Pine Grove uses Ancient Labyrinth Experience to Facilitate Modern Treatment
Though this is a new addition to the treatments and experiences offered for Pine Grove patients, the practice of walking labyrinths has been used in many cultures for over 3,500 years. A labyrinth consists of a walking path, designated by a pattern set into or printed on the floor or constructed of stones or other materials. Though there are many kinds of labyrinths, all share the basic features of one entrance and exit, a single path and a center. Those who walk a labyrinth, including Pine Grove’s patients, may use it for prayer, reflection, or as an opportunity to center themselves for healing.
“A labyrinth is a wonderful therapeutic tool that allows patients to move away from some of the constant chatter in their heads to find a place of stillness,” said Peter Smeele, Director of Spiritual Services at Pine Grove. Smeele added that a labyrinth offers the opportunity for Pine Grove’s patients to remember and release, but also to receive and to learn to live with their hearts wide open.
A labyrinth walk mirrors a life journey in that no two people walk the labyrinth in the exact same way. The labyrinth can be walked alone or with others, silently or while singing or speaking, creating an experience that fosters reflection and enlightment, as well as a process of self-discovery. For patients at Pine Grove, who may be recovering from an addiction or eating disorder, or learning to live with a psychiatric disease, each step is an opportunity to simply reflect, or to celebrate the goals and accomplishments reached on the road to recovery.
The purchase of this portable labyrinth allows counselors and other Pine Grove staff to learn how to integrate it into treatment programs, in anticipation of construction of a permanent labyrinth, to be located within Pine Grove’s Spiritual Grounds. This area is designed to be a space that encourages healing for both patients and the community. The area for the ongoing Spiritual Grounds project is located on the Pine Grove campus, at the corner of Richburg Road and 28th Avenue Extension, and represents Pine Grove’s commitment to promote healing and positively affect patients, their families and community members far into the future.
The first element of Spiritual Grounds was dedicated last fall with the unveiling of the Paul McMullan Plaza and Circle of Healing Sculpture. Preparations are already underway for future elements, including a chapel, bell tower, meditation garden and the permanent labyrinth. This project is being supported and facilitated by Forrest General, Pine Grove and the Forrest General Healthcare Foundation, which is currently working to raise funds for future elements of the Spiritual Grounds area, as well as other future developments for the hospital.
Visit http://www.pinegrovetreatment.com/ or call 1-888-574-HOPE (4673) for more information.
Pine Grove Behavioral Health and Addiction Services in Hattiesburg, Mississippi is known as one of the nation’s most comprehensive treatment campuses. For over twenty five years Pine Grove has offered a continuum of services ranging from outpatient to inpatient and residential treatment for adults, children and adolescents suffering from psychiatric and addictive diseases. Specialized services include the treatment of addictions, eating disorders, and professionals struggling with interpersonal difficulties. The Pine Grove Mission is to be a leader in healing and changing lives by providing the highest quality behavioral health services.
Labels: Addiction Recovery, Addiction Treatment, Behavioral Health, Eating-Disorders, Pine Grove Treatment, Sexual Addiction, Suicide
