Traditionally, healers oversee various rituals, especially healing rituals. Their authority comes from their sacred journey, where they collect mountain soil. They dedicate themselves to understanding and explaining these rituals, which are often performed in special places such as the sauna.
In the sauna, there are two important elements, water and heat. The body sweats and the heat comes from the heated stones inside. Both water and fire act as cleansers in this sacred space. Outside the sauna, rituals can also take place in a Hogan, with an open fire lit from small juniper branches to provide warmth.
An important part of a ritual involves bathing at the ash pile. To maintain harmony, people are encouraged to cast their negativity away from the Hogan, about 40 or 50 yards from where the ashes come from the fire. This practice symbolizes the removal of negative energy, reinforcing the idea that fire has a cleansing effect just like water.
Understanding the significance of the ash is important; it symbolizes the cleansing fire that brings warmth and nourishment. When the ashes are moved east from the entrance to the Hogan, they set the scene for the cleansing ritual. Some misunderstandings arise when people label the ash pile as trash, but it serves a different spiritual purpose than trash, which is disposed of separately.
During the ash pile cleansing ritual, the individual sits facing east, using water to wash their hair and body. This ritual is intended to remove negativity from their mind, heart, and spirit. After the purification, they are encouraged to think positively and respect the sacredness of the places and rituals.
Participants are expected to recognize themselves as descendants of the Holy Ones, who expect them to strive for purity and growth. The path of beauty emphasizes the importance of prayer, as prayer is essential to traditional teachings. This purification process focuses on removing all negativity, paving the way for a new beginning.
Traditionally, a small turquoise bead is placed on a person, serving as a reminder of their new beginning. This ceremony is very unique, marking a significant transformation. The support of family during this time helps the individual maintain the sacredness of the intention of the ceremony.
While there may be modern adaptations to similar ceremonies, not everyone is able to participate in the traditional washing of ashes. These ceremonies traditionally take place in the spring, usually in late March or early April, symbolizing a new beginning after winter. Family members participate to help honor and maintain the sacredness of the experience.