In Assocation with the Smithsonian Institution
A public sculpture park in Solomons, Maryland
What is a Labyrinth?
Labyrinths are ancient human symbols known to go back at least 3500 years and probably much older. They appeared on most inhabited continents in prehistory, with examples known from North and South America, Africa, Asia and across Europe, from the Mediterranean to Scandinavia. A labyrinth is not a maze, but rather a walking meditation devise with a single winding path from the edge to the center. Although an enigmatic design, it is thought that the spiral design is based on spirals found in nature. Many people report feeling rejuvenated walking a labyrinth and there have been many reports of physical, emotional, and spiritual healing following a walk. Children love the labyrinth and seem to have a natural affinity for walking its circuitous path. Modern labyrinths are found in hospitals, churches, health care facilities, spas, retreat centers, schools and universities, public parks, gardens, prisons, and even businesses. From Central Park to the U.S. Capitol to Zurich, they are varied in their appearance as well as setting.
Healthful Qualities of Walking a Labyrinth
Walking a labyrinth can induce or enhance a contemplative or meditative state of mind. It is a tool that can clear the mind, calm anxieties, guide healing, deepen self-knowledge, enhance creativity, allow for reconciliation, and lead to personal and spiritual growth. For many walkers, the labyrinth becomes a metaphor for the journey of life; although full of twists and turns, each of us is on a single path through his or her life, and yet each person’s journey is a separate and distinct qualitative experience.
Aesthetic & Economic Impact of a Labyrinth in the Garden
A work of art itself, the installation of a labyrinth at the Garden would be a lovely addition to the aesthetics of the site and would be a powerful resource for residents of all ages. Individuals and groups could make use of the labyrinth for stress reduction activities. For younger visitors, labyrinths can be a wonderfully playful activity. The labyrinth would undoubtedly be a boon to the tourism economy of Southern Maryland. Like visitors to coastal lighthouses, tourists will come to the Garden to see and experience the labyrinth, spending their dollars while in Southern Maryland and visiting other attractions.
The Labyrinth Committee
The Labyrinth Committee is: Helen Bauer, Chair, Mary Ellen Steveling, Debra Hughes, Fundraising, Rebecca Ridgell, Certified Labyrinth Facilitator, Barbara Allen, Barbara Bershon, Rick Clement, Michelle Goodwin, Stacey Hann Ruff, Anne Harrison, Brenda Hollweger, Mimi LaCouture Little, Debbie Mulholland, and Win Peterman.
Members of Annmarie Garden’s Labyrinth Committee hail from all walks of life, including small business owners, artists, therapists, teachers, and non-profit professionals. If you would like to become involved in this effort, please call 410.326.4640.