Earth Sauna

The Earth Sauna Sacred Gathering is a purification ceremony. It comes to us from deep within the spiritual framework of indigenous peoples; particularly from some of the First People of America.

This is a highly personal experiential spiritual experience however the other participants who make up the community both in the earth sauna and supporting you outside the earth sauna significantly impacts the tenor of the event.

The earth sauna itself consists of a small, dome-like shelter in which participants experience four rounds or "endurances," with a brief respite between each endurance. During each endurance, water is sprinkled on heated rocks creating a steamy atmosphere in which the participants can meditate, sing, pray and share aspects of their personal life journeys and longings. The physicality of the ceremony as well as the use of only the basic elements needed for our existence (earth, air, fire and water) assists one in viewing life from a different perspective and opens one up to the possibility of obtaining new wisdom. Most importantly we may experience a deeper connection to ourselves and to that which many call the Mystery. In the end, we revel and celebrate and know that we are a small but infinitely sacred part of a much larger process.

Time will be taken prior to entering the earth sauna to get to know one another, discuss safety issues, and look at some of the traditions, symbols and imagery around this most sacred ritual. Alone time is provided as part of the preparation prior to entering the lodge.

The Earth Sauna Sacred Gathering is provided in two different formats and locations. There is a two-day weekend in a wooded 250 acre camp located near Ottawa, Illinois. There is also a 1 day retreat located at the 5 acre Relax4Life Center in Barrington, Illinois.


Physical Issues:
Fasting, some limited physical work, as well as exposure to heat and cold, are all part of this weekend. Adjustments to accommodate people with differing physical abilities can be made. If you are seeing a counselor you should notify him/her that you are attending this event. If you have significant medical problems you should notify your physician that you are attending this event. If you have any concerns, please contact Terry prior to registering to discuss your specific needs and let him know of any medical or mental health concerns.

Schedules

2-day Earth Sauna Sacred Gatherings

Arrive by noon on Saturday and leave by 12:00 on Sunday.

Saturday
Noon: Registration— set up in cabins
1:00 p.m.: Friendship Circle
Earth Sauna Logistics
Preparing the earth sauna
Personal Preparation Time
Earth Sauna Ceremony
10:30 p.m.: Breaking of the Fast

Sunday
8:00 am: Breakfast
9:00 am: Group Sharing
Dismantling of the earth sauna
11:00 a.m. Final Words and Departure

For more information, e-mail Terry at terry@motherearthadventures.com

One-Day Earth Sauna Sacred Gatherings

Arrive by 8:15 a.m.
Preparing the Earth Sauna
Friendship Circle
Earth Sauna Logistics
Personal Preparation Time
Earth Sauna Ceremony
Dismantling of the Earth Sauna
Breaking of the Fast
Group Sharing
7:00 p.m. Final Words and Departure

For more information, e-mail Neal Harris at neal@ relax4life.com