Sweat lodges are used in prayer and purification rituals across globe . Deaths raise concerns over non-Natives trying to adapt traditional ceremonies . Typical Native American sweat lodge used in ritual of prayer and purification . In a typical ritual , the leader of the sweat gathers four to 12 friends , family members or guests inside the structure , usually made of willow and covered with blankets or canvas , he said . Comment:
Sweat lodges are used in prayer and purification rituals across globe . Deaths raise concerns over non-Natives trying to adapt traditional ceremonies . Typical Native American sweat lodge used in ritual of prayer and purification . Comment: