Labyrinths for the Spirit

by Jim Buchanan

“By moving in a focused and directed way through the labyrinth, we begin to relax, and our sixth sense becomes heightened.” That’s how the author, a renowned labyrinth-maker and “land artist,” describes the effect of walking the traditional and contemporary labyrinths explored here. Examples range from classic Greek and medieval designs to patterns used in Native American basketry, as well as the author’s distinctive creations, which push the boundaries of the form. Connecting the spiritual aspects of walking the labyrinth to the creative act of construction, the guide offers illustrated instructions for making more than 20 different labyrinths.

144 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2006

Reviews

[Karen Szklany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jim Buchanan's passion and experience around labyrinths glows through the pages of his book. He has built a plethora of labyrinths and he shares many details so that the reader to make a DIY labyrinth at or close to home.

His book is rich with resources around where to travel to walk labyrinths, labyrinth history, modern societies around labyrinth appreciation, and where to train to be a labyrinth walk leader. The pages are full of vibrant pictures and detailed illustrations so that the reader has a chance to draw his/her own labyrinth on paper to follow with a finger when the weather outside your door does not permit walking a labyrinth with your feet, or traveling to a full-scale inside labyrinth.

I have been researching labyrinths as part of my process for planning a labyrinth walk that I will give in the Spring with our UU church's minister, and I have found this book very useful to my planning!

[John Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very well thought out and presented book on labyrinths. Insights into the history, use, design and making of labyrinths. Easy to read and enjoyable. Through story and lecture he expands on the subject in a way that leads you on. This is clearly someone deep into the culture of the labyrinth. The photos and illustrations are, for the most part, interesting and well done.
Note: there is a serious error on page 80, in the diagram of how to draw a Chartres Labyrinth. The main turnings on the left side are offset one path to the right. A proper diagram is presented on page 31, so this is a minor problem, though puzzling.
Despite this error, I strongly recommend the book to anyone interested in the subject.

[Kendra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I've been fascinated by labyrinths for about 6 years now. This book has a basic overview, plus a fair amount of diagrams to make your own, from small clay ones, to photoshopped ones, to ground covering ones. Interesting to read through, but one you can pop in and out of.

[Lyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent exploration of the historical design context and layered meanings associated with Labyrinths and Knot gardens. Practical exploration of real built and ephemeral labyrinths and at various scales

[Leslee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautifully illustrated, project oriented. I'm trying to figure out how to add a labyrinth to my yard.

[Lorette · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great overall book. Many instructions to make various kinds of Labyrinths including lighted, in sand, with brick, with many kinds of markings.