The Labyrinth: An Innovative Therapeutic Tool for Problem Solving or Achieving Mental Focus

Abstract

The labyrinth is an ancient symbol that works well as a therapeutic tool to encourage mental focus through meditation or prayer, which can be instrumental in releasing mental and physical tension. Many recognize the labyrinth as a metaphor for the path we walk through life and as an appropriate symbol that creates sacred space for enhancing psychological and spiritual growth. As a therapeutic tool, the labyrinth provides willing clients an opportunity to examine problems, questions, or issues from various perspectives while also affording time and space for personal reflection before making a decision. The inward labyrinth journey becomes a time for examining a question, whereas the return journey allows time for examining a possible solution, any of which the client might explore further in therapy while working toward implementation of a satisfactory solution. Because it is both kinesthetic and introspective, the labyrinth walk functions as a complete mind-body integrative activity.