GCS
Courses are held in Furbo which 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 counselling they
realise it is not the end but the journey itself that bears
fruit
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
Connemara
Coast Hotel Ph: 091 592108 (special rate for GCS students). Cedar Lodge
B & B, run by Joe and Beady, Ph: 091 592111. Beside Galway Bay in
easy walking distance of the hotel.
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