes. The person can sit down with the portable labyrinth in front of him or her. The eyes may be open or closed as the grooved path is followed with the finger.
What is the history behind it?
Labyrinths may date back 4,000 years, though their origins are shrouded in mystery. During the middle ages, labyrinths were built in a number of large European churches so worshippers could make a symbolic "pilgrimage" to the Holy Land. The labyrinth on the floor of the famous Chartres cathedral in France was built in the year 1220.
Many religious traditions incorporate labyrinths. In Judaism, the Tree of Life, called the Kaballah, takes the form of an elongated labyrinth. The Hopi medicine wheel is another example of a labyrinth. Labyrinths are being rediscovered and can now be found not only in places of worship, but also in retreat centers, hospitals, prisons, parks, airports and community centers. There are around 2,000 permanent labyrinths in the United States alone. Temporary and semi-permanent labyrinths may be laid out with stone, tape, fabric, sticks, chalk, plants, and many other materials.
One of the most commonly reproduced labyrinth designs is the 11-circuit labyrinth, which is named for the 11 circles that must be walked to reach the center. This is the design of the Medieval Labyrinth at Chartres cathedral. Other design types include Classical, Roman, and Contemporary.
What is the evidence?
Available scientific evidence does not suggest that labyrinth walking can be used to treat cancer or any other disease. However, many health care practitioners consider any activity that promotes relaxation and relieves stress beneficial to overall health.
Are there any possible problems or complications?
Labyrinth walking and finger labyrinths are generally considered safe when used along with medical treatment. Relying on this type of treatment alone, and avoiding or delaying conventional medical care for cancer, may have serious health consequences.
Additional Resources
More Information from Your American Cancer Society
The following information on complementary and alternative therapies may also be helpful to you. These materials may be ordered from our toll-free number (1-800-ACS-2345).
References
Artress L. Excerpts from The Sand Labyrinth. Available online at http://www.gracecathedral.org. http://www.gracecathedral.org/labyrinth/index.shtml. Accessed 3/22/07.
Condren D. Labyrinth walking explores spiritual path to inner peace. The Buffalo News. July 11, 1999:1C.
Knight K. The Peaceful Path. San Francisco Chronicle. 2/28/03. Available online at www.sfgate.com. Accessed 3/22/07.
Saward J. An Introduction to Labyrinth Typology. Available online at http://wwll.veriditas.labyrinthsociety.org/glossary_typology.html.
Spilner, M. Treading ancient paths. Prevention. 1997;49:143.
Note: This information may not cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is familiar with your medical situation.
Revised: 03/26/2007
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