Sweatlodges
A sweatlodge is a powerful purification ritual that has been passed to the modern world from Native American and other First Nations' people. It involves sitting on Mother Earth, in complete darkness, in a simple lodge. Hot rocks are brought in from a fire pit, water is poured on them, prayers are spoken and sung. For descriptions of sweatlodges by Native American elders, click here.
There are many different traditions and rituals around how sweatlodges are conducted. The sweatlodges held at Sacred Groves are "Rainbow" Lodges which means we welcome all traditions. Although we are not offering a "traditional" Native American sweatlodge, we conduct our lodges in a serious and sacred way. Our intention is to show deep respect for the Native American traditions that passed down this ceremony. The ceremony generally lasts several hours starting when the fire is laid and lit, praying while the rocks are heated, then entering the lodge for four rounds (usually a minimum of 2-3 hours).
For more information about indigenous Native American teachings, click here for First Peoples Voices and click here for Four Directions Teachings..
Open sweatlodges for men and women are offered once a season, around the time of the season's change. Private sweatlodges can be arranged as well.
