Another sweat lodge alumna describes attending several sweats since she was a child, ranging from “a ceremony led ritual in a tee pee on Hawaii, to a dome made of wood with steam piping in from an outside fire in the backwoods of Oregon.” For those considering a sweat in the future, she offers one simple, yet solid, piece of advice: “Go with intention.”

As with anything in life, you’re bound to encounter the authentic – and the fraudulent – on your search for the perfect sweat lodge. Just remember that the right experience for youdepends on what you personally want to get out of it.

If you’re primarily interested in finding a healthful, physically detoxifying experience (and don’t mind spending a decent chunk of change), there are several variations on the traditional practice that range in intensity and cost. Experts recommend consulting friends who have participated in sweats, and asking detailed questions about the lodge location you’re considering, the leader, and the host organization’s policies and procedures. And most importantly, make sure there are licensed health professionals and emergency resources on hand at all times.

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