Just beyond Fallbrook Ave., the Native Spirit Lodge provides a convenient way to experience authentic Native American culture without leaving the neighborhood.  This store, which mainly acquires its products through trade with local tribes such as the Cree, Navajo and Lakota, sells objects intended to enrich customers with the native spirit and culture.  Each group contributes to the myriad of authentic objects sold at the store.  The Native Spirit Lodge hopes to intrigue customers of all ages with its unique products while dispelling stereotypes surrounding Native American culture.  Just as unique as the lodge itself is its fascinating manager, Greywolf.  A native of the Cree tribe, Greywolf is a storyteller who speaks at various schools in Southern California. He enriches customers with the history of his tribe and background on the culture.

Through his stories, Greywolf educates students of all ages with ancient folktales as well as stories of his own personal spiritual quests.

“Our intent is to help people experience what I call the native spirit,” said Greywolf.  “The Native American culture is based on spirituality.  Everything has a spirit.  Our tradition is also based on tolerance and respect.”

The best-sellers at the Spirit Lodge are the semiprecious stones such as turquoise, lapis lazuli and opal, which are used for both healing and aesthetic purposes.  Other popular items include wooden dream catchers of all sizes to ward off nightmares and books and art to aid spiritual practices.

Anyone who needs spiritual aid or guidance can find tranquility  in this unique shop, as the store offers a variety of healing and soothing products.  The Native Spirit Lodge is often frequented by people of Native American background looking to buy, sell or trade different homemade items.  Recently, the store has been gaining popularity with celebrities such as Bruno Mars, who recently purchased a six-foot totem pole to strengthen his own spirituality.

“Everything we sell in the store has a story and a purpose,” said Greywolf.  “All of the employees contribute by making some of the things we sell, like jewelry or dream catchers.”

The Native Spirit Lodge provides a unique alternative to mundane weekend outings at the movies or the pool.  At this unusual shop, students can look at beautiful jewelry and art while learning about a culture to which they may not have otherwise been exposed.