The number of volcanic(preferably) rocks heated in the flames depends on the one who is pouring the water in the lodge and the type of sweat which is occurring.
The one who pours the water initiates the prayers and often sings songs. The steam rises from herbs and water poured on the grandfathers.
There are as many types of lodges today as there are those who pour the water for the sweats.
The rite of the sweat lodge utilizes all the Powers of the universe: earth and the things that grow from the earth, water, fire, and air.
When we use the water in the sweat lodge we should think of Spirit who is always flowing, giving power and life to everything. We should even be as water which is lower than all things, yet stronger even than the rocks.
The sweat lodge is made from twelve or sixteen young willows, and these too have a lesson to teach us, for in the fall their leaves die and return to the earth, but in the spring they come to life again. So too, men die but live again in the real world, where there is nothing but the spirits of all things.
The willows which make the frame of the sweat lodge are set up in such a way that they mark the four quarters of the universe; thus, the whole lodge is the universe in an image, and the two-legged, four-legged, and winged peoples, and all the things of the world are contained within it.
The rocks represent Grandmother Earth, from whom all fruits come, and they also represent the indestructible and everlasting nature of spirit.
The fire which is used to heat the rocks represents the great power of Spirit which gives life to all things.
The round fireplace at the center of the sweat lodge is the center of the universe, in which dwells Spirit, with power which is the fire.
About ten paces from the lodge, There is constructed a sacred fireplace, and this is where the rocks are heated. As we place the rocks and light the fire, we pray.
A round hole is made at the center of the sweat lodge, and with the dirt which is taken out a sacred path is made leading out of the lodge, and at the end of this path a small mound is built.
After smudging all who are to be purified enter the lodge, the leader first, and each bows low to enter.
During the course of the sweat the door is usually opened four times, letting in the light. This is to remind us of the four ages, and how through the goodness of spirit we have received the Light in each of these ages.
The leader now sprinkles water on the rocks. This is usually done with a dipper and sage, sweet grass, or other herbs are used, so that the steam will be fragrant.
It is now very hot in the lodge, but it is good to feel the purifying qualities of the fire, the air, and the water, and to smell the fragrance of the sacred herbs. After this powers have worked well into us, the door of the lodge is thrown open.
During each round there are prayers, songs etc depending on the type of lodge and tradition.
Moving around sun-wise, the leader leaves the lodge after the last round and all those attending follow.
When we leave the sweat lodge we are as the souls which are kept, and which return to spirit after they have been purified; for we too, leave behind in the lodge all that is impure.
