The lodge itself is built from willow saplings or some other supple wood frame. This frame is in the from of a half-dome and covered with blankets and tarps. When completely covered, it can be very dark inside, even in the daylight. Adjacent to the lodge is a fire pit used to heat up rocks. When the stones are good and hot, they are brought into the lodge where the participants have gathered.
Water is poured onto the Stones creating steam.
The Sweat Leader holds the sacred space and helps the participants with prayer and songs. Participants are invited to speak from their hearts about their life and their community concerns. This is a ceremony of purification and prayer. In the heat and the darkness of the lodge, we can come closer to ourselves, closer to Creator, and closer to understanding each other. There are always hospitable folks around ready to make you feel welcome.