It has been said that indigenous sweat lodges are the most powerful structures in the world. What makes them this way? What happens in a sweat lodge? Well, to start off with the first question, the frame of this powerful structure stands like a dome, constructed out of flexible saplings. The frame is then covered using tree bark or other natural available materials. Modernly breathable materials like canvas can be used. A pit exists in the middle of each seat lodge to place hot rocks which are called grandfathers. The grand fathers are heated in a pyramidal shape a few meters to the east out side of the lodge. Each lodge is run by a trained fire keeper and conductor. It is a special honor to be able to host sweat ceremonies, so not just anyone can host them. Male and female participants have different rules to follow in order to attend a sweat ceremony in which the conductor is able to relay before each sweat. A few examples would be dressing modestly for both men and women. Another important rule is that women experiencing the bleeding component of their menstrual cycle cannot enter the sweat ceremony because they are at the most powerful state.
Sweat ceremonies are very sacred. They have a significant healing component attached to them. Sweat Lodges are smudged before the ceremony begins before the first grandfather enters the lodge.The first grandfather in the sweat represents the creator and enters the pit alone. From then on the grandfathers enter the lodge and each are smudged. Men enter the lodge first followed by women who sit in the south. Each person recites,” all my relations,” upon entry. The door then closes and the sweat begins, The Conductor pours water on the hot rocks and steam arises. Each person is given an opportunity to pray or purify themselves in order of a talking circle. This is repeated into four rounds coinciding with the four sacred directions. This entire process can be repeated as well. It is important to note that there are different levels of sweat ceremonies, some much hotter than others.
This is relevant for the health care community to acknowledge for the fact that we may have patients that admit to our units or departments due to burns experienced from sacred and spiritual ceremonies as such. It is important that we as health professionals are understanding and supportive of our clients. Although we are healing physical burns from higher risk practices, a higher healing has taken place for that indigenous client. Also re-hydration therapy may be indicated due to dehydration experienced through fluid and electrolyte loss from sweating.
For anymore information on sweat lodge ceremonies, please visit your local sources of indigenous information, Mark’s blog post or the following websites that were used as follows:
http://www.muiniskw.org/pgCulture2d.htm
http://www.manygoodteachings.com/sweatlodge-understanding.html
Click here for more information on smudging ceremonies.
Two-Eyed Seeing for Health 