When I first transitioned to a mostly plant-based diet, I experienced some unpleasant side effects. After consulting a few medical professionals, the consensus was my body was detoxifying rapidly. When those same professionals suggested a colonic, I decided to give it a shot.
Colonics can be controversial. There are some who believe they are unnecessary. Others consider them to be complementary to a healthy lifestyle. I fall into the latter category and get a colonic once a month. Since I’m very open about these things, I figure why not give a rundown to help people make an informed decision.
Please note I’m describing the Wood’s Gravity Method, or closed system, colonic.
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What’s a colonic?
In short, a colonic is when the colon is flushed with water. The water soaks the large intestine, loosens toxic waste, and eliminates the waste as the water is released.
The benefits of a colonic
The reported benefits of colonics are to:
- Eliminate gas and bloating
- Relieve constipation
- Remove toxic build up
- Support the immune system
- Clear up skin breakouts and rashes
- Promote a healthy gut microbiome
Above all else, a colonic is a purification technique. It’s been around for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptian medical text the “Ebers Papyrus” from 1500 BC details the benefits of colonics. While doing my advanced yoga teacher training, I read about colonics in the “Hatha Yoga Pradipika”, a Sanskrit text from the 15th century. What I’m trying to say is this isn’t some new trend or fad.
My typical appointment
3 days before my appointment, I avoid acidic foods, like meat, to make the session as effective as possible. On the day of, I stop eating 3 hours before, and I stop drinking water 1 hour before. When I get there, I greet my colon hydrotherapist, Leona, who’s a good friend of mine by now. I go into the bathroom to remove my pants, underwear and socks. There’s a towel on the warming rack, which I wrap around my waist. When I go back into the treatment room, I lay down on the table and turn onto my left side.
Leona selects the appropriate sized speculum and gently inserts it. Yes, this part used to be awkward, but now I’m over it. Then she jiggles the tube a bit to get out any gas before starting the water flow. It might be just water or an infusion to support a productive treatment. Some of these include chlorophyl, coffee, hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal, and grapefruit seed extract.
When the water goes in, there’s a feeling of fullness. As the water’s released, the sensations vary from feeling nothing to feeling like “omg, where’s the toilet?!”. The strangest part is feeling like you have to go to the bathroom, yet not actually using a bathroom.
All the while, Leona does acupressure and massage using essential oils to aid the release of toxins. She always makes me feel at ease, whether it’s by placing a hot towel on my lower back or chatting with me about anything and everything.
My colonic results
What surprised me most was how much better I felt emotionally after the first session. After 2 sessions, my digestion had noticeably improved. By the 3rd session, my skin was glowing. I continue to get them monthly as I feel great. Remember, these are my own personal results, and everyone’s experiences will vary.
I hope this post helps you decide whether colonics are right for you. If you live in the Northern New Jersey area, I highly recommend Leona at Lavage Colonics in Montclair, NJ.
What are your thoughts on colonics? Share your opinion below.