Labyrinths have a history that reaches back into the mists of time. They have been built by various cultures around the globe and seem to represent a universal pattern in human conciousness, regardless of the culture in which they were used. Scandinavia, Crete, America, Sumeria, the British Isles, Italy, India, France, Egypt, and Iceland are a few of the places in which they have been found. They are still used in the sacred ceremonies of the Hopi and Papago tribes in Arizona, as well as by a growing number of people on all continents in this time of a changing millenium. Although they may sound a bit exotic we can find them here in Vermont, very close by: East Hardwick has at least one and there is a portable labyrinth in Greensboro and another in Derby Line. The Dowsers have built several evry year at their convention and have one at their headquarters in Danville. More and more are being built as people become more familiar with them and their uses and benefits

There is a great deal of research being carried on throughout the world in the area of labyrinths and their use in healing, especially those illness that are turned on by certain genes at a particular time in a persons life and those that have a component of place. Dr. Wayne London, who has been connected with Dartmouth College and has devoted a great deal of time in reseach and written several booklets on his discoveries. Walking the labyrinths on a regular basis seems to alliviate some of the symptoms of certain diseases. Aura photography has been done on people after walking the labyrinth and the differences were quite notable. Labyrinths often have a particular "specialty" in healing and/or alleviating symptoms. That is why it is important to build several in an area so that different conditions can be addressed and each persons' needs met. Labyrinths are also used as an aid in the spiritual journey, by both native peoples and non-natives as well. At Chartres Cathedral during the times of the Crusades, people who could not journey to the Holy Land would walk, on feet or often on knees, around the 12 circuit labyrinth there as a way of experiencing the journey to the Holy Land in a spiritual way. Many use the labyrinth as a metaphor for a journey to the Center, to God or Great Spirit. Others use it as a pathway to a closer connection with the Earth Mother, and all her creatures and energies. Others use as a way to simply say to the Creator, Thank You!