Bracebridge Labyrinth
by Pam Rimmer
Here is where I am going to post pictures and document the process of building the Bracebridge Labyrinth.
In 2020 Nancy Knox and myself put together a proposal to have a Labyrinth built in Annie Williams Park. Over the years there have been many speaking engagements with fundraising and finding the perfect location in Annie Williams Park and connecting with the master landscaper Matt Planeta. In 2024 we have the Town of Bracebridge’s approval, raised the funds required and are in the process of having the Labyrinth built in Annie Williams Park.
October 2024
The excavation is done and the pad is in. Today Matt and Jeff start laying the blocks.
A Big Thank You to our Donors:
Bob Jacob, Bracebridge Rotary, Muskoka Lakes Rotary, Town of Bracebridge and Rimmers
September 10, 2024
Today I spoke at Bracebridge Muskoka Lakes Rotary updating them on the building Bracebridge Labyrinth.
Here is a summary of the information to date that I passed along.
Our Landscaper Contractor is Matthew Planeta @ Planeta Landscaping. Matt specializes in masonery work and landscaping. He is also a volunteer firefighter and resident of Bracebridge.
The Town of Bracebridge will be doing the excavation and backfilling with screening in preparation of the build at the beginning of October 2024.
Matt and my husband (Matt’s volunteer worker) will start the building the Labyrinth shortly there after. Matt is incharge of the creative and masonery work.
After the bricking is done the Town will come in to backfill with soil and grass seed. The labyrinth will then be closed for the winter allowing it to settle and then opening in the spring.
There will be a grand opening and celebration in the spring 2025.
Thank you to the generous donations from:
Bob Jacob
Bracebridge Muskoka Lakes Rotary
Muskoka Rotary
Town of Bracebridge
Rimmer Family
What is a Labyrinth?
A labyrinth is a pattern, usually in the form of a large circle, that has one path, beginning at the outer edge and leading into the center. Once you reach the centre it is a time to reflect and or receive and then reverse your steps following the same path out again. Labyrinths were found in medieval churches and cathedrals flat to the floor. Labyrinths date back 4000 years or to the 5th Century.
Labyrinths are often confused with a Maze.
A maze is designed to make you lose your way. It is a large puzzle also meant to confuse you. Mazes are only 500 years old. In Pagan times some labyrinths were hidden by a maze so the Labyrinths weren’t destroyed.
The Difference between a Labyrinth and a Maze
A maze is designed to make you lose your way and a Labyrinth is designed to help you find your way.
Types of Labyrinths
There are two main types of Labyrinths. The more formal is the Chartres Labyrinth found in Chartres Cathedral in France. The other is the Classic Labyrinth, a 7 circuit which is the most suitable for Muskoka.
How to Walk a Labyrinth
There is no right or wrong way to walk a Labyrinth. Unlike life’s demands, it is entirely up to you how you choose to walk. Your interior world can become clear to you. If you are walking in a group - start off in intervals and respect other walkers. You may choose to walk with or without shoes.
What are the Benefits of Walking a Labyrinth
Your walk is the experience or you get to experience your walk. Often quiets your mind. Allows for self reflection and meditation.
It is a Meditative Walk
Releasing/Remembering
Receiving
Returning/Resolving/Rejuvenation
The walk often enlivening the body and finding peace on completion.
Children Love the Labyrinth
The game of hopscotch, is said to be created on the Chartres Labyrinth. Children learn to respect and show consideration for the other walkers.
