Native American Sweat Lodge By: J.C. Snyder

History It was prompted by the influence of European culture with its corrupting effect on native culture. With the introduction of alcohol and the inhumane treatment of native people, the need to re-purify themselves. With the help of Medicine Men and Women, they could repair the damage done to their spirits, their minds and their bodies.

Importance The fire that is outside the Sweat Lodge is facing the East. Each new day for all begins in the East with the rising of Father Sun, the source of life and power, dawn of wisdom, while the fire heating the rocks is the undying light of the world, eternity.

Four rounds or sessions. First-is for recognition of the spirit world of the black West. Second-recognition of courage, endurance, strength, cleanliness, and honesty of the white North. Third-The recognition of knowledge and individual prayer symbolize of the red East. Fourth-Stands for the growth and healing of the yellow South. Six colors are also symbolic during the ceremony. Black White Red Yellow Green Blue

Interview “They had to fast before the sweat” This is typically around 24 hours before. They were told that they only are aloud to use certain wood and have to build the lodge also a certain way. Everything has a purpose and meaning. Very dark!!! Extremely hot from the rocks. (sauna) The Medicine Man did his chants in Native tongue. “They went to four sessions each lasting around minutes.

Very very intense! “They chants would give me the chills!” “When we finished all four rounds/sessions your body just felt pure or clean!” Very sacred ceremony!

Sources lod.htm lod.htm My mom and sister