The Inipi (sweat lodge) ceremony is an old original (native American) ceremony, which aims to cleanse the body and mind. The ceremony takes place in a dome-shaped structure of willow branches, which is covered with blankets. Hot stones are brought during the ceremony. We are in the dark as in the womb of Mother Earth. Together we sing and pray. The Inipi ceremony is a powerful ceremony that brings you to yourself and your natural connection to life, Mother Earth and restores the Great Mystery.

Moon Women

Women in their lunar (menstrual) period are welcome in our tradition but cannot participate in the sweat lodge ceremony. In the Lakota tradition, women are in fact already in the moon ceremony. The energy of the moon ceremony (water) does not fit with the sweat lodge ceremony (fire).

Facilitator

Kees Nieuwenhuyse of Wicahpi To Okalakiciye Wakan, an international spiritual organization in Switzerland where they work out of the Lakota tradition, is leading the ceremony. Kees was initiated and trained by Mary Thunder and by several other teachers and chiefs from this tradition. He has officially been allowed to lead the Inipi ceremony.

When: On Saturday afternoon at 12:00 noon we come together for a greeting and to get acquainted. We take time to explain the ceremony and give an opportunity to ask questions. Then we build the fire together and prepare ourselves for the ceremony. At around 17.00 hours, the ceremony will start, it takes about 1 to 2 hours. After the ceremony, we eat together and there is an opportunity to share our experiences. On Sunday morning we come together again at 9:00 AM,  the next ceremony begins at 10.00.

Expenses: In keeping with the tradition, the ceremonies are free of charge. However, we have our expenses, such as a flight of Kees (the facilitator) from Switzerland, firewood, stones and organizational costs. Therefore we ask a contribution of € 30, - per person. If the amount charged would be an objection to you, talk to us what contribution would be appropriate for you.

For people who want to attend both ceremonies, there is the possibility to stay overnight at Vlierhof.  (Camping €8/pp/day, dormitory €15/pp/day).

Participants bring along:

Furthermore, it is also important to consume no alcohol or drugs at least one day in advance.

Registration for the ceremony

Because we need time to organize for the food, it is necessary to register at least 3 days before the ceremony.

For more information about the sweat lodge ceremony and travel directions, click here...