By Lois Hayes
Recently, I met up with three friends to walk the Tree of Life labyrinth that artist Dennis Bolohan was commissioned to design and install beside the library in Cookstown for Innisfil’s bicentennial celebrations which had been delayed due to COVID restrictions.
As a committed labyrinth walker and certified Labyrinth Facilitator I was curious to experience walking the Tree of Life design. The Chartres 11-circuit design is my chosen favourite, but I managed to keep an open mind as we made our way to the entrance where a sign gave us a brief overview of the labyrinth’s background and purpose.
After setting a group intention we proceeded in silence on the mown path, edged by knee high grasses and wildflowers. Listening to birdsong and distant highway traffic, we put one foot in front of the other on the path which is 1.3 kms from start to finish.
The path, partially based on Celtic knot work, meandered and allowed us time to reflect and find our natural rhythm. It felt natural to spend time with one another sharing our experiences of the walk in the centre where two benches are conveniently situated.
We walked outwards in silence with more sharing and picture-taking after we exited.
Our post-walk discussion included the words, “sacred”, “grounded”, “peaceful”, “healing”, “release” and “connected to nature.”
A friend commented that she wanted everyone she knew to come and walk this labyrinth.
I totally agree, walking the Tree of Life labyrinth is a beautiful opportunity to slow down and get grounded in these stressful times.
