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Experience the Healing Power of Temazcal: A Traditional Mexican Sweat Lodge

Jessica ProctorNovember 4, 202407 mins

A temazcal is a traditional Mexican steam bath that closely resembles the Native American sweat lodge. It serves not only to promote physical well-being and detoxification but also acts as a spiritual and ritualistic practice. During this experience, traditional healing methods encourage participants to reflect and introspect. As the body sweats out toxins, the spirit undergoes a renewal process. Symbolically, the temazcal is seen as the womb; those emerging from the bath are considered to be re-born.

Exploring Sweat Lodge Safety: Are They Safe for You?

Lauren NewmanNovember 3, 202407 mins

Sweat lodges are a part of traditional Native American culture and medicine, serving as a sacred ceremony aimed at both spiritual and physical cleansing. Sweat lodges have been a longstanding practice in both European and Native American cultures, with most people participating safely in these meaningful experiences. However, the tragic deaths of three individuals in a sweat lodge led by “self-help” author James Arthur Ray near Sedona, Arizona in 2009 raised serious questions about the safety of these rituals. It is crucial to understand that the problem was not the sweat lodge itself, but rather the approach taken by James Arthur Ray, who appropriated a sacred Native tradition for misguided purposes. His retreat was poorly managed and built incorrectly, using plastic tarps, ultimately pressuring participants beyond their safe limits.