The Sweat Lodge

Sweat lodges are traditionally constructed of willow branches covered with matting, dirt, bark, and grass. In contemporary lodges tarps may be used to aid in steam retention. The lodge is low and entrance is by means of a ground level opening. Inside the hut there is a dugout pit for the heated rocks and participants sit on mats or blankets around the perimeter. In the Shuswap tradition the entrance to the lodge is facing east - where the sun rises.
The earth from the interior pit is mounded outside the entranceway to be used as an altar while the fire for heating the rocks is in a direct line a few feet beyond the altar.
Twenty eight volcanic rocks are heated in the flames and the sweat begins when seven of the heated rocks are placed into the interior pit.
Entering on your knees you crawl around the left rim of the circle. When all are settled the tarp is closed on the entranceway. If one is to lead he then initiates the prayers. The steam rises from incantations of water spilled periodically over the rocks.