Ceremonies Offered: (click on the ceremony for more info)
Sweat Lodge
Medicine Wheel
Vision Quest
Drum Circle
THERE IS NEVER A CHARGE FOR CEREMONY. PLEASE DO NOT ALLOW COST TO PREVENT YOU FROM COMING.
However, it IS appropriate to complete the energy exchange for the people who lead the ceremonies. As a general rule, trust your guidance as to what you gift. If you have no idea what would be appropriate, we would suggest the energy exchange for Sweat Lodges and Medicine Wheels is $20 per person, Drum Circles is $10 per person and $50 for Vision Quests -- although less, more, an item, and/or a prayer would be very much appreciated.
Munay is a non-profit organization, and all Gratitude Offerings are used to support our events, including the Sweat Lodge, Medicine Wheel, Drum Circle, Vision Quest, Workshops and Events. Due to the high cost of supplies -- wood for the fire, sage, tobacco, drinking water, and more -- donations are appreciated.
Sweat Lodge
What is a Sweat Lodge?
A sweat lodge is an ancient ceremony used for purification and healing. Most people experience a shift either from the release of prayers or simply by the re-unification to Mother Earth. Although the intention of each lodge can be different, the sacred space created by the darkness and the heat always allows for Spirit to whisper into the ears of those present.
What happens at a Sweat Lodge?
A sacred fire is built around stones outside the lodge and is monitored by a fire tender. Participants crawl into the lodge and the hot stones are placed into a pit in the center. The stones are blessed by the leader with cedar and sweet grass. Water is then sprinkled on the rocks, instantly turning into steam. This begins round 1 in which songs are sung and prayers are made to the Creator. At the end of the round, more stones are added for round two. There are a total of four rounds, honoring each of the four cardinal directions. After the Sweat, all are welcome to share in a feast.
General Items to Bring
• Wear something that can get dirty & sweaty. Attire for the sweat is traditionally a shirt and pair of shorts. Nudity is NOT allowed. Modesty is expected, as this is a sacred ceremony.
• Comfortable shoes, as the lodge is at the bottom of a semi-steep hill.
• There is no cost for the Sweat, however it is appropriate to bring tobacco, a small gift, or monetary gift for the fire-tender and lodge leader, both of whom offer their services to the people as a gift.
• Bring two towels -- one to sit on in the lodge if you prefer, and one to dry off with afterward.
• If you are participating in a night-time Sweat, bring a flashlight.
• A change of clothes for after the Sweat.
• A covered dish for the community dinner.
Medicine Wheel
What is a Medicine Wheel?
The Medicine Wheel is an honoring of Mother Earth. It explores the cardinal directions, their energies, power and animal spirit guides and the relationships of all living beings as we walk the Circle of Life. We reconnect to the Earth and to each other. A Medicine Wheel is the physical representation of the Circle of Life and all our relations. It is typically constructed of stones, but never limited to only stones. Each Medicine Wheel Healer creates their Wheel as they are led by Spirit. Some ancient Medicine Wheels coordinated with astrological occurances. All Wheels connect the 4 cardinal directions & their meaning in the Circle of Life. As we walk the Wheel, we are re-establishing our relationship with Mother Earth and all beings.
What can I expect at a Medicine Wheel?
The Wheel is constructed prior to the start of the ceremony. All participants gather around the wheel and sit in a circle. Intentions are set and prayers are offered. Each person has the opportunity to walk the Wheel and celebrate the Earth, Life, Spirit and all our relations. Nature offerings are given to the directions. Each ceremony may be unique as Spirit leads.
General Items to Bring
• A blanket or towel to sit on outside.
• An offering from Nature to heal Mother Earth.
• Comfortable shoes, as the lodge is at the bottom of a semi-steep hill.
• There is no cost for the Wheel, however it is appropriate to offer a small gift or monetary gift to the Wheel Healer who offers their services to the people as a gift.
Drum Circle
What is a Drum Circle?
The Drum is the heartbeat of Mother Earth. In the sacred circle we call to her, we listen to her, we learn from her and we heal her.
General Items to Bring
• Your personal drum, as we only have a few to share.
• Other instruments or rattles for the 5th round.
• Perhaps a blanket if you prefer to sit closer to Mother Earth.
Vision Quest
A Vision Quest is a self-guided search for knowledge within. Munay will provide a safe environment in which to Journey. Since each Quest is unique with reference to intent, length, fasting, and Spiritual consultation, please call us to discuss the best options for you, (704) 263-5323.