Short-term autonomic nervous system and experiential responses during a labyrinth walk

Walking a projected light labyrinth for about 10 minutes produced a short-term physiological arousal followed by relaxation in 25 young adults and youth. During the walk, respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) decreased and salivary alpha amylase (sAA) increased, indicating autonomic arousal. After the walk, RSA increased, indicating relaxation, and participants self-reported calmness. The findings suggest labyrinth walking may be a useful tool for managing psychological stress.

Study at a glance

Abstract

The labyrinth is a simple geometric form with one path leading to the center and out. It is often used in religious and health-related institutions for quiet walking and meditation. It is considered a convenient tool for decreasing psychological and physical stress. This study sought to better understand and characterize the short-term physiological responses of the autonomic nervous system associated with walking a projected light labyrinth by measuring respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) and salivary alpha amylase (sAA) in 25 young adults and youth. Our objective was to examine the physiology of labyrinth walking as a potential clinical tool for use by individuals who are experiencing psychological stress. Three hypotheses were put forward: 1) walking the labyrinth would result in physiological arousal as indicated by a decrease in RSA and an increase in sAA; 2) physiological relaxation would be indicated by an increase in RSA after the labyrinth walk; and 3) participants would self-report calmness and relaxation following the labyrinth. Consistent with hypotheses, participants experienced immediate physiological arousal while walking the labyrinth, and heightened physiological and self-reported relaxation during and after the labyrinth walk.