The Sacred Path Program - What We Teach
The Sacred Hoop Workshops and SeminarsTM utilize the indigenous methods of our ancestors in combination with modern holistic and therapeutic health practices to create a truly one of a kind powerful experience. These time tested sacred teachings are now available to you at The Sacred Path Spiritual Recovery Program.
Prayer Lodge
The prayer lodge or "purification lodge" is utilized by most Native American cultures as a means of detoxifying the body and for spiritual refuge. It is believed to be a place of physical healing and spiritual guidance. The lodge is constructed of willow and is set into the ground forming a circle with the opening facing the east. The lodge is then covered and heated lava rocks are placed in the center. The experience is much like a sauna. There are four sessions that are completed during this ceremony, one for each of the four directions. Time spent inside the lodge is used for prayer, meditation, and to seek out answers or directions from ancestors.Only those given proper authority are able to conduct a prayer lodge and those people must remain worthy of this privilege.
Medicine Wheel
The medicine Wheel is used for personal reflection and for balancing the four quadrants of our being (spiritual, emotional, physical, and mental). A large circle is created on the ground and is divided into four sections. Each section has a special meaning. Healing energy from the four directions is used to help realign and reconnect oneself. Participants are taught how to set and attain goals in their lives without upsetting the balance. This part of the Sacred Path experience is crucial for optimal outcome from the program.
Inventory and Processing
Journaling while enrolled in our program is essential to helping one identify breakthroughs during the Sacred Path process. We also use writing as a tool to help individuals inventory past experiences that have broken their sacred hoop or traumatized them enough to cause them to veer off course in life.
Writing also helps facilitate in healing the individual
Solo Quests
Solo quests are usually done periodically during the medicine wheel process as a means of focusing the individual . Outside distractions often impede progress in many programs. The natives used solo quests (also called vision quests) as a means of getting closer to the Creator and for help with deep questions that may be burdening them. An individual is taken to a quiet and peaceful designated area where they remain alone for a period of time. This is a special time of healing and communing that usually allows for tremendous breakthroughs in peoples recovery and comprehension.
Prayers and Offerings
Prayers and offerings are an important part of the inventory process. It teaches participants how to materialize and release personal information gathered by each individual as well as the concept of "givers gain". In native culture when a person visits an elder of their tribe it is appropriate to bring a gift as a sign of respect and appreciation for the wisdom that he shares with you. We use the same practice when addressing the Creator with our needs and wants. Throughout the Sacred Path experience you will be taught many traditional ways to give small offerings with your prayers so as to show respect and appreciation for your Creator . This is especially powerful because it helps participants begin to feel grateful for things they often took for granted.
OTHER ACTIVITIES AVAILABLE
Fire Circle
The fire circle and feather meetings are great forums for sharing ones feelings and for helping others feel that they are not alone.
Arts and Crafts
Being creative is not only fun, but it is therapeutic as well. We teach native crafts such as gourd carving, making a medicine bag, beadwork, or any medium our participants find an interest in. Science has shown endorphins are released when people are engaged in creative activities allowing them to feel calmer and more positive about their recovery.
Drumming
The native drum is sacred to the Native American people. It is believed to represent the heartbeat of our Mothers . When we were in our mother's womb we were close to her heart and we felt safe and protected. As adults we are taken back to that safe time in our lives through the drum beat and the wonderful traditional songs that are sung. The drum is yet another tool that aids in reconnecting ones spirit and feeling the unity of the group working as a whole.
Equine Therapy
The four leggeds are particularly prized by the natives for their many special attributes. For that reason the horse is held in high regards to the native people. The horse can teach us many things if we choose to listen. Our equine program offers participants a unique experience to see things from a different perspective and to help them connect with the four legged in a way they would never have thought possible. Truly understanding this concept can be life altering for people.
Fitness
Our staff is dedicated to helping people become fit in all aspects of their life. Trained professionals are on hand to help participants create a personal fitness routine that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.
We look forward to meeting you, and helping you progress in the Sacred Path. Feel free to explore everything we have to offer, and to ask any questions regarding our services.
