The Sweat Lodge

Sweat bathing is a powerful cleansing and healing ritual from numerous cultures.  The Finnish sauna, Mexican temascal, Native American sweat lodge, Roman balneae or thermae, Russian bania, and Turkish hamman are all places considered to be deeply connected to the spirit world. The Solstice gathering does this work in a Native American sweat lodge. Our lodges are rainbow lodges, meaning that the teachings and traditions of many beliefs are welcome. Lodges are used for many specific intentions–generally they are used to purify and cleanse in preparation for sacred work; to release or transform energies which no longer serve; to heal yourself and others mentally, emotionally and spiritually; to re-birth and re-new from the womb of the mother; to sit with Creator and receive spirits messages; and to honor special events.

Lodge involves crawling into a simple domed structure and sitting on Mother Earth. Rocks, heated in sacred fire, are brought into the lodge by the firetenders and the door is closed. Once you are in total darkness, water is poured on the rocks by the Pourer and steam rises as prayers, chanting, story-telling, toning, tears and laughter rise. This harmonious blending of the elements, the guidance of spirit through the Pourer, and the support of the firetenders offers a beautiful, powerful and transformative ritual for you to do your work and receive what you need for your highest and best good.  To all my relations.

If you wish to sweat, look for sign-up sheets for lodges at the registration tent when you arrive at the gathering.