Unmanaged anxiety is a significant driver of behavioral health problems. Toward this end, Blue Skies RI is asking for help engaging the community in considering the merits of the public practice of walking meditation. Many towns, colleges, and institutions of faith have installed meditative labyrinths throughout New England. These labyrinths are not uniquely statements of art or of faith but rather larger statements of a local commitment to behavioral health.
On March 19th the Town of Warren will initiate consideration of possible locations which might be appropriate for installing a walking meditative labyrinth. The Parks and Recreation Department will host the meeting which is hoped to engage interests from friends and families with anxious loved ones, from local artists, from the substance use recovery and prevention communities, and from the East Bay Interfaith Association.
There is much to consider, and the process of discussing a community-owned labyrinth installation is as important as the future labyrinth itself. Issues include the style, scale, and as well as the accessibility and walkability of a path itself. Future maintenance costs as well as sponsorship possibilities for the installation need to be considered. Site issues will include public visibility, a serene vista, parking logistics, and synergy with related civic memorial land uses.
We encourage all interested parties to attend on March 19th and to stay tuned for follow-up discussions.
For more details, see the flyer.