In this full-colour, beautifully illustrated book, Gailand MacQueen uses myth, history, and personal experience to explore the spiritual meanings of mazes and labyrinths. Convinced that labyrinths and mazes have much to teach us, Gailand MacQueen invites readers on a sometimes mystical, sometimes mysterious, journey of spiritual discovery.

An exploration of mazes and labyrinths with guidance for their use in meditation.

Mazes and Labyrinths is a look into the origin and mystery of mazes. From ancient stone carvings, Minoan palaces to today's hedge-maze, Matthews chronicles the history of the maze. With over 140 illustrations.

"By moving in a focused and directed way through the labyrinth, we begin to relax, and our sixth sense becomes heightened." That's how the author, a renowned labyrinth-maker and "land artist," describes the effect of walking the traditional and contemporary labyrinths explored here. Examples range from classic Greek and medieval designs to patterns used in Native American basketry, as well as the author's distinctive creations, which push the boundaries of the form. Connecting the spiritual aspects of walking the labyrinth to the creative act of construction, the guide offers illustrated instructions for making more than 20 different labyrinths.

"Whoever you are, walking the labyrinth has something to offer. If a project is challenging you, walking can get your creative juices flowing. When struggling with grief or anger, or a physical challenge or illness, walking the labyrinth can point the way to healing and wholeness. If you're looking for a way to meditate or pray that engages your body as well as your soul, the labyrinth provides such a path. When you just want reflective time away from a busy life, the labyrinth can offer you time out. The labyrinth holds up a mirror, reflecting back to us not only the light of our finest selves, but also whatever restrains us from shining forth." --From the Introduction Join Melissa Gayle West and thousands of others who are turning to labyrinth walking for quiet meditation and spiritual healing. Exploring the Labyrinth blends the timeless wisdom and meaning derived from labyrinths along with practical advice, divided among three sections: What is a labyrinth and why does it have such astonishing contemporary appeal? You'll be introduced to walking and working with this ancient archetype. Learn to construct a temporary or permanent, indoor or outdoor labyrinth from rocks, rope, canvas, and a wide variety of other materials. Discover specific ways to use the labyrinth for rituals, meaningful celebrations, spiritual growth, healing work, creativity enhancement, and goal setting. With practical advice, spiritual wisdom, and helpful resources, Exploring the Labyrinth is the complete guide to this ancient, transformative tool.

Discover the use of the labyrinth as a spiritual tool -- used throughout the centuries in many different cultures -- to find meditation, focus, peace, and wholeness. Includes a complete guide to crafting personal labyrinths for spiritual growth, as well as a dictionary of essential symbols and patterns.