A sweat lodge is a small, enclosed structure used for ceremonial steam baths, primarily in various Indigenous cultures of North America. It is typically made from natural materials like wood and covered with blankets or tarps. Participants enter the lodge to experience intense heat and humidity, which is believed to promote physical and spiritual cleansing. During a sweat lodge ceremony, heated stones are placed in a pit at the center, and water infused with herbs is poured over them to create steam. This practice is often accompanied by prayers, songs, and sharing of personal stories, fostering a sense of community and connection among participants.