What exactly is colonic hydrotherapy?

Colonics hydrotherapy is a naturopathic treatment designed to rid the body of harmful toxins and unnecessary waste. Warm filtered water is pumped into the colon using disposable tubing to dislodge trapped waste and faecal matter. A treatment usually lasts around an hour (around 60 litres of water are used) and you can resume normal activities straight afterwards.

Why would someone have the treatment?

This can vary from person to person. Often it is for genetic reasons (some people have an extended colon and have difficulty going to the loo) while others have a pattern of constipation which does not respond to laxatives. Often, people are suffering from the effects of high stress levels, lack of exercise, or poor diet. They find that colonic irrigation gets their bowel movements back to normal, helping them to manage their health better. Trapped waste can cause fatigue, headaches, skin woes and overall feelings of negativity.

Does everyone benefit from treatment?

I believe so – if a client is having problems with their gut, which can be from skin issues to digestion, a colonic will help with this. Many clients report an overwhelming sense of wellbeing following a treatment.

What does it feel like?

At the start of the procedure, you may experience a sensation of wanting to go to the loo, but this usually passes within the first few minutes. We use special massage techniques on your tummy to stimulate the release of stored matter – this is a gentle massage and the whole procedure should not be painful, more like a gentle internal massage.

Is it true a colonic can help with weight loss?

While I never weigh my clients, most people do feel lighter after a colonic. It is not unusual to eliminate between six to 12 pounds of waste over a series of four to five treatments. In addition, if a client has been ingesting food to which they are intolerant (resulting in it being trapped in the body) then it is likely the body will lose weight in the form of expelled toxins and water.

What are the other benefits?

A colonic can clarify the skin (the skin is an excretory organ, meaning the likes of acne and rosacea can be triggered by trapped toxins), improve mood and wellbeing, increase energy and result in a flatter tummy.

Lastly – is it safe?

Yes – just make sure that your therapist is a registered hydrotherapist or a member of ARCH (The Association of Registered Colon Hydrotherapists). And yes, the procedure itself is safe – at Naturality, we use a low water pressure system that doesn’t cause any bowel damage and disposable tubing is used for maximum hygiene.