Reflecting on a Day of Mindfulness and Anti-Racism: Surrey World Labyrinth Day

Introduction:

On May 3, 2025, the City of Surrey came together to celebrate Surrey World Labyrinth Day: Walk as One for Peace. As a mindfulness instructor and wellness educator, I had the privilege of participating in this transformative event, which not only nurtured our minds and spirits but also deepened our understanding of anti-racism and social justice. This unique gathering brought together healing and advocacy, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable future.

Event Highlights:

On a cool sunny Saturday afternoon, embraced by a grove of red maple trees and nearby the old growth of the fragrant blue Wisterias in full bloom, women gathered on the large 42-foot diameter labyrinth at Surrey’s Fleetwood Park to walk for peace—on Surrey World Labyrinth Day. Labyrinth walks have been celebrated worldwide for their ability to bring people together in a shared journey of reflection and peace. This event was no different, as it offered a unique opportunity for connection and introspection.

Since I did not know all the women and they did not know each other, I facilitated a brief round-robin self-introduction, asking each for their name, whether they had walked a labyrinth previously, and what they expected to gain from this labyrinth walk. After clarifying the guidelines for walking the labyrinth in a community of walkers, the women, each pleasant and eager, followed one another, entered the path for mindfulness and walking meditation. At the end of the walk, we did a round-robin debrief. Many felt calm, still, and ready to entertain their reflections. One woman shared that she felt relieved from the grief experienced from the recent Lapu-Lapu horrific incident. The mention of the Lapu-Lapu incident highlights the labyrinth’s ability to provide solace during times of personal and communal tragedy. Another woman expressed that she felt she had made the right decision on her recent retirement. Another participant claimed she would like the City of Delta to build a labyrinth like this in her city. This gathering exemplifies how labyrinth walks can facilitate personal reflection and community, providing a shared space for individuals to connect with themselves and others.

Significance of the Proclamation:

The proclamation by Mayor Brenda Locke declared May 3, 2025, as “Surrey World Labyrinth Day.” This recognition highlighted Surrey’s commitment to peace, respect, and pluralism, fundamental characteristics of the community. The proclamation acknowledged the contributions of all people, cultures, philosophies, and religions, and emphasized the importance of mindfulness and peaceful energy.

The Mayor’s Proclamation is posted on the City of Surrey’s website.

World-Labyrinth-Day-Walk-as-one-for-Peace-May-3-2025

Impact of the Event:

Surrey World Labyrinth Day was not just a day of activities; it was a powerful journey of self-discovery and social awareness. By participating in this event, attendees invested in their personal growth and contributed to the broader movement for social justice. The event fostered connections among like-minded individuals committed to creating positive change, exploring the intersections of mindfulness and anti-racism.

About the Author:

My name is Diana Ng, also known as the Labyrinth Lady. As someone deeply passionate about the transformative power of labyrinth walks, I have dedicated my career to promoting this ancient practice. I led the project with the City of Surrey to build the first public park labyrinth in Fleetwood Park, Surrey, marking the first labyrinth in Metro Vancouver. In collaboration with the Surrey Mayor, I successfully proclaimed Surrey World Labyrinth Day: Walk for Peace as One, an event I facilitate annually. I have also authored and published a book on mindfulness and walking meditation in labyrinths. As a mindfulness educator, retired nurse, and anti-racism advocate, I am dedicated to promoting practices that enhance well-being and foster inclusivity. My journey in these fields has allowed me to explore various practices that promote well-being and spiritual growth. Today, I am excited to share with you the profound health and spiritual benefits of labyrinth walks.

The Health and Spiritual Benefits of Labyrinth Walks:

Labyrinth walks are an ancient practice that has been used for centuries as a tool for meditation, reflection, and spiritual growth. Unlike a maze, a labyrinth has a single, non-branching path that leads to the center and back out again. This simplicity allows the walker to focus inwardly, promoting a meditative state that can lead to numerous health benefits.

From a physical health perspective, walking a labyrinth can reduce stress and anxiety. The rhythmic and purposeful movement helps to calm the nervous system, lower blood pressure, and improve overall heart health. Additionally, the act of walking, combined with deep breathing, enhances circulation and can lead to a sense of physical well-being.

Spiritually, labyrinth walks offer a unique opportunity for introspection and connection with one’s inner self. As you walk the path, you are encouraged to let go of distractions and be present in the moment. This practice can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself, increased clarity, and a sense of calm. Many individuals find that walking a labyrinth helps them to connect with their spirituality, providing insights and guidance that are often difficult to access in the busyness of daily life.

If you’re interested in delving deeper into the transformative power of labyrinth walks, I encourage you to read my book, “Walking the Labyrinth: Your Path to Peace and Possibilities.” This book is filled with stories that illustrate the profound impact labyrinth walks can have on one’s life. In addition, the book discusses techniques to use during a labyrinth walk to maximize its health and spiritual benefits, and a seed pattern to create your own labyrinth. For a limited time, you can get a signed copy directly from my website: http://www.labyrinthlady.ca.

For those who may not have access to a physical labyrinth, I invite you to explore the benefits of using a finger labyrinth. This portable instrument allows you to experience the meditative journey of a labyrinth walk from the comfort of your home or office. By tracing the path with your finger, you can achieve similar relaxation and mindfulness benefits. Visit my website to learn more about my environmentally friendly bamboo finger labyrinths and how they can be a valuable addition to your wellness practice: http://www.labyrinthlady.ca.

Incorporating labyrinth walks into your routine can be a powerful tool for enhancing both your physical and spiritual health. Whether you are seeking stress relief, spiritual growth, or simply a moment of peace, the labyrinth offers a space for reflection and renewal.

I hope you find this practice as enriching and transformative as I have.

Feel free to connect with me on these platforms!

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/vancouverlabyrinth