The dancers attached themselves to the centre pole by piercing their body (usually in the chest and/or back), with bone or wood skewers that were attached to a rope, that was attached to the centre pole. This form of self torture was considered highly honourable because the dancers were suffering with bodily pain so the others in the tribe would not have to endure famines, wars or diseases. After the 1880's the ceremony was discouraged; but now, the Indian department and the churches do not interfere and Sun Dances are being performed, but normally without body piercing. (Glenbow)