What is a Temazcal?
A temazcal is a traditional sweat lodge ritual, where we join together and to pray and heal the body, mind and spirit. The temazcal is both a structure and a ceremony. The structure represents the womb of Mother Earth. Inside, there is a hole, where hot volcanic rocks are placed during the ceremony. The hole is thought of as the belly button of the Mother Earth and the rocks are revered as “the grandmothers,” because of the ancient knoweldge that the rocks of the earth hold. The idea is that we enter the temazcal to die metaphorically inside so that we may be reborn when we leave.
There is a guide, who is refered to as a temazcalero who facilitates the ceremony with songs and teachings based in the cosmovision of the ancient Toltecs. An herbal tea made from herbs such as rue, rosemary and basil is put on the hot rocks to make a vapor rise. The vapor brings us more breath and more purity. Each guide has their own way of giving a temazcal so even if you have done one before, we invite you to try one again (and again and again).
Temazcals will typically have 4 rounds, or “doors.” Between each round, the door is opened and fresh air is let in.
Mentally, the temazcal is a place where we are tested to see our own strength. We are not in competion with anyone, only ourselves and our minds. It is a place where we train ourselves to see in the dark. The teachings of a temazcal are profound and will grow with you as you continue your practice of entering the temazcal.
Spiritually, the temazcal connects us with the many energies of being alive. We connect with the energies of the seven directions and of the 4 elements. We learn from the stories and teachings of ancient energies that the Toltecs worked with to bring balance to their lives.
A Temazcal ceremony also offers several physical benefits, including detoxification through sweating, improved blood circulation, and muscle relaxation. It can also aid in relieving stress.
This s a powerful way to connect with yourself, with the energies of the cosmos and with your prayers. While this practice is incredible weekly, we invite you to come as often or little as you can/feel called to.
We offer a weekly temazcal in the La Punta neighborhood of Puerto Escondido.
If you would like to join us, please contact me at +1510 495 5840 (number from California)
If you live in Puerto Escondido and would like to be added to our Whatsapp chat group to know all the updates and various shares about the temazcal, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/temazcalPE