What is Colon Hydrotherapy?
Also known as colonic irrigation, colonic, colon lavage or high colonic, Colonic Hydrotherapy is a safe, effective method of cleansing the colon of waste material by gentle, repeated flushing with water.
What is the purpose of having a colonic?
Waste material can build up in our colon and the muscular action of the colon can be diminished resulting in constipation and inadequate bowel movements. Whilst our body is very well adapted and able to deal with the consequences of our modern lifestyle, sometimes the delicate balance can be affected by diet, stress and health. This doesn’t just apply to our colon, and we are not suggesting that a colonic is the answer to all health issues. We always encourage a healthy balanced diet along with rest and exercise as the basis towards good health. It is a fact however, that many people suffer with bowel problems and there are many drugs that are regularly used to treat symptoms of bowel problems. Colonic Hydrotherapy is an effective way of removing waste matter by using the gentle introduction of water into the bowel which stimulates the muscle to contract thus emptying itself.
Suppose I have been suffering from constipation for a long time, will colonics help?
In many cases constipation can be successfully treated with natural, harmless techniques, including the use of colonics. There are three factors involved in having a well functioning colon: diet & hydration, exercise and emotions. All three must be balanced for the colon to function well. The process of Colonic Hydrotherapy is an aid for cleansing and healing the colon sufficiently so that changes in diet, exercise, and attitude are then able to manifest the desired results. Many people find the relief provided by colonics inspires motivation and enthusiasm to institute positive changes in their lifestyle.
How long does a colonic take?
A colon hydrotherapy session take about 45 minutes. It could also be shorter or longer than that, based upon the judgment of the therapist and your individual wishes. Additional time will be required before the colonic for the therapist to go over your medical history. At a first colonic appointment you should expect to spend an hour and a half at the clinic.
How will I know when the colon is empty?
It will probably never be completely empty, as it is an organ in continuous use. The objective should not be an empty colon, but rather a well functioning colon.
Are colonics habit forming?
No. A colon therapist who is dedicated to your health, will encourage you to set a goal of having a well-functioning colon. It may take a little while before your next bowel movement after a good colonic. This is when people think they are becoming "dependent" on colonics since it may take some time for faecal material to occupy the colon once again. Dietary and lifestyle changes may be necessary to ensure long lasting and vital health. Colonic hydrotherapy, unlike the use of laxatives, is not habit forming and actually improves the tone of the colon.
Will a colonic make me constipated or give me diarrhoea?
The most frequent post-colonic experience is to have a slight delay in bowel movements and then a resumption of a somewhat larger, easier to move stool. Sometimes there may be no bowel movement for some days following a colonic. However this is quite normal and should be interpreted as such. Very infrequently diarrhoea or loose bowels may be experienced. If this should occur, it is usually of very short duration. If you are at all concerned do contact your therapist.
Will it be ok to eat after a colonic?
We suggest that you eat at your normal meal time, and consume a moderate amount of whatever seems gentle and nourishing to you. Just as it doesn't make sense to have you car cleaned and then immediately drive it through mud, eating a meal known to cause trouble in your abdomen directly after a colonic isn't an intelligent choice. Steamed or cooked vegetables, salads, vegetable soups or broths, fruit, or juices are the best choice.
Is a colonic painful?
Very rarely there is more than a minor and transient discomfort experienced by some people. If you feel uncomfortable in any way, please tell your therapist. Occasionally the colon may contract and give a colicky sensation but such episodes are usually brief and easily tolerated. The colonic irrigation procedure itself does not cause pain. At the start of the procedure, you may experience a “strange” sensation of wanting to go to the toilet, but most people get used to this feeling in the first few minutes, and even find the colonic treatment “unexpectedly relaxing and uplifting”.
Is it safe?
Being an essentially natural process, there is virtually no danger with a colonic. Our intent is to provide a safe, healthy and worry free service. The water is introduced at a low gentle pressure, so there is no danger of bowel perforation. The majority of therapists use disposable equipment; some use hospital-grade autoclave.
Will I lose weight?
You may lose some weight. Most people feel lighter after a colonic. Just bear in mind that you lose waste only, not fat or cellulite. If you start eating less, increase your fibre intake, move or exercise more, chew better and drink more water, then you will achieve a permanent weight loss.
What will I feel after the treatment?
After a colonic, you should be able to continue with your daily plans, drive, go back to work etc. Some people feel energised straight away, some feel tired “in a nice way” - in the same way as one feels tired after a good workout, some feel lighter, some feel very hungry, some don’t feel like eating for hours afterwards. Some may feel quite tired as the detoxification process kicks in deeper, and in these instances we recommend coming for a repeat colonic.