Labyrinths

Definition

• a winding spiral path leading to a central area

Labyrinths compared with mazes

• Mazes are a type of 31.
  • 32. is needed to navigate through a maze
  • the word ‘maze’ is derived from a word meaning a feeling of 33.

• Labyrinths represent a journey through life
  • they have frequently been used in 34. and prayer

Early examples of the labyrinth spiral

• Ancient carvings on 35. have been found across many cultures
• The Pima, a native American tribe, wove the symbol on baskets
• Ancient Greeks used the symbol on 36.

Walking labyrinths

• The largest surviving example of a turf labyrinth once had a big 37. at its centre

Labyrinths nowadays

• Believed to have a beneficial impact on mental and physical health, e.g. walking a maze can reduce a person’s 38. rate
• Used in medical and health and fitness settings and also prisons
• Popular with patients, visitors and staff in hospitals
  • patients who can’t walk can use ‘finger labyrinths’ made from 39.
  • research has shown that Alzheimer’s sufferers experience less 40.