Colonic Irrigation FAQ's

How many Colonics will I need?

The amount of treatments needed varies greatly from person to person based on their health conditions and goals. For a well-rounded programme we would start with a series of at least 3 sessions but up to 10 or 12 sessions may be needed: about one session per week. Again, we will assess your individual needs by taking a detailed case history. One session is still better than none, but in a series of sessions the body can release at deeper levels. Often times, waste is so well lodged and hardened in the colon that it may take a series of colonics to sufficiently soften and loosen the accumulated material. Also, each session builds on the last one. It may take a few sessions to get your body functioning normally and healthfully and this is our goal. In general, a series of three sessions is a great starting point. From there, one to three sessions as a reboot every 6 to 12 months is recommended. If you are on a detox program of any kind, you should have frequent/regular treatments. This is because detoxing triggers the body to dump tremendous amounts of toxins into your large intestine/colon, so you need to rinse those toxins from your colon frequently in order keep up with the rapid detox. Even if you can only do one colonic, it will still be highly beneficial.

How often should I have a Colonic?

For maintenance, you may choose to have one session every three months or with the change of seasons a few times per year. When you are in tune with your body, it will let you know when it is time for some letting go. Some clients choose to have a session once a month for ongoing cleansing and detoxification. If you are on a fasting or detoxification program, it is highly recommended that you include colonics as part of it. In addition, if you get sick, colonics will help with lymphatic drainage, speeding up your healing. Clients that have the most success complete the recommended series.
Some people go an entire lifetime carrying toxins with them, never realising what a difference colonics can make.
No matter how often you can have a session, we highly recommend that you do.

Why should I have more than one Colonic session?

When we clear out the colon, the body starts pulling waste out of the other tissues and organs (especially the liver) and putting those wastes into the blood stream and large intestine. This is a good thing! The waste then heads to the liver and then back to the colon. Therefore, subsequent colonics are necessary so that the stirred-up waste is eliminated and removed, rather than being re-absorbed.

How are the liver and colon connected?

The liver is the main detoxification organ of the body. It is considered the largest gland in the body. Many colon X-rays show how constipation can exert pressure onto the liver area, resulting in irritation to both liver and gall bladder as well as to the common bile duct. This delays and obstructs the normal draining of these organs- a condition, which is often alleviated through colon hydrotherapy. Without good liver function, we could not live more than 24 hours. Also, the clearer the large intestine is, the more the liver will be signalled to also "clean house" since the liver excretes its wastes via the bowels.

How much does a Colonic cost?

Initial Session (90 min) $165
Sessions (approx. 45 to 60 min) $130
Sessions with Additives (coffee, ozone, wheatgrass etc.) $140

Package of 3 (new clients): $340
Package of 3 (existing clients): $310

Package of 6 (new clients): $680
Package of 6 (existing clients): $615

Package of 10 (new clients): $990
Package of 10 (existing clients): $935

Check here for pricing changes and specials

What can I expect from a typical colonic irrigation session?

After your case history consultation has been taken, we will begin the session. The treatment room at Aroha Health Spa is warm, quiet, completely private and with a private toilet. Wearing a stylish gown (handmade by Shanti's mum 😊), that opens at the back, you will hop onto the treatment massage table. The lower half of your body will be covered with warm towels and the treatment table is also heated. We even have extra socks to wear to keep your feet warm. Your body is covered throughout the entire session except for a short period of time when a small lubricated speculum is inserted, by you, into the rectum (with the help of the therapist should you need it). This is usually painless and takes less than a minute. While lying on your left side, the speculum is inserted only 1 to 2 inches into the rectum. The therapist will ensure that the speculum has been inserted correctly. Generally, the therapist remains with you in the room for the entire treatment to operate the colonic device, offer breathing techniques, and massage trigger points in your feet, arms, hands, shoulders, etc.
You will begin lying on your left side and the therapist will then guide you to turn onto your back. You will be given an abdominal massage to facilitate the water’s movement in the colon. Trigger points on the body, feet, and hands will be used to facilitate relaxation and release. You will also be reminded and instructed to BREATHE. With the closed system treatment, you may feel the sensation to push. However just focusing on breathing and allowing the device to do the work for you is all that is required. It is very important that you do NOT push. You will feel comfortable and at ease once you get started. There is generally no mess, odor, or smell! All waste and water are contained within the closed system. You do NOT need to retain all the water that goes into the large intestine. Water can freely flow into and out of the colon at the same time. About 2 to 6 liters of water is used in a typical session. This method of colonic irrigation is all about the letting go and staying relaxed and your therapist is there to assist you. All you have to do is breathe and relax.
At the end of your session, you will move into the private toilet to release any remaining water or waste. This usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes to feel complete. Once the session is complete, you will redress and relax with a probiotic and drink. You are welcome to relax in the reception area, lounge or garden sanctuary for as long as you like before you "re-enter" the world. Our spa is located just across the road from the beach so you might enjoy a nice beach walk after your session.
The treatment room and toilet are thoroughly cleaned between each client, the sheets and towels are all refreshed, and all disposable products are discarded.

What is the consulation process?

During the consultation process we (client and therapist) will collect relevant information and establish a programme to help you achieve your health goals. A full case history is taken and all clients are treated as unique individuals. The aim is also to increase your awareness on the importance and benefits of regular cleansing/fasting so that you will leave informed and empowered to take ownership of your health, as well as choose to make better decisions pertaining to your well-being. We hope to create a better connection to your microbiome via the Gut-Brain axis. And most of all...we have some fun. 😊

What should I immediately before a colonic?

It is advisable to refrain from eating or drinking (except water) anything two hours prior to your scheduled appointment. This is to avoid feelings of nausea, as well as ensuring maximum comfort during your session. Be sure to hydrate with lots of water (2L/day) in the days leading up to your session.

What does a colonic irrigation do?

Using filtered water, this deep colon cleanse helps to remove toxins, gas, accumulated faecal matter, chemicals, unfriendly bacteria and yeasts, parasites, & undigested food particles. This can help alleviate symptoms such as: constipation, bloating, gas, wind, IBS, diarrhoea, abdominal or back pain, and other gastro-intestinal distress. A colonic is a fantastic re-boot for the whole body. Colon cleansing encourages waste, hidden deep within your body, to exit by activating your large intestine, which in turn has a huge positive affect on the liver.

What kind of colonic irrigation equipment do we use?

I use an FDA registered Class 2 Colon Hydrotherapy device called the Hydro-San Model C. It is manufactured by Specialty Health Products (SHP). This is a closed system device so there is NO mess, odor, or contamination.

The Hydro-San comes with a thorough pre-filter system which ensures that the water that goes into the body is completely free of contaminants. Using this device, we can also use the additive system to administer coffee, chlorophyll, ozonated water, probiotics or anything that suits the individual client's needs.

How should I prepare for my Colonic?

Eat as many water and fiber-rich foods as possible over the few days prior to your colonic. Examples: raw and cooked green leafy vegetables, raw vegetable drinks, psyllium hulls, flaxseeds, and whole gluten-free grains. This will start moistening up waste material held in the colon for better elimination.
Drink as much water as you can several days prior to your colonic. 2 liters per day of filtered pure water is recommended.
Try to cut down on all processed foods. Examples: white flour products, cheese, fried foods, greasy foods and sugar. These foods dehydrate the colon and make elimination harder.
Stop drinking liquids 1 hour before. You don't want your bladder full before a colonic.
No diuretics prior to colonic. This would be coffee, tea or soda. This also makes your bladder full.
No foods about 2 hours before your colonic.
Fasting is not necessary prior to a treatment, and the few dietary adjustments we recommend will greatly enhance the results. We believe these are very important and we encourage you to commit and to follow them in order to get the maximum benefits from the course of treatments.

What kind of diet should I follow immediately after a Colonic Irrigation session?

Following a cleansing of the large intestine, the body may feel weary or relaxed or energized. This is simply your body working out and processing through this cleansing period. Proper rest is important at this time to give your body time to rejuvenate. So listen to your body.

Immediately after receiving a colonic, it is important to:

Drink plenty of liquids (purified water, juices, herb teas, pro-biotic drinks, and electrolyte liquids).
Eat a healthy vegetable soup within the next couple of hours.
Avoid eating raw vegetables straight after the treatment. Steamed vegetables and raw fruit are sufficient (to be chewed very thoroughly).
Reduce meat and dairy consumption, alcohol, caffeine and sugar intake.

Is a Colonic painful?

There should be no pain. You may experience a feeling of fullness in the abdomen and possibly slight cramping created by the water and peristalsis. Massage, trigger point release work, reflexology, sounding and breathing techniques are used to alleviate any discomfort that MAY arise. Gentle water flowing through your colon may give you an unusual sensation. The insertion of the small speculum takes only a few seconds and is generally not painful. After a minute or so, you will not even feel that it is there. Remember, your anus is similar to your mouth and has the ability to open just as wide. Going to the dentist, having shots at the doctor, having a colonoscopy, or visiting the gynecologist are all far more uncomfortable than having a colonic! Most clients find the treatment to be relaxing, as you learn about good health and are motivated to live a thriving lifestyle.

Should I be embarrassed or fearful?

Absolutely not! Your body remains covered throughout most of the session. It's time to make friends with our rectums and appreciate and love ALL of our body. It is normal to feel nervous or have some anxiety before your first session, as can be the case whenever we try something new. My goal is to make you are comfortable as possible. The waste tube is connected directly to the plumbing, which exposes nothing (smell or sound) to the client or therapist. At first you may feel nervous because it is a new experience, but rest assured, Shanti is a professional. The client inserts the speculum (with some help from the therapist if needed). We have FUN and a good laugh. 🤩

Is Colon Hydrotherapy sanitary and safe?

Yes, absolutely and completely! We always use a brand new, factory-sterilized and sealed disposable speculum and hose, both of which are disposed of after single use (always insist on disposable no matter what clinic you visit). To repeat, each individual client has their own disposable speculum and hose. These are NEVER used again. The colon hydrotherapy device, treatment room, and toilet are thoroughly cleaned with a hospital grade cleaner (anti-septic) between each and every client. Colonics are very safe; the flow of water into the body is extremely gentle and slow at a very low psi. As always, it is recommended that you consult with your medical doctor prior to making changes in your healthcare regimen.

Will I feel any negative side effects?

When toxins that have been lying dormant in the colon are flushed out and stirred up, some people may feel light-headed or nauseous during a session. This normally passes quite quickly. If you choose to follow a cleansing program, you may have additional "healing crises," but you will feel much better overall as you strip away the OLD, and day by day you will have a stronger feeling of health and well–being as you bring in the NEW. In fact, you may feel exactly the opposite of negative side effects. You are very likely to feel any or ALL of the following after a session: elated, clear, energized, free, light, relaxed, calm, peaceful, pain-free, rebalanced, rejuvenated, and reenergized!

Are Colonics habit forming?

No. Colon Hydrotherapy helps to retrain the bowel to regain strength and generally function better. After a series of colonics, most people regain their normal bowel function of at least one movement per day. After a series of colonics (like a work out to tone your colon) our aim is to have the colon functioning well on its own. Your healthy bowel should eliminate one to three times per day, waste material of about 15 to 30 cm. Again, colonics are a tool, but our goal is to get your bowel functioning normally of it's own accord.

How does Colon Hydrotherapy affect the bacteria in my body?

A colonic does not flush out all good or bad bacteria from the large intestine. The water removes toxins and accumulated wastes from the colon. Some good bacteria may get flushed out with the bad ones but ultimatley we are creating an ideal habitat for the healthy beneficial friendly bacteria to flourish. As the "bad guys" decrease in number, the good guys stand a better chance of reproducing and multiplying, therefore achieving a positive friendly bacterial balance. It's a bit like weeding your garden: You have to remove some of the weeds/rocks/sticks (bad bacteria) so that the other plants that you want to grow (good bacteria) have more soil ground in which to flourish. You are creating a healthy internal environment in which to allow good bacteria to proliferate! We are tipping the scales in your favour. It is up to you after your session to repopulate the gut with probiotics.

Does Colonic Irrigation affect the electrolyte balance in the body?

According to the 1989 study “Effects of Colon Hydrotherapy on Serum Electrolytes” conducted by National College of Naturopathic Medicine, Portland, USA: “No patients experienced any clinically significant symptoms or disturbances.” Again, the water we use has been quadruple filtered and contains no contaminants like chlorine. If chlorinated water is used then this MAY cause imbalances in electrolytes.

How do toxins accumulate in the body?

Toxins can accumulate in the body as a result of stress and/or consuming too much acidic or processed food, such as sugar, white flour, caffeine, and alcohol. The bowel can become unnaturally acidic from eating these modern processed foods. When the bowel becomes toxic, it contaminates the blood as it is delivering nutrients throughout the body, which in turn, spreads the toxins to the heart, lungs, brain, liver, kidneys, muscles etc. In the end, the liver is left to deal with toxic "dirty" blood, and after years of relentless toxicity, it will inevitably become sluggish. At this point, the toxins will begin to collect in other parts of the body. Disease will manifest wherever they settle. Overall, cleansing and colonics allows you to remove accumulated toxicities in order to repair your bowel and liver and protect yourself from disease. Supporting your liver is paramount to health.

How much weight can I lose from having a colonic?

It is possible to lose several kilos after having a colonic, but this is not guaranteed. There can be up to 10 kilos of stored and accumulated waste in the large intestine. Most people enjoy feeling lighter in both the mind and the body after a colonic. Many clients report that their abdomen feels flatter and more toned.

Can Colonic Irrigation help IBS?

YES, Absolutely! Generally, a diagnosis of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) indicates that the doctors do not know what is wrong with you or your bowels. Again, our aim with colonics is to create a balanced internal ecology of friendly bacteria, remove unwanted invaders, and heal and seal the gut lining. This will in turn help with IBS and a myriad of other symptoms. If you want to take the next step in healing and loving your guts check out the Microbiome Renewal Protocol.

Why do I need to cleanse my colon? I have regular bowel movements... isn't this enough?

We hope that having one to three bowel movements a day would be enough to eliminate wastes from the body. However, often there are pockets, distentions etc. within the large intestine where waste material can get hung up (for years!). Even people with regular bowel movements can have impacted waste matter within the large intestine. It's also a matter of how much is waste is coming out during each bowel movement. With an ever increasing toxic load from the environment and food preservatives and additives, it becomes even more important to ensure that our elimination through the large intestine is complete. Our bowels are one of our five main eliminative channels and keeping them clear and well functioning is super important. Also, as we clear our large intestines this has a huge impact on liver detoxification.

How will I know when the colon is empty?

The colon will probably never be empty, as it’s an organ in continuous use. Waste material is always being moved here. As more of the impacted material is released clients comment on feeling the water enter higher regions of the colon without any sense of obstruction. The objective should not be an empty colon, but rather create a well-functioning colon. Most importantly, as the colon is emptier and clearer, the liver will get the signal from the brain to "clean house."

What is the perfect poop?

Check out this page for more information

How is Colonic Irrigation different from an enema?

Enemas are good to clean out the sigmoid and rectal areas of the colon, which extend about 8 to 12 inches into the large intestine. So an enema clears only the very last piece of the large intestine. A series of colonics can remove impacted material from the entire length of the large intestine. Additionally, colonic irrigation can promote peristalsis and help the colon muscles regain tone which can assist in the return of regular bowel movements.

Will laxatives accomplish the same result?

Laxatives can empty the colon short term, but they do this by irritating the lining of colon, which is damaging long term. This irritation produces a thin watery substance that goes through the colon, but leaves behind impacted toxins and waste. Colonic irrigation uses pure water and does not irritate the lining of the large intestine. One of the tremendous benefits is that it actually hydrates the body.

How is Colonic Irrigation different from a colonoscopy?

These two procedures are VERY different indeed. A colonoscopy involves a small camera on the end of a long tube which is inserted into the large intestine for its entire length (5 feet). The purpose is to look for any problems or abnormalities and to take biopsies. There is a preparatory period for a colonoscopy and this procedure must be administered by a Medical Doctor. Sometimes anaesthetic is used to relax the patient during a colonoscopy. A colonic, however, uses no drugs and is a MUCH simpler procedure. The preparatory period for a colonic is much shorter and easier. A speculum is inserted ONLY 1 to 2 inches inside the rectum and water filters into the large intestine flushing out toxins.

Is it possible to have a colonic whilst menstruating?

YES. It is perfectly safe during this time, and can help decrease the cramps and/or bloating accompanying some women's menstruation.

Can I have a colonic whilst I am pregnant?

Yes and No. It is generally not advisable to have a colonic during the first and third trimesters of pregnancy. Especially if you are at risk for miscarriage it is best avoided during the first trimester. During the third trimester it MAY bring on labor so it's best avoided unless you are wanting to bring on labor. The safest time for a colonic is during the second trimester given that you are a healthy woman without pregnancy-related complications. It's always best to consult your midwife or doctor prior to having a colonic. Please discuss your needs with us prior to your session.

What is the function of the large intestine?

The function of the large Intestine is to eliminate waste material from the body, absorb water, and house bacteria that produce Vitamin K and certain B-complex vitamins. The large intestine can be home to both friendly and unfriendly bacteria. Undigested and un-absorbed foods and fiber are eliminated from the body by the large intestine in the form of faeces. Do you know what the most important stage of digestion is?....CHEWING! So please chew your food slowly and thoroughly.

How are the lymph system and the intestines connected?

The lymph system is connected to the circulatory system and a major player for the immune system. Its clear-to-white fluid is composed of many different types of white blood cells and other substances. One of its main jobs is to transport nutrients from the blood to each and every cell and remove waste. Some of the waste is transported to the intestines via the lacteals, the part of the lymph system that empties into the small intestines. It then passes into the large intestine for elimination.
When the intestinal walls are impacted with waste material, the lymph system retains the cell waste. The prolific numbers of lymph nodes in the abdominal region also become storage points for the waste. Lymphatic fluid becomes thicker and if accompanied with dehydration sets the stage for an impaired immune system.

The Treatment Room at Aroha Health Spa

Please note: The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration or any other regulatory body. The products and information mentioned on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate, or prevent any disease. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your physician.