Sweatlodge

This paper is based upon the teaching of the Bear Clan. These teachings are based on the oral tradition, which has been passed on from generation to generation. History (teachings) passed on orally become very difficult to credit to a specific person (elder). Therefore, acknowledging the exact origin of these teachings maybe impossible. However, the teaching of the sweatlodge that will be discussed in this paper has been taught to us by Mike Relland and Elder Danny Musqua. Both, however, would be quick to acknowledge that the teachings of the sweatlodge are not theirs. As Elder Danny Musqua would say the "old ones" have passed on these teachings. In this paper we will discuss the ceremony of the sweatlodge, as described by the Bear Clan. Moreover, the basis of this research originates from an oral interview with Mike Relland, the teachings of Elder Danny Musqua and our personal experiences with the sweatlodge. In conclusion, because the ideas, knowledge and information present...