There's something mesmerizing about labyrinths and mazes. Being immersed in solving a large-scale puzzle provides fascination as well as inspiration. However, there is a definite distinction between a labyrinth and a maze. Mazes are puzzles in which choices are made as to paths and directions. A labyrinth, however, is a single, meditative, path leading to the center through a series of concentric rings, known as circuits. One can think of a maze as a place to get lost, and a labyrinth as a place to find oneself.

"Be Present" Labyrinth: Take a "walk" around this labyrinth with your finger to stimulate productivity.

Found all over the world since ancient times, labyrinths have a purpose: they are used as walking meditation, personal transformation, and a way to re-focus and stimulate creativity. Want to "walk" a labyrinth right now? Use your finger to trace the path to the center (and back out again) on the finger-labyrinth above.

Labyrinth for Contemplation, Battery Park, NYC

Need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city? Take a walk in New York City's Battery Park, where you will find the hidden gem known as the "Labyrinth for Contemplation."

Which do you prefer, a labyrinth, or a maze?

Nicoletta is a lifelong artist and art educator, with an M.A. in Art Education and Administration. She travels the world seeking cultural inspiration for her art, and has worked in fibers, acrylics, oils, and sculpture. Her current work is inspired by the reinvention of the mundane zipper, elevated to an art form into unexpected jewelry designs, and shown throughout the New York/New Jersey area as Artologie Zipper Jewelry.