Hau !
Hey Folks ! Thanks for checking this out.
Bent Tree is what I call my little patch of Land in Limestone county.
The address is: 22791 Bill Walker Road, Athens AL 35613
My phone # is: 256-431-9357
It is in an unrestricted zone and there are quite a few trailers and such in the neighborhood and surrounding area. It is very much like what would be called “primitive camping” now.
The land is sloped and rocky so bring comfortable hiking-type footwear (and walking sticks if you like) - you may not want to go barefoot since the soil is so rocky. There is a hose with running water, but no power.
Food should probably be in a cooler or not need refrigeration. this includes the food to share for feasts that follow ceremonies.
Please don't be discouraged by the presence of a derelict trailer and shed on the grounds - they had to be abandoned for a good reason. The old trailer and the shed are on the dangerous-side now and are to be avoided.
There are neighbors and such, so it is possible there maybe some noise or other possible distractions that we may have to tune out.
The trail to the Sacred Area is around the South end of the trailer and Westward down the hill.
Be ready for a lot of smudging (cleansing with smoke from special herbs). Please get smudged before entering the Sacred Area.
No Children under 14 or Dogs - at this time please.
What people probably need to bring
drinking water
unflavored all-natural tobacco
a light towel to take in
a heavy towel for drying off afterwards
a change of clothes
ca$h to chip in on supplies
? drums & rattles ?
prayer tie makings
modest sweat attire
food: dish-to-pass & snacks
flashlights & headlamps
blankets & other camping items
lighters/matches
first aid stuff
sobriety: at least the day of the Ceremony - and the day before - and the day after. Some traditions are more strict about this - check your own Heart.
- Women who are menstruating, are about to begin, or are just completing their monthly menstruation are welcome - but should not participate in the sweat, touch the Sacred Pipe, or handle Feast food.
- Please leave cellphones in vehicles (unless there is a specific unusual need).
- Please do not walk between fire and Lodge when fire is lit - unless you have to or forget, in which case please say “Mitakuye Oyasin”. The Fire-Keeper(s) and Water Pourer can cross the “spirit trail” as needed, but they also need to acknowledge All of Their Relations when they do so.
- Please, no cigarette smoking around fire or Lodge after fire is lit.
- Please minimize profanity and gossip.
- Please try not to leave during a round.
- Please do not wear contact lenses, make up, perfume, or metal jewelry.
- Please try not to eat a heavy meal right before the sweat.
Please dress modestly for all ceremony events. Clothes should be loose-fitting.
- Women are asked to wear a flowing skirt that completely covers your knees as well as a shirt that covers your shoulders.
- Men should wear long shorts or sweat pants for Lodge and a loose-fitting T-shirt or tank top.
Even people, who are experienced with sweats, and attending a sweat led by a properly-trained and reputable practitioner, could suddenly experience problems due to health issues. If you trust your doctor and they have told you to refrain from using a hot tub or sauna because of a health condition you should consult the doctor or their nurse practitioner before participating in a sweat. Note, if you have a respiratory condition or allergies: in addition to hot steam, you will be exposed to smoke from the fire pit used to heat the rocks and smudges used in the ceremony. If you have no physician directed restrictions but have a chronic health condition, phobias, get anxiety attacks or are pregnant you should let the ceremonial leader know before the sweat starts so that they are aware and if needed provide special instructions for you.
