Sweat Lodge Ceremony
Hosted at Terra Nova Center
Terra Nova Center welcomes participants to take part in a traditional Sweat Lodge Ceremony, held on the land in a spirit of respect, cultural awareness, and community presence.
This ceremony is led by Yona FrenchHawk, a Cherokee Wisdom Keeper who carries this tradition with humility and integrity. The Sweat Lodge is a ceremonial structure representing the womb of Mother Earth — a place of purification, reflection, renewal, and reconnection to the natural world. Participants enter the lodge together in community, engaging in an ancient practice that honors the elements, the Earth, and the shared human journey. It is a traditional ceremonial experience rooted in Indigenous wisdom and held with respect for the lineage it comes from.
The day unfolds in three distinct parts:
Fire Ceremony - The sacred fire is built and tended. The stones that will be used in the lodge are heated in preparation. Participants are warmly encouraged to arrive early and be present for this portion of the ceremony, supporting the fire and the space as the foundation for the lodge is prepared.
Sweat Lodge - Participants gather at the lodge and enter together for the central ceremonial experience. The lodge is a heat-intensive environment designed to support purification, grounding, and connection to sacred traditions and nature.
Feast - Following the lodge, the community gathers for a shared meal. Participants bring a dish to contribute. The feast is a time of integration, fellowship, and gratitude.
Participants are welcome to attend any or all portions of the day. However, all those intending to enter the Sweat Lodge must arrive no later than 30 minutes prior to the scheduled lodge start time in order to properly prepare and receive orientation.
Participants will gather at the Lighthouse Chapel before walking approximately 5–10 minutes to the lodge site. The ceremony area is near the Medicine Wheel and other sacred spaces on the land. We ask that all participants move through these areas with mindfulness and respect.
Overnight Lodging & Camping
Overnight lodging and camping are available at Terra Nova Center when vacancies exist. Those traveling from a distance or wishing to remain on the land after the ceremony are welcome to inquire about accommodations. Please contact Terra Nova Center directly to check availability and make arrangements at 828-862-5909.
What to Expect
A structured, traditional ceremonial environment
A communal experience rooted in Indigenous practice
Periods of heat, darkness, silence, and shared reflection
Time outdoors on the land in all weather conditions
A shared meal following the ceremony
Participation requires presence, openness, and attentiveness to guidance provided by the ceremonialist.
What to Bring
Water bottle
Towel
Blanket or mat
Modest, comfortable clothing appropriate for high heat
Change of clothes for after ceremony
A potluck dish to share for the feast
Please do not bring:
Phones, cameras, or recording devices
Alcohol or intoxicants
Heavy meals immediately before the lodge
Synthetic clothing that may be uncomfortable in high heat
Health & Safety
The Sweat Lodge is a physically demanding, heat-intensive ceremonial experience. Individuals who are pregnant or who have cardiovascular, respiratory, or other medical conditions that may be impacted by heat should consult a medical professional before participating.
Participation is voluntary. Individuals are encouraged to listen to their bodies and step out if necessary. All participants are strongly encouraged to consume only light meals and to stay well hydrated throughout the day of the ceremony in preparation for the heat-intensive environment of the lodge.
Suggested Offering
A suggested donation of $40 is offered to support the Ceremonialist and should be given directly to the Yona on the day of ceremony. Donations to Terra Nova Center are also welcome. Contributions to the Center help sustain the land, facilities, and continued offering of traditional ceremonial spaces.
Traditional offerings such as sacred medicines, stones, or meaningful objects may be brought if desired and may be respectfully gifted to the Ceremonialist, offered to the fire tender, or placed upon the altar. Participants are also welcome to bring personal items they feel called to have present within the ceremonial space and may retrieve those items afterward for placement on their home altars or personal sacred spaces.
Learn More About the Ceremony
Full details can be found here:
https://www.terranovacenter.org/sweatlodgeceremony
Register for Sweat Lodge on 3/20/2026 by filling out the form below:
Receive Email Invitations for Upcoming Ceremonies
To be notified directly when future Sweat Lodge Ceremonies are scheduled, sign up here and reserve your space: