Sweat Lodge Stories: Finding Peace and Connection in Uncomfortable Spaces

Firstly I would like to take a moment to recognise and thank Thomas and Pene for facilitating this event, sharing your knowledge and creating a safe space for us to gather. Thank you to Uncle Pat and whanau for bringing this medicine to New Zealand and sharing it with those whom you sit with and for carrying its legacy. "E rere ana nga tai o mihi"-The waves of thanks are flowing.

The journey to self-discovery often involves stepping out of our comfort zones and facing challenges that teach us the most profound lessons. My recent experience with a sweat lodge ceremony in Omaui was one such journey. From embracing discomfort to fostering a sense of community, this experience was transformative and enlightened me in unexpected ways.

Discovering the Sweat Lodge

Upon arriving at the location, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension. The sweat lodge is a traditional space used by the Indigenous peoples of the america's ( specifically the people from the Lakota nations in this circumstance) for healing and purification.

My apprehension was soon put to rest as Thomas and others welcomed us in and started to involve and inform us in the process of building the lodge and beautifing the alters.

We set about gathering natural resources for the process and once more of us arrived we set about the task of building the sweat lodge and gathering the grandfather stones for the fire. It was an inclusive process that allowed us to slowly become more familiar with each other, trade stories and settle into what lay ahead.

Embracing Discomfort

The ceremony started with sharing our intentions or prayers. Everyone voiced what drew them to the lodge: healing, peace, connection. Each intention was personal yet similar at the core. As the heat intensified, I faced discomfort. The steam wrapped around me like a heavy blanket, making it hard to breathe at times.

However, as the sweat poured from my skin, so did the walls I had built around my emotions. Each wave of discomfort revealed layers of stagnant energy and buried feelings that needed acknowledgment, reminding us that growth often requires us to confront our discomfort directly.

The Power of Community

In that space filled with like-minded individuals, I felt an incredible sense of kinship. We were all there to heal together, forging connections that transcended our individual struggles. Sharing vulnerability in a safe space is rare in our daily lives.

We laughed, shared stories, and sang together. This collective strength made each round in the lodge easier to endure. I left feeling more connected to others, showcasing the transformative power of community.

Omaui, Southland.

Reconnecting with Nature

Throughout the ceremony, I was reminded how essential nature is in our healing journeys. The sweat lodge pays homage to the earth. Sitting on the ground helped me connect not just with others but the elements around us.

After emerging from the lodge, I felt renewed. The fresh air and sounds of nature welcomed me. A profound sense of gratitude washed over me, underscoring how we often overlook our connection to the environment. The landscapes, sounds of the ocean and the view of rolling waves of Omaui became symbols of healing, reinforcing that we are part of something much larger.

Cultural Awareness and Perspective

One striking aspect of the sweat lodge ceremony was the importance of cultural understanding. Participating in this experience deepened my appreciation for the traditions and wisdom passed down by Indigenous peoples over generations. Although oceans may separate us, we are not so different in our cultural practices and what ties us to the natural world.

Leaving the ceremony, I feel a responsibility to integrate these values more deeply into my life. Awareness of different cultures enriches our experiences and broadens our perspectives, making us better stewards of both our communities and to the planet.

Tools for Life

Emerging from the sweat lodge felt like stepping into a new version of myself. I gained a sense of peace and actionable tools for navigating life's challenges. The discomfort I faced was not just physical; it served as a metaphor for everyday struggles.

Each inhale became a lesson in resilience, and every exhale released old patterns that no longer served me. I feel that I can now better approach uncomfortable situations with calm, adding these tools to my life’s toolbox and sharing them with others for collective transformation.

Family-Friendly Experience

What warmed my heart the most was the inclusivity of the experience. Our facilitator also hosted a lodge for all the children that were present, helping them understand the power of community, resilience, and healing early. Observing families share this beautiful experience made me hopeful about future generations integrating these lessons into their lives.

Together, we created cherished memories, reinforcing the notion that stepping into discomfort can lead to growth, healing, and deeper connections with ourselves and the world.

Reflecting on My Journey

My sweat lodge experience in Omaui led me down an unexpected path of beauty, connection, and invaluable lessons. I was reminded that growth often requires us to embrace discomfort. Surrounded by a supportive community, I rediscovered the vital importance of connection—with myself, with others, and with nature.

As I continue navigating life, the insights I gained will remain close to my heart, guiding my actions and encouraging me to share these values. Life is a journey of self-discovery, and together, we can face our discomforts and emerge peaceful, grounded, and empowered.

What growth and self discovery is lying just past your point of comfort? I invite you to push yourself to be uncomfortable and then find comfort in it....

"All my relations"

Nga Mihi Aroha,

Jade

Beautiful sweat lodge whanau- nga mihi 🍃💚