Sweat Lodge
Protocol:
Before the Sweat Lodge:
(abbreviated)
* WHY DO YOU WANT TO DO THE SWEAT?
If you know about prayer (tobacco) ties make them ahead of time, if you
want. The Elders may ask why you are bringing them in, as they may ask
you many other questions.
* FASTING
Try to at least not eat supper. If you can, try to fast the day of the
Sweat Lodge, drinking water or cleansing teas. If you need to eat, eat
very light foods - fruits and veggies. DO NOT eat close to Lodge time.
This is all part of the cleansing that continues during the Sweat Lodge.
* NO ALCOHOL OR ILLEGAL DRUGS
at least 24 hours before the Sweat Lodge. If you take medication make
sure with your physician that it's alright for you to do the Lodge.
Some Lodge leaders require a week of a clean body and that may be your
preference, as you think on and prepare for the Sweat Lodge and it's
meaning to you.
* TRADITIONALLY no woman on
their moon time (menstruating) are allowed in or around the Sweat
Lodge. Depending on the Lodge leader and will be discussed before the
Sweat Lodge Ceremony and during preparation.
BRING TO THE SWEAT LODGE:
* AN OFFERING for the leader
of the Lodge and the rock person - at least tobacco, sage, or other
Sacred Herb for them. A gift for any other person you might feel the
Spirit to share with. Ideas other than herbs: 100% cotton red cloth,
anything handmade by yourself or others. NOTE - We will have
many of the Sacred Herbs for Sale at the registration table that are
grown in a Sacred manner with prayers and love. Any gifts given at the
table go directly to the Elders fund.
* A CHANGE OF CLOTHES -
Sweat Lodge clothing is cotton for your comfort. PLEASE no
metal on clothing because of extreme heat.
MEN - shorts or swim trunks - t-shirts
optional. WOMEN - Sarong, long dress below knees or skirts and
top or t-shirt. FEET - bring flip-flops or other shoes you
don't mind getting wet.
* NO METAL OR JEWELRY in the
Sweat Lodge because of extreme heat and possibility of burns. These
items and any other objects you wish to have blessed may be left on the
altar in front of the Lodge.
* BRING A TOWEL
* A BOTTLE OF WATER or more
for before and after the Sweat Lodge. Not during, unless approved by
the Lodge leader.
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