- The community begins by gathering food, water, and firewood for the ceremony.
- A lodge or sacred sweat house is constructed for the ceremony.
2. Purification Rituals:
- Participants engage in purification rituals, such as sweating and bathing, to cleanse themselves physically and spiritually.
3. Opening Ceremony:
- The ceremony begins with an opening ritual led by a spiritual leader or medicine man.
- Participants may pray, sing, and offer tobacco or other sacred items as a sign of respect and gratitude.
4. Sun Dance Lodge Construction:
- A ceremonial sun dance lodge is erected using tree trunks, branches, and animal hides.
- The lodge has an opening facing east to symbolize the rising sun.
5. Fasting and Thirsting:
- Participants abstain from food and water during the sun dance.
- This physical challenge represents purification and sacrifice to the Great Spirit.
6. Praying and Dancing:
- Throughout the sun dance, participants engage in continuous prayer and dancing.
- They may use eagle feathers, rattles, and drums as ceremonial instruments.
- The dance symbolizes a connection with the divine and the cycles of nature.
7. Sun Gazing:
- At specific times during the dance, participants briefly look directly at the sun, symbolizing courage and connection with the Great Spirit.
8. Spiritual Teachings:
- During the ceremony, spiritual leaders share teachings and guidance on personal growth, healing, and community unity.
9. Piercing Ritual:
- Some sun dances include piercing rituals, where participants pierce their skin or attach objects to their bodies.
- These acts are done as a form of sacrifice and a demonstration of devotion.
10. Breaking the Fast:
- After several days, the ceremony ends with a breaking of the fast.
- Participants feast and hydrate, symbolizing the end of the physical challenge.
11. Closing Ceremony:
- The sun dance concludes with a closing ritual led by the spiritual leader.
- Participants express gratitude for the blessings and guidance received during the ceremony.
12. Community Celebration:
- The community often celebrates with dances, feasts, and storytelling.
- The sun dance serves as a time of spiritual renewal, healing, and strengthening of communal bonds.