The Temazcal
The Temazcal
“A temazcal ([temasˈkal]) is a type of sweat lodge which originated with pre-Hispanic Indigenous peoples in Mesoamerica. The word temazcal comes from the Nahuatl or Aztec word temāzcalli [temaːsˈkalːi] (“house of heat”), or possibly from the words teme (to bathe) and calli (house).
In ancient Mesoamerica it was used as part of a curative ceremony to purify the body after exertion such as after a battle or a ceremonial ball game. It was also used for healing the sick, improving health, and for women to give birth. It continues to be used today in Indigenous cultures of Mexico and Central America, for spiritual and health reasons, as well as a cleansing of mind, body and spirit.The temazcal is usually a permanent structure, unlike sweat lodges in other regions. It is usually constructed from volcanic rock and cement and is usually a circular dome, although rectangular ones have been found at certain archeological sites.”
The Temazcal or “House of Heat” at Re-Green is a small Round-House built with Earth and Straw, that is being heated by two efficient wood stoves, a Rocket Mass Heater and a Rocket Stove, whilst the Tadelakt interior walls provide a soft & velvet touch. It’s the place where our guests are offered the opportunity to “sweat it out”! Very similar to Native American sweat lodge, it’s a challenge and an opportunity. Having experienced a proper sweat lodge ritual and it’s benefits, we wanted to build one in our land and share this amazing healing practice. You don’t only sweat the toxins out of the body, but it’s a spiritual practice for reflection and introspection. Symbolically we enter the womb of Mother Earth, and come out clean and reborn! Don’t be hesitant if your feet get sandy and muddy. The earth will hold you with love and make this indigenous high technology technique of “sweating it out” really worth trying.
