Why The Native American Dance Stick Is Important.

Native American dance sticks and dancing have always formed a central part of Native American tribal life. There are quite a few elements that go into a successful dance. Music from drums and flutes, of course, is very important. However, Native American dance sticks are also integral to different dances. These decorated dance sticks add a visual touch to the dance, and are specific to the ceremony. American Indians use dances for healing, to honor the fallen, and in times past, when going on the warpath. Dance sticks were made for each of these ceremonies. 

Nearly every Native American tribe made dance sticks. Dance sticks were made for specific purposes within each individual tribe. Dance sticks are generally made of a length of wood with a section of antler on one or both ends. Prayers that are being sent to the Great Spirit are represented by particular feathers used. Representative of a tribe or individual, the colors used for a dance stick are chosen carefully. Animal skulls were sometimes used to embellish the dance sticks. Being passed down throughout generations, Native American dance sticks are sometimes heirlooms. Although Indian dance sticks were used for war dances, there was another very important purpose. 

These sticks were used to honor a departed horse. The bond between the Native American and his horse was a strong one, and not even death could sever it completely. When preparing the dance stick for the tribute to the horse, an additional decoration was added. Hair from the horse's tail or mane was used to embellish the stick in order to ensure that the prayers of the warrior were directed to the horse. The healing ceremony is still a vital part of Native American tribal life. To better direct the healing energies, a shaman or medicine man will often use a dance stick. The decorations on the stick have all been chosen for specific beneficial properties. 

A shaman will use a dance stick for both a healing dance and meditation. Sometimes a medicine bag was attached to a healing dance stick as well. Used for meditation as well as dancing, the Native American dance stick can be enjoyed by anyone. These beautifully decorated sticks will also add a natural touch to any room's decor. The bright colors and detailed decorations will make these dance sticks a treasured addition to the home. They will go perfectly with country decor as well as Southwest style decorating. A cabin or vacation home can be cheered and brightened by a display of dance sticks and they can add a touch of color and interest to a minimalist modern setting as well. View our complete Native American Dance Sticks gallery.

See Other Native American Dance Sticks.