In Navajo healing and purification rites, sandpaintings, along with herbs, prayers and songs, are used to cure and bless the sick. Composed of sand and crushed minerals in the five sacred colors, a sandpainting illustrates a story from Navajo legend whose hero emerges triumphant. Through the ceremony, the patient identifies with this hero and draws on his strength to restore health and balance.

Now, sandpainting themes are also used in rugs and affixed murals. These allow elements of the legends to be enjoyed in more permanent forms, but are never used ceremonially.