-
Most GCS Courses are held in Furbo at the Connemara Coast Hotel. Furbo has a labyrinth overlooking Galway bay. Many walk the Labyrinth in silence, almost in a trance, their mind focused and meditative in mood. The Labyrinth parallels the counselling process as a path or journey taken to reach a new point in one's life. But like those that enter psychotherapy/counselling they realise that it is not the end but the journey itself that bears fruit
Photos of Furbo
-
Labyrinths are geometric forms that define sacred space. They have been around for over 4000 years and are contained in every major religion. To walk the path is to make a pilgrimage that calms the mind so the person can reflect on the journey of life. The centre is surrounded by 6 petals said to symbolise mineral, vegetable, animal, human, angelic and the divine. Some believe labyrinths were used to track lunar months and depict the orbit of the Mercury. Walking into the centre of the labyrinth is the period of letting go, calming and empting oneself. The centre is for determining what it is that one actually requires from life and walking out is for gathering together oneself and experiencing wholeness and integration. [Adapted from writings by M. Crosby]
Furbo has a beach and woods. It is ideal for walkers and swimmers alike. Information about local walks is available from the hotel. You can walk along the shoreline or the road to Furbo beach which has a bar and restaurant beside it
-
Accommodation -
Connemara Coast Hotel Ph: 091 592108. Cedar Lodge B & B is very popular with students Ph: 091 592111
Directions -
On entering Galway follow signs marked Spiddal. The Hotel is a few miles past Barna on your left. Furbo is 7 miles from the city centre
-
Transport -
Click here for bus service. Course participants are usually very helpful in giving non-car drivers lifts in and out from the city