Bracebridge residents Pam Rimmer and Nancy Knox are proposing a labyrinth be built at Bracebridge’s Annie Williams Memorial Park.
Rimmer says labyrinths have been around for thousands of years to the 5th century BCE.
“You can never get lost,” she continues. The idea is that, unlike mazes, every path leads to the centre. The goal is to reach the middle and reflect on your journey. “Walking a labyrinth is very calming,” says Rimmer.
“When you’re walking in the idea is you’re remembering or releasing and it just kind of happens, just by walking,” continues Rimmer. “And when you get to the centre you’re receiving whatever information you’re supposed to get, or peace, or whatever. On your way out you’re resolving.”
After talking with a handful of landscapers, Rimmer says the estimates were between $18,000 and $20,000. She adds they have already raised around $16,000 for the project from various sources, including $5,000 from the Rotary Club of Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes.
Rimmer’s interest in labyrinths stems from her own mental health. She goes on a yearly “silent retreat” and part of it involves her walking the labyrinth in the area where she stays. She explains the walk is a calming opportunity for her, adding she often finds a bench to sit on afterwards to journal.
“We both feel that this would be a wonderful addition to the community, engaging all types of people from young and old with or without disabilities,” says Rimmer.
Rimmer and Knox sent a letter to Bracebridge council outlining their idea. Rimmer says she’s been told it will be discussed at a future council meeting.