The Sweatlodge

The Sweatlodge is for me probably the fullest expression of what this Shamanic thing is about. You're sat there on the muddy ground, melted out of your mind and into your heart by the dark and the steam and the ceremony; immersed in the 4 sacred Elements of Earth, Fire, Air and Water; and you're giving thanks, along with the community of people around you, for all the good things in your life; and praying for the things that need fixing. 

Shamanism is an earth-path; it is not about ascension; it is about remembering that we belong to Mother Earth, that there is no part of us that does not belong to her, and that she will take care of us, just as she takes care of all of life. From this remembering and gratitude and prayer, all else flows. Life works, life is in balance.