SWEAT LODGE
Even if you have attended lodge before, be sure to read the details on this page. You will find details specific to our lodge about what to bring, what to wear and what to expect.
Community lodges will be posted on the SCHEDULE
We do offer private lodges for groups, retreats, families, etc.
Please CONTACT us for more info.
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SWEAT LODGE (Inipi)
The “Inipi ceremony" provides us opportunity to come together in community for prayer, healing, and purification. The traditional Native American ceremony has been practiced for thousands of years and has been passed down through the generations.
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WHO MAY ATTEND:
Whether you are a new-comer or have been participating in sweat lodge for years, you are welcome. No prior knowledge or experience is necessary. We simply ask that you hold the ceremony as sacred and respect the traditions and guidelines as they are shared with you.
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WHERE:
The Little Bear Spiritual Wellness Center is located just North of Hillcrest Bank at 1350 Paseo del Pueblo Sur in Taos, NM. We are in Suite A in the back building.
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WHEN:
Start times vary. The ceremony time line is based on when we light the fire. (Please check the schedule for specific details for the date you are interested in coming.)
Please notify us if you plan to attend so we can let you know about last minute changes or cancellations especially when rain, snow, or wind are in the forecast.
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ATTIRE:
Changing area is available.
Don't forget to bring DRY CLOTHES to change into after ceremony.
TOWELS: Some people prefer to bring 2-3 towels:
- One to bring into the lodge to wipe your face (sweat, tears, runny nose) or to place on your lap.
- One to sit on. The lodge floor is dirt which can become muddy with the steam.
- One to dry off after the lodge. The one(s) you bring into the lodge will be wet from the steam.
WOMEN: Traditional sweat attire includes a long skirt and shirt (or shawl) that covers your shoulders OR traditional sweat-dress. If you don't own a long skirt/sweat-dress, you may wear a sarong/wrap over shorts/leggings. We ask that you respect tradition and not wear shorts/leggings on their own without a sarong wrap.
MEN: Please wear LOOSE-fitting shorts/swimming trunks that keep your privates private. (No speedos, bike shorts, or underwear to be substituted for loose-fitting shorts) Please make sure that the waist of your shorts covers your body in an appropriate manor. Shorts that hang too low on the waist will not be allowed. Most men go shirtless, but a t-shirt may be worn if you prefer.
*Please do not wear jewelry, hats, glasses, or shoes in the lodge. (Anything with metal can become very hot.)
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AFTER THE LODGE:
Pay attention to your dreams. After lodge, some people have vivid dreams with messages for you from Spirit.
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CONFIDENTIALITY:
Sometimes people share personal stories or prayers during Inipi (sweat lodge). We ask that anything shared by anyone is kept confidential.
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SUGGESTED DONATION:
Donations are appreciated. (Donations cover prayer tie supplies, firewood, facility rental, etc. There are many expenses involved in making these ceremonies happen.)
PLEASE COME EVEN IF YOU ARE NOT IN A POSITION TO DONATE. No one will be turned away if they cannot make a donation. We mean this from the bottom of our hearts.
