The Use of Labyrinths in the University Preparation of Health Professionals

Background: This research outlines the rationale and purpose for using labyrinths as an intervention in the university preparation of health professionals. Labyrinths are circuitous paths that health professionals can use for walking alone or with others on an indoor canvas installation or an outdoor turf installation. Labyrinths can also be traced by a finger on a three-dimensional grooved surface or a two-dimensional paper surface. Usually, a person has an intention for contemplation and selfcare when using a labyrinth. The primary research purpose was to empower university students with future careers in the health professions (e.g., medical, dental, nursing, public health) to use two types of labyrinths during their professional coursework. The aim of the research was: 1) to implement a pilot study with students in the health professions who were assessed on a Labyrinth Survey before and after tracing a finger labyrinth, and 2) to reflect on and organize the written intentions of students who wrote about labyrinth walking in preparation for a career in healthcare. Methods: A mixed-methods research design was employed. Students (n= 27) completed a pretest Labyrinth Survey before tracing a finger labyrinth, followed by the completion of a posttest Labyrinth Survey two weeks later. Students also wrote their intentions prior to walking an indoor labyrinth. Narrative responses from students could be organized by stress management, life purpose, emotional regulation, and contemplative practices. Results: Pilot results showed that a majority of students supported finger labyrinths for overall health, stress management, clearing the mind, and therapeutic movement whereas written intentions for labyrinth walking supported their stress management, life purpose, emotional regulation, and contemplative practices. Conclusion: Labyrinths are a contemplative pedagogy that faculty can use in medical education to support students in their career development. The use of labyrinths by health professionals offers opportunities for selfcare when working in health care.