After a colonic procedure, it’s common for people to have varying experiences. Here’s an overview of what your day might look like following a colonic:

1. Immediately after the procedure: You will be encouraged to spend time in the bathroom at the Wellness center to allow gravity to aid in releasing any additional waste that did not move while you were on the treatment table. You may feel lighter and experience relief from any discomfort or bloating you were experiencing before the colonic. Some individuals also report feeling relaxed or energized. While many people have an improved sense of wellbeing after their colonic appointment, some may experience common symptoms of detoxification (e.g. headache, nausea) and may want to rest after their appointment. 
2. Hydration: While the colonic procedure will hydrate your body, it’s important to continue to drink plenty of water after a colonic to maintain hydration. 
3. Rest and relaxation: Some people find it valuable to rest and relax after a colonic procedure, while some are energized and ready to tackle a workout. Results and outcomes are different for each individual.
4. Light meals: Stick to light, easily digestible meals for the remainder of the day. This can include foods like soups, broths, steamed vegetables, fresh fruits, and lean proteins. Avoid heavy, greasy, or difficult-to-digest foods that may put stress on your digestive system.
5. Gentle activity: Engage in gentle physical activities if you feel up to it. Light stretching, yoga, or a leisurely walk can help promote circulation and support digestion.
6. Monitoring your body’s response: Pay attention to any changes or reactions your body may have after the colonic procedure. While colon hydrotherapy is generally safe and  it’s common to feel lighter and relieved, it’s essential to be aware of any prolonged discomfort or unusual symptoms. If you have any concerns, contact your colon hydrotherapist and/or healthcare provider.
7. Follow-up care: Depending on the specific instructions provided by your colon hydrotherapist, you may have additional post-procedure care requirements. This could include dietary recommendations, taking probiotics, or scheduling any follow-up appointments. Follow these instructions diligently to support your recovery.

Remember, individual experiences may vary, and it’s important to listen to your body’s needs. If you have any specific concerns or questions about your post-colonic care, reach out to your colon hydrotherapist and/or healthcare provider for guidance. 

A colonic speculum is a hollow plastic tube that is introduced into the rectum for the purpose of colon cleansing. At Living Arts Wellness, we only use sterile, factory sealed, disposable speculums. Here is a closeup of what our a colonic speculum looks like:

The speculum  insertion process may vary slightly depending on the client’s preferences and anatomy, but here is a general description of the process:

1. Preparation: Before the insertion, you will be asked to lie on the treatment table on your left side, bringing your right knee toward your chest. Your therapist will provide you with a drape to cover yourself if needed.
2. Lubrication: Your therapist will apply an organic castor oil to the tip of the disposable speculum to facilitate insertion and minimize discomfort.
3. Insertion: You will have the choice to insert the speculum yourself, or give permission for your colon hydrotherapist to assist you with the insertion of the speculum. The insertion will be done with care to minimize discomfort. The practitioner will ask you to take deep breaths to help with relaxation and ease of insertion. All bodies are different and your therapist will work with you to select a speculum insertion strategy that works for your individual anatomy.
4. Depth and position: The disposable speculum is inserted about 2-3 inches in the rectum. Once the speculum is inserted, two tubes will be connected to the speculum: (1) will introduce clean water into the colon, (2) will carry waste from the colon through the viewing tube in the colonic irrigation instrument and out to the sewer. The therapist will position it in a way that allows water to flow into the colon effectively.
5. Water flow: Once the colonic speculum is properly positioned and the tubes are connected, you will return to lying on your back, and water is gradually introduced into the colon to begin your colon hydrotherapy session.

You are encouraged to discuss the speculum insertion procedure with your therapist beforehand to ensure you understand the process and feel comfortable with it.

You can expect to be educated, supported, and well cared for during a colonic procedure at Living Arts Wellness.  Here is some information that will help you understand what to expect during your appointment:

1. Intake Forms: Your therapist may briefly review or confirm certain details from the colonic health questionnaire that you submitted before your appointment. If you are not able to submit your intake forms in advance, your therapist will ask you to complete the forms before your session begins.
2. Explanation of the procedure: The therapist will explain the procedure to you, including the purpose, benefits, and what to expect during the session. They will address any concerns or questions you may have.
3. Preparation: Your therapist will step out of the treatment room to give you privacy to undress from the waist down and lie down on your backside on the treatment table.  Your therapist will provide you with a drape to cover yourself and an extra blanket for your comfort (if needed). Your therapist will also offer to adjust the temperature on the heated biomat on the table.
4. Positioning: The colonic procedure will be performed while you are lying on your back with your knees bent. You may be asked to turn on your left side at the beginning of the session to allow access to the rectal area so the speculum can be gently inserted.
5. Insertion of the speculum: A factory-sealed, sterile, disposable speculum will be lubricated and gently inserted into your rectum. You will have the choice to insert the speculum yourself, or give permission for your colon hydrotherapist to assist you with the insertion of the speculum. The insertion will be done with care to minimize discomfort. Once the speculum is inserted, two tubes will be connected to the speculum: (1) will introduce clean water into the colon, and the other (2) will carry waste from the colon through the viewing tube and out to the sewer. 
6. Water flow: Once the speculum is inserted and the tubes are connected, your therapist will turn on the filtered water so it can flow into your colon. The water will be slightly warmed to enhance comfort. The water gently fills the colon, creating a flushing effect.
7. Monitoring and adjustments: Throughout the procedure, your therapist will monitor the water pressure and temperature, as well as your comfort level. They may make adjustments to ensure the procedure is performed safely and effectively.  It is important to know that you are always in control of the session.  You can ask your therapist to stop the flow of water or end the session at any time.
8. Abdominal Massage: Your therapist may use gentle abdominal massage techniques to help facilitate the movement of gas and waste material and enhance the calming and cleansing effect of the procedure. We respect that all clients have different preferences regarding personal touch, so while abdominal massage may be offered, it is never required as part of a colonic procedure. You can choose to accept or decline abdominal massage at any time.
9. Release of waste material: As the water fills the colon, you may feel a sensation of fullness or pressure. When you feel the urge to release (which may feel like having an urge to use the toilet) your therapist will stop the flow of water, and open the valve that will allow the water along with any waste to leave your colon.  Releasing waste during a colonic session is different from releasing waste on the toilet.  You will not need to push or strain to release waste during your colonic session.  Your job will be to breathe from your belly and allow the waste to effortlessly leave your body.  The more you breathe and relax, the more you release.
10. Repeated cycles: The process of filling and releasing water may be repeated several times during the session to thoroughly cleanse the colon.
11. Privacy and comfort: Your therapist will prioritize your privacy and do their best to make you feel as comfortable as possible throughout the procedure. Open communication with the therapist is key, so we encourage you to share any concerns or discomfort you may experience so the therapist can make adjustments to increase your comfort.
12. Completion and aftercare: Once the session is complete, the speculum will be removed, and the practitioner may provide you with post-colonic instructions or recommendations. This may include dietary advice, hydration tips, or information on any potential side effects to watch out for.

It’s important to have a discussion with your colon hydrotherapist beforehand to fully understand the procedure, ask any questions, and ensure you are comfortable with the process.

Preparing for a colonic appointment involves a few important steps to ensure a successful and comfortable experience. Here are some tips for how to prepare:

1. Intake Forms: Before your appointment, you will be invited to complete our colonic health questionnaire and colonic disclosure. It is important to review and complete these forms in advance of your scheduled appointment so your colon hydrotherapist can review your responses and contact you to discuss and pre-appointment procedures. If you are experiencing a health condition that may require you to postpone your colonic procedure, your colon hydrotherapist will do their best to contact you to discuss next steps before your scheduled appointment. 
2. Follow dietary instructions:  Follow these guidelines to ensure an effective colonic cleanse:
   a. 2-3 days before your appointment: Avoid foods that may be difficult to digest and may cause constipation, gas, or bloating (like red meat, fried foods, dairy, gluten, and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage). Avoid caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and carbonated beverages. Focus on eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drink water, herbal teas, and decaffeinated coffee. 
   b. Day of appointment: Stop eating at least 2-3 hours in advance of your appointment.
3. Hydrate well: Proper hydration is important before a colonic.
   a. 2-3 days before your appointment: Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your appointment to help soften the stool and promote easier elimination. Here is an article that will help you determine how much water to drink. 
   b. Day of appointment: Don’t drink much water in the 2 hours before your appointment, as you will get hydrated during the session.
4. Avoid certain substances: It’s usually recommended to avoid alcohol, caffeine, and carbonated beverages for a few days before your appointment. These substances can dehydrate you or cause additional gas and discomfort during the procedure.
5. Consider taking a natural stool softener: If you are constipated, it may help to begin taking Oxy Powder (a natural magnesium-based stool softener) a few days before your appointment. The Oxy Powder may help soften any waste trapped in your colon so you can move more waste out of your colon during the colonic procedure. We sell Oxy Powder at our Midtown and Old Town locations, or you may be able to order this powder through online retailers. 
6. Plan your schedule: Keep in mind that a colonic appointment can take some time, typically around 60 to 90 minutes (all initial appointments will last 90 minutes). Plan your schedule accordingly, allowing yourself enough time for the appointment without feeling rushed.  While many people have an improved sense of wellbeing after their colonic appointment, some may experience common symptoms of detoxification (e.g. headache, nausea) and may want to rest after their appointment.  Some of our clients also travel long distances to see us, so it is worth mentioning that if you have a long car ride home, it’s advisable to plan to have access to a bathroom for the first hour or so after your appointment. 
7. Dress comfortably: Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment, as it will help you relax during the procedure. You undress from the waist down during the procedure.
8. Consult your healthcare provider: Before scheduling a colonic appointment, you may wish to consult with a functional healthcare provider if you have any health conditions that are contraindications.

If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact us directly at 970-472-0995 for clarification or further guidance.