History: Canada and United States Sweat Lodge (Tradition and practices)

Rituals and traditions associated with sweating vary regionally and culturally. Ceremonies often include traditional prayers and songs. In some cultures drumming and offerings to the spirit world may be part of the ceremony, or a sweat lodge ceremony may be a part of another, longer ceremony such as a Sun Dance. Some common practices and key elements associated with sweat lodges include:

Training - Most cultures that hold ceremonial sweats require that someone go through intensive training for many years to be allowed to lead a lodge. One of the requirements is that the leader be able to pray and communicate fluently in the indigenous language of that culture, and that they understand how to conduct the ceremony safely. This leadership role is granted by the Elders of the community, not self-designated.

Orientation – The door may face a sacred fire. The cardinal directions may have symbolism in the culture that is holding the sweating ceremony. The lodge may be oriented within its environment for a specific purpose. Placement and orientation of the lodge within its environment are often considered to facilitate the ceremony's connection with the spirit world, as well as practical considerations of usage.

Construction – The lodge is generally built with great care, and with respect for the environment and for the materials being used. Many traditions construct the lodge in complete silence, some have a drum playing while they build, and other traditions have the builders fast during construction.
Clothing – In Native American lodges participants usually wear a simple garment such as shorts or a loose dress.

Support – In many traditions, one or more persons will remain outside the sweat lodge to protect the ceremony, assist the participants, and aid lodge etiquette. Sometimes they will tend the fire and place the hot stones, if it is a structure that uses stones, though usually this is done by a designated firekeeper.

Darkness - Many traditions consider it important that sweats be done in complete darkness.

Etiquette 

The most important part of sweat lodge etiquette is respecting the traditions of the culture in question. It is important to know what is allowed and expected before entering a lodge. Traditional Peoples usually place a high value on modesty. Women are usually expected to wear skirts and t-shirts, or short-sleeved dresses of a longer length. In some traditions, nudity is forbidden, as are mixed sex sweats. Some lodge leaders do not allow menstruating women. Perhaps the most important piece of etiquette is gratitude. It is important to be thankful to the purpose of the sweat, the people joining you in the lodge, and those helping to support the sweat lodge.