When it comes to finding a beautiful place for introspection, meditation and emotional healing, there is none quite so perfectly situated as the Kayenta labyrinth.
Known as the Kayenta Desert Rose Labyrinth, this desert gem is located in the unparalleled beauty of southern Utah. If you’ve never tried this sort of meditation, the Kayenta labyrinth is one to try.
What is Kayenta labyrinth?
While some may consider a labyrinth to simply be a maze, it is much more. It might brings to mind a certain David Bowie movie from the 1980s which was called, “Labyrinth.” This is also incorrect.
However, the merit and benefit of the Kayenta labyrinth, and labyrinths in general go far beyond what David Bowie and his costars reveal in the film.
Labyrinth history and purpose
Labyrinths are often mistaken for a maze, however, unlike a maze, a labyrinth is an ancient symbol that has long been used as a meditation and prayer tool. According to the University of New Hampshire web site, a maze is designed to confuse the user. It typically represents a problem to be solved. Like a riddle for the left-brain to sort out in a logical, sequential way. However, a labyrinth is meant to be “one circuitous path to the center and out again.” There are no dead ends. There is no need to turn about and retrace your steps. At least not until you have reached the center. Then the user turns to exit the same way they came in.
Such is the case with the Kayenta labyrinth, and many others.
Using the Kayenta labyrinth
Once again drawing on ancient practices and beliefs, the method for entering and enjoying a Kayenta labyrinth starts with how you approach the field. Ultimately there is no right or wrong way to walk the path. But, as the New Hampshire University web site instructs, it is a good idea to pause at the entrance of the labyrinth. Take a deep breath. Reflect. Make a prayer, or mentally (or audibly) determine the purpose for the walk you are about to take. Then, just let go.
Walking a single line path offers the user a chance to quiet the mind, remove distraction and resolve inner discomfort. The walk through Kayenta labyrinth and others can represent a spiritual journey. Or it can simply be a way to get you back on track.
Locating a labyrinth
Often found in church courtyards, or within the church itself, labyrinths are located around the world. Other labyrinths are available at spa resorts, medical facilities, gardens and more. There is a labyrinth located at Green Valley Spa in St. George, Utah. But for those looking for an even more rich desert landscape, the Kayenta labyrinth, it is located near Coyote Gulch Art Village in Kayenta.
The Kayenta labyrinth location takes advantage of all that is beautiful about desert living. Situated with 360-degree views of the area’s signature red mountains, the Kayenta labyrinth offers inner peace, as well as peace in the surrounding area. Since Kayenta is a smaller community outside Ivins and St. George, Utah, it is quiet. Peaceful. With few things to detract from the Kayenta labyrinth experience.
As if that weren’t enough, walking to the Kayenta labyrinth is a beautiful journey in itself.
Kayenta labyrinth sculpture garden
A beautiful sculpture garden marks the pathway to the start of the Kayenta labyrinth. Just a few of the pieces include Desert Guardian by Tom Jackson and Zen of Life, also by Tom Jackson. Other artists featured include Lyman Whitaker, Cheryl Collins, Matt Clark and Gary Collins. It’s an opportunity to appreciate such artwork. This proves to be an excellent preparation for the mind as you ready yourself for the meditation and healing in the Kayenta labyrinth.
Located in the center of what appears to be relatively undisturbed desert life, the Kayenta labyrinth offers a variety of flora and fauna surrounding the red rock-lined path. If you’re lucky, you might spy a rabbit, a bird or other desert life in the distance as you prepare to begin your journey.
Inside the Kayenta labyrinth
Once you enter, each person’s mind is likely to focus on different things. Some may have their worries washed from their mind as they focus on putting one foot in front of the other. Other people may see a variety of metaphors for life nestled in the journey they are taking. Still others have commented that they found an immense sense of peace during and after completing the labyrinth.
Some prefer to go to the Kayenta labyrinth as part of a group. Perhaps for some sort of event. For example the Centers for Spiritual Living Southern Nevada. This group experienced the Kayenta labyrinth as part of a St. George retreat this summer.
You may visit the labyrinth alone. Others choose to come with one other friend. One such visitor described the experience in a Facebook post in 2016. She says, “It was a truly amazing experience… I went at dusk on a wonderfully delightful evening… If you are ever in Kayenta be sure to stop here. It is magical.”
An overview of Kayenta labyrinth
According to the Kayenta Home Owners Association web site, the Desert Rose Labyrinth is a Eleven Circuit Labyrinth. This means you enter the labyrinth through the mouth and walk the path to the center. The center marks the half way point.
Dedicated in fall of 2004, the Desert Rose Labyrinth was the result of a “the vision and labor of many community members from Kayenta.”
Visitors are welcome; but when participating in the Kayenta labyrinth, be certain to observe general rules of respect and reverence.
You can find the Kayenta Labyrinth at 733 Cactus Gulch Ct., Ivins, Utah.
If you would love to live in an area promoting this kind of beauty, meditation and peace, check out these great home listings here.