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Founder of Vancity Labyrinth

Taanishi! Hello!

Welcome to Vancity Labyrinth. I am a mixed heritage Metis woman who is originally from Treaty 1 territory (Winnipeg, MB). I am a facilitator, instructor at the Justice Institute co-teaching on power and privilege, writer (published in SAY Magazine, Liisbeth Magazine and the World Federation Association of Teacher's Education journal), and speaker (HILTI North America; Guusto; Toastmasters International Speech Competitions; Small Business BC).

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After earning my master's degree in leadership from Royal Roads University with a focus on decolonizing business through workplace spirituality, I became interested in the potential benefits of labyrinths in the workplace.

Vanessa Lesperance
Meet the owner
Decolonizin Business
Labyrinth mat

I had my first experience walking a labyrinth at the Anvil Centre in New West in 2018. For me, it was profound. It truly felt like journeying inwards. My hope is that others will experience similar uplifting and soothing benefits with an invitation to slow down and connect to self. 

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Labyrinths are thousands of years old and have been found around the world. Humans have used them for mental, emotional, spiritual and physical well-being for numerous generations. I invite you to discover the potential for the well-being of yourself, your guests or your team members. 

Part of decolonizing business means being more people oriented and valuing authentic connections to self and others. Decolonizing business also allows people to bring their whole selves to work: mind, body, emotion and spirit. 

Our workshop series is a method to decolonize your business, event or school by offering an experience that addresses our holistic well-being. 

Labyrinths (spirals) have been used by Indigenous peoples globally. We invite you to decolonize your workplace by offering an ancient modality to address modern day challenges.

Southwest-Puebloan-Spiral-Petroglyph_edi
Spirit of the Children logo.jpg

Reconciliation

As someone who represents both colonized and colonizer, I believe it is my responsibility to do business in a good way and work towards reconciliation in my business. That is why I strive toward Truth and Reconciliation's (TRC) call to action #92 by acknowledging the territory on which I live and work and by giving back a portion of my proceeds to Spirit of the Children Society based on Qay'qayt (New West) territory. 

Labyrinth outline
Our Labyrinth
Walking the Labyrinth

Using a labyrinth is considered a walking meditation so each experience will be highly unique to each individual. Some may feel calmer and relaxed, some might feel more centered and grounded, and others may have profound revelations or deep reflections. There is no right or wrong outcome. 

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Unlike a maze, there is a single path that ventures into the center of the labyrinth. There is no getting lost or wrong turns. This is also metaphorical for the journey of our lives. 

Read more about labyrinths and ideas on how to use them here

How to Ue Our Labyrinth
What's Included with Your Labyrinth Workshop or Rental
Each rental includes:

Set up and take down

Soothing sound bath to enhance the experience

Optional use of intention cards to have an affirmation or question to reflect on

Finger labyrinth to take home with you

Gratitude and reflection board to write down thoughts/gratitude

Option to add a 2-hour labyrinth workshop

Size and material

Our labyrinths are 18 feet wide and can be used indoors or outside (weather dependent). Ideally, no more than 3 people walk the labyrinth at the same time - simply to avoid overcrowding and to prevent anyone feeling rushed.

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The labyrinth is a portable mat made out of durable poly-nylon material (feel smooth and silky on bare feet)

Our labyrinth is fashioned after the Chartres style of labyrinth. Chartres labyrinth was created during the 13th century in Chartres Cathedral in France. 

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However, in general labyrinths date "back to prehistoric time, and is perceived as a sacred space. It has been an integral part of many cultures, such as Celtic, Mayan, Greek, and Cretan. The labyrinth predates Christianity by 3500 years, from medieval times the labyrinth have been in Christian churches and spiritual places. Some of the simplest and most ancient labyrinth patterns have been found in the Mediterranean and Celtic lands." (Friends of the Labyrinth).

Chartres labyrinth

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Experience an ancient and sacred journey to meet you on your own personal path.
 

#JourneyInward 

History & style

Labyrinth setup
example:

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