Colon hydrotherapy is a method of cleansing the large intestine with a gentle stream of purified water. Detoxifying the body through colon cleansing is not a new idea. It's been practiced in one form or another for thousands of years. But thanks to new advances in technology, it's reached an optimal level of hygiene, convenience, safety and comfort.

No. While both methods use water to cleanse the colon, colon hydrotherapy has several significant advantages. Unlike an enema, it doesn't require toilet facilities; waste is eliminated directly into the drain line while the client lies on a massage-type table. Colon hydrotherapy provides an extensive cleansing of the entire length of the colon, whereas an enema briefly cleanses the lower one-third of the colon. The pressure and rate of flow is far milder in colon hydrotherapy. The gentle action of warm water under mild pressure, in conjunction with skillful colon massage, accounts for the impressive results achieved in colon hydrotherapy.

A gentle stream of water is repeatedly infused into the colon through a small rectal tube, and then eliminated. The therapist monitors water temperature and pressure according to the patient's needs. A session generally lasts between one and one and a half hours.

The client rests comfortably on a table while the therapist performs a relaxing abdominal massage. Some pressure is felt during infusion or elimination, but most clients report little or no discomfort.

Your colon performs the vital functions of absorbing water and minerals from digested food, and eliminating waste. It is approximately 5-6 feet long, 2.5 inches in diameter and is composed of three muscle layers, nerves, blood vessels, and mucous membrane lining. Rhythmic muscle contractions move waste from one end to the other for elimination. A diet high in refined foods, excessive fats, low water intake and fiber, and lack of exercise all contribute to disrupting full and complete waste elimination. Consequently, the colon becomes sluggish, overloaded and toxic, as waste accumulates in its folds and crevices. This polluted environment becomes a fertile breeding ground for a host of harmful bacteria and yeast, whose by-products contribute to the toxic load. As these poisons are slowly re-absorbed into the bloodstream, vitality and energy are depleted, and a whole array of seemingly unrelated symptoms appear. Colon hydrotherapy is designed to gently wash away the build-up of debris, excessive mucus, overgrowth of yeast and harmful bacteria, restoring the colon to health. The alternating warm and cool water stream and massage can help to restore proper nerve function and muscle tone, restoring proper elimination.

Absolutely! The controlled water pressure used in colon hydrotherapy is much lower (and therefore, safer and more comfortable!) than most hospital enemas. An extensive filtration system ensures that the water which enters the body is free of chemicals and contaminants. Most importantly, the equipment features disposable speculae and tubing to prevent patient-to-patient contamination.

Your colon therapist will help you determine the exact number of treatments for your specific needs. However, an initial series of three to six treatments is often recommended.

Most people feel fine to return to normal activities following a treatment. In the first 15-20 minutes, it is not uncommon to have to use the restroom to eliminate a bit of residual water, but other than that, you can be free to continue your activities.

Although some people like to combine a cleansing diet or juice fast while doing colonics, it is not necessary in order to get a good treatment. If you would like to combine your treatments with a cleanse for additional benefits, talk to our colon therapist Shauna for more ideas. You may however want to eat lighter on the day of your treatment.

Everyone who desires to cleanse their intestines via colon hydrotherapy will each have their own individual needs for cleansing and detoxification. A general recommendation is to have a short series of at least 3 treatments in close proximity; spaced evry 3-5 days, if possible. Other people can benefit from a longer series, especially if they have a long standing history of constipation, gas, bloating, candida, irritable bowel symptoms, years of poor eating, etc.

Periodic colon cleansing helps to eliminate toxins and maintain beneficial flora, and encourages healthy peristalsis (muscle movement) of the colon. Colon hydrotherapy is an important component of a health-maintenance program in addition to a diet which includes ample amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains, regular exercise, and a positive attitude. In today's environment, where exposure to chemicals in the air and food is an increasing concern to many people, cleansing the colon of excess toxins contributes to health and longevity.