Winter Solstice Sunset Labyrinth Walk with Gong Meditation and Drum Jam! Bring your own percussion instrument to call the Sun back!

WHERE: Richland College Campus Labyrinth which is based on the classic pattern of the Chartres labyrinth, found in the thirteenth century French cathedral. This outdoor labyrinth combines stones and plants to outline the gravel path. The labyrinth is located next to Fannin Hall and parking lot V ( A few blocks east of Abrams off Walnut. Take the Richland East Drive and turn right into the first parking lot.)

PROGRAM: This will be an informal yet intentional meditation. We will begin with a brief invocation and greeting and then dedicate time for walking and contemplation accompanied by the sound of medicine gongs and drums. We will complete our gathering with a brief closing circle. Come for the full two hours or just to walk your journey as you need to.

WHY: The labyrinth is a walking meditation, a path of prayer and an archetypal blueprint where psyche meets Spirit. It has only one path that leads from the outer edge in a circuitous way to the center.There are no tricks to it and no dead ends. Unlike a maze where you lose your way, the labyrinth is a spiritual tool that can help you find your way.

Labyrinths are currently being used world-wide as a way to quiet the mind, recover a balance in life, and encourage meditation, insight, self-reflection, stress reduction, and to discover innovation and celebration. They are open to all people as a non-denominational, cross-cultural blueprint for well-being. The practice of labyrinth walking integrates the body with the mind and the mind with the spirit. They can be found in medical centers, parks, churches, schools, prisons, memorial parks, spas, cathedrals and retreat centers as well as in people's backyards.

WHAT TO BRING: Drum or percussion instrument(s). Hot drinks. Cushion or yoga mat or blanket if you want to be on the side and relax during the sound meditation. Dress warmly!