Etiquette
For
people who have never participated in our sweat lodge ceremony or those who
have come to many, there may be questions about etiquette. Each water pourer
has different protocol on how to conduct the ceremony. The following is a brief
list of information that is fairly standard to our Lodges.
List
of Do's and Don'ts
No alcohol or drugs may be used within 24 hrs of
participating in lodge.
Leave your hatred, jealousy, fights, arguments and
prejudice away from lodge site.
Women on their moon time (menstrual period) should
ask the water pourer before entering ceremony area, sweat lodge or altar area.
Woman are very spiritually powerful at this time and can actually "drown
out" the power of the Pipe to transmit the people's prayers. Out of
respect to the needs of people to use the pipe to pray, they should refrain
from the use of or contact with the pipe.
Never cross the 'line' from the fire to the lodge.
Do not wear jewelry, watches, crystals, glasses,
etc…
You can support by helping keep the fire, carrying
stone or by asking what chores are needed. Ask the water pourer, doorkeeper or
fire tender what you can do to help.
During a round you may leave lodge at any time,
just tell the water pourer and if you are able you may return at the beginning
of the next round.
Do not litter in any way, shape or form. The Earth
is our Mother. Treat Her with respect.
All people are considered part of the family while
in the lodge area.
The lodge and pipe ceremonies are sacred and should
be treated as such.
Be sure to mention to the water pourer any health
concerns, issues or medications you may have that could be effected by high
heat or strenuous exercise.
Ask the water pourer or one of the fire tenders
before you place any object on the altar mound or take anything besides your
towel into the lodge with you.
Remember, there is one boss the water pourer. If you have a question about what is appropriate, ask.
