The lodge itself is usually made of saplings or bamboo - some kind of framework in a dome shape that is covered by blankets, tarps, canvas or animal skins to keep the heat in. Generally, a lodge can accommodate four to six people comfortably; it may hold as many as 15 or more people. Participants gather within the darkened interior to endure the steam generated by the pouring of water over the hot stones.

The lodge itself is made of willow saplings shaped into a framework in a dome shape that is covered by blankets, tarps, canvas or animal skins to keep the heat in. The entire ceremony is a prayer - from placing the stones, to making the fire, to actually going into the lodge. We drum and sing prayer songs in the Lakota language which are actually heart songs. The lodges are about health, hope, healing, and happiness. We believe that prayer changes things and that this is a powerful way to put your prayers in motion. When the water hits the stones the steam is the breath of God.

Here at High Mesa the Lakota Sioux Ceremony is practiced. While the sweat lodge itself is simple enough to describe, the actual experience is not easily expressed in words. You have to participate in it to truly realize its fullness and depth. From the preparation of the fire, covering of the frame, making the tobacco prayer ties and on through the many facets of the ritual, the seeker is involved in a sacred inner journey that can be profoundly transforming. The entire ceremony from preparation to feast can take 41/2 to 6 hours.

The Sweat Lodge begins with the preparation of the site: care of the fire pit, building the fire, moving stones from the lodge back to the fire, covering the lodge, etc. Being there to participate in the preparation is a huge blessing for everyone involved, and makes the work an easier load to bear. If for some reason you are unable to arrive at the beginning, by all means please arrive when you can.

Clothing for a sweat lodge should be modest. Women should be dressed in a skirt – wearing one over jeans is fine in cool weather or to work the Fire. Shirts or blouses should cover the shoulders. Once preperations are complete we change clothing to enter the lodge. It can be quite hot and you want to be comfortable. Moo-moos, sarongs, and long T-shirt dresses are appropriate. Men may wear shorts or loose lightweight trousers and shirts or towels to cover their shoulders. In colder weather, you may also want a robe or something similar to keep you warm before entering the lodge. It is always a good idea to have a towel with you during the Ceremony.

Men and women both, are expected to keep the intentions clear about being there for the purpose of praying. Ceremonial energy and sexual energy can be very similar and we ask that folks are aware of this. The first is appropriate, the second is not.

Women at “Moon Time”
Women attending the lodge must be aware of "Moon Time" or your menstrual cycles. During this time of the month you are celebrating the most sacred of ceremonies - that of creation and giving life. It is an energy that is grounding, your flow moves downward and connects you to the earth mother. During this time you will not be able to participate in the lodge ceremony itself. You will be welcomed to the lodge because we would like to honor you and the powerful energy you bring during this time. A space will be created within a cedar circle and you will be close enough to watch and hear the Ceremony. We will take good care of you. When you arrive, let us know so that proper preparations can be made. If women have other questions in regard to this issue please have them call Sonnie at 575-682-6361.

The lodge is followed by a potluck feast, so bring something to contribute. It is also customary to bring a small package of tobacco to gift to the water pourer and the fire keeper. This is an energy exchange that honors the work of these individuals. These pouches/ packages can usually be found at most convenience stores.

We also accept a love offering donation – never required – to help pay for the cost of materials for the lodge, fuel expenses, and a donation for the healing center that hosts the lodge. All of us who pour lodge at High Mesa travel from 30 minutes to an hour to be here. Your offerings are gratefully accepted as an exchange of energy that enhances the experience and allows us all to be honored by the ceremony.

The Sweat Lodge team also supports the High Mesa Scholarship Fund (make it link) and encourages those who enjoy the lodges, and are financially blessed, to be generous in their support so that others less fortunate may benefit as well.

WOMEN ONLY Sweat Lodges
These women-only events give us the chance to connect as women, friends, sisters, mothers, grandmothers, and all of the other realms that we fill. It is something that is missing in today’s society. We will stand in a place of love & healing.

We encourage as many who can to come help with preparation before the sweat begins; it will deepen your experience. Additionally, preparation is work: the fire pit, moving rocks, covering the lodge, etc. – all of these are easier handled by a group. That is especially true of the women’s lodge when none of the men are present.

In other respects, a women’s lodge is very similar to all others.

In a nutshell:

Bring: A dish to share at the feast.
A gift of tobacco
Appropriate clothing
Open, prayerful heart

Set aside:
4-6 hours for the full experience

Take with you:
Renewal of Spirit
A joyful heart
New friends
and the powerful exchange of energy with a dedicated team