The Labyrinth Project Continues to Support Campus Wellness

Members of the Wellesley College community looking for respite during the hot summer days would do well to wander through the canvas labyrinth situated under the stained glass of Houghton Chapel. The Labyrinth Project is generously funded by Laura Becker-Lewke ’77, who gifted the college the large canvas labyrinth in 2012 to introduce spiritual reflection though contemplative practice to the campus.

From July 24 to August 1, the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life hosted an open labyrinth walk every day from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. In reference to the project, dean of the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life Tiffany Steinwert explained, “The labyrinth offers time and space for meditation and reflection. Walking the path provides an opportunity to slow down, to focus, and to reflect on that which matters most.” Contrary to a maze designed to confuse the walker, a labyrinth is a clear, highly structured path that focuses and quiets the mind, while opening the heart.

The indoor canvas labyrinth and the outdoor labyrinth behind Paramecium Pond are part of the many ways in which the Office of Religious and Spiritual Life fosters wellness and well-being on campus. “Laura Becker-Lewke understood the power of these types of practices and her gift has enabled Wellesley College to introduce these life-long habits for wholeness and health to students while they are in college,” Steinwert said.

Though the chairs will be put back into place after August 1, the labyrinth will still be out in the chapel. Members of the community are encouraged to take a break from the stress of daily life and explore the winding paths, discovering, perhaps, a new tool for holistic well-being.