The Healing Labyrinth
The “Healing Labyrinth” at Brumley is a space for reflection, meditation and restoration. There are now two trails from the parking lot that lead directly past it at the intersection of Stoney Creek and Cemetery Connector trails. If you’re familiar with Brumley North, it’s by the cemetery, about 100 yards into the property. It is currently a work in progress, as we add the finishing touches. Until then, please explore in a respectful and responsible manner.
“People who have walked the labyrinth say it has helped with healing, deepened self knowledge and empowered creativity. Walking slowly can clear the mind, clarify correct action, and be calming in times of life transitions. Often people see their lives as a journey. With all the stresses of today’s world, a contemplative walk can be enjoyable and freeing.”
Eleanor DeVries
About The Labyrinth
The labyrinth is an ancient pattern found in many cultures around the world. Labyrinth designs were found on pottery, tablets and tiles that date as far back as 5,000 years ago. Many patterns are based on spirals and circles mirrored in nature. One feature labyrinths have in common is they have one path that winds in a circuitous way to the center.
The Healing Labyrinth at Brumley North is a gift from Ellie and Bob DeVries and the Kellogg Foundation, based on a classical, seven-circuit labyrinth, patterned after the oldest known form, and dating back more than four thousand years to the Greek Isle of Crete. A person will follow the meandering walkway from the edge to the center, where boulders will provide a quiet place for rest and contemplation and, when ready, walk on the same path.
The Healing Labyrinth at TLC’s Brumley North Preserve provides a new way to engage with nature and is may be a tool for personal, psychological, or spiritual transformation. It is also thought to enhance right-brain activity. Unlike a maze, labyrinths provide only one path to follow in a walking meditation. The labyrinth and one of the paths from the parking lot are wheelchair accessible.
To learn more about labyrinths and the restorative power they have for many, you can explore these resources from Veriditas and Lessons 4 Living.
About The Land
Brumley Nature Preserve and the Healing Labyrinth sit on land that was once home to the Eno, Lumbee, and Shakori people. It was also part of the Cameron Plantation and so was home to hundreds of enslaved people. More recently, it was a farm and the cemetery of the Strayhorn Family is across from the entrance.
- The labyrinth is not a maze. There are not tricks or dead ends. You will enter and exit the same place. It is in full view, which allows a person to be quiet and focus internally.
- There is no right or wrong way to walk the labyrinth, but please be respectful of others.
- As you wind your way toward the center, you may choose to try to let go of the worries of your life or you may choose to focus on a problem you are trying to solve. Either way, the act of walking quiets and empties the mind.
- Allow yourself to find the pace your body wants to go. Your pace may change throughout the walk. You may pass or be passed by others. Please step carefully to the side.
- At the center, you may stop and allow yourself to receive guidance or clarity.
- As you return from the center, you may be refreshed and have clarity as you return to the activities of the world.
