Second sweat lodge opens in Edmonton

All ages can access the Sacred Family Lodge

Cutting the ribbon on the Bent Arrow sweat lodge, June 18. | Tanner Augier

Excitement rippled through the crowd attending the June opening of Edmonton’s second Indigenous sweat lodge on the grounds of Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society.

The significant project took six years of planning and implementation. Much longer, actually, as remembered by Bent Arrow executive director Cheryl Whiskeyjack. Creating an inner city sweat lodge and ceremonial building was on the agenda since the launch of the organization back in 1994. “For Indigenous people, the sweat lodge is like a church, a mosque, a temple or other kind of spiritual gathering place. We come to the sweat lodge for wisdom and healing. The sweat helps all people to make a strong connection with Indigenous culture,” she told the eager crowd.

Housed in a small building, fenced for security, participants will be able to enter and exit the permanent sweat lodge with some ease. Behind the small dome-shaped lodge, a few steps lead into a cozy room with changing areas. Comfortable couches and chairs are set in a circle for sharing and relaxing. A kitchenette is handy for hot or cold beverages and snacks.

A wood stove is a standout in the room. According to senior manager and project lead Lloyd Yellowbird, it was clear from the start that a wood stove was a must. “It is part of our heritage. A wood stove reminds us that our families came together for warmth, comfort, and cooking.”

A sweat lodge ceremony is not a rushed process. A full day of preparation is required. Special rocks, such as lava rocks, are heated for placement in a shallow pit inside the lodge. Participants sit on the ground inside the lodge and around the pit. A flap is pulled shut over the entrance, leaving the lodge in darkness except for the glow of the heated rocks.

Dallas Arcand, an internationally known Cree hoop dancer, performed to great applause at the Bent Arrow sweat lodge ribbon cutting. | Constance Brissenden

Participants often wear shorts or skirts and t-shirts to withstand the heat. A towel to sit on, plus a wet cloth, are welcome “accessories,” as required. The sweat lodge keeper, who guides the ceremony, is responsive to anyone having difficulty. The flap will immediately open to allow that person to be helped outside. The process involves “rounds,” as many as three or four times. After each round, the flap is opened, and participants exit to take a breather. During these breaks, more rocks are added.

I am a non-Indigenous person who took part in several sweat ceremonies with my Cree partner, Larry Loyie (1933-2016). On a personal note, I can say that sharing a sweat is always a unique experience. I have memories that still influence my life. Enter respectfully with an open heart and open mind.

For Larry Loyie, a residential school survivor, sweats were deeply healing. He knew the power of the sweat lodge and revered it.

“Our sweat lodge ceremonies are open to all,” says Jenna Drover, Bent Arrow’s communications supervisor. “It’s an opportunity for anyone seeking spiritual and emotional healing, to connect in a safe and welcoming space.”

Not all sweats are serious affairs. In northern Saskatchewan on a chilly fall day, an Elder was joined by four youngsters who were watched with care. After a short round, the flap was opened, and a pan of cooked saskatoon berries passed around. It was a happy time to watch the children dipping their big spoons in and slurping happily.

---

BENT ARROW TRADITIONAL HEALING SOCIETY

Parkdale School

11648 – 85 Street

780 481 3451