The Beauty Society

– Flushing out the Myths

We live in a culture that places so much value on beauty and cleanliness, that millions of us spend hundreds, even thousands, of pounds every year on beauty products and treatments that make us look good on the outside - from the roots of our hair to the tips of our toenails. But beauty and cleanliness isn’t just about what’s happening on the outside, what about what’s going on inside. Just how clean are we on the inside?

Today’s onslaught of known toxins in our environment, long hours of sedentary work, little or no exercise, stress and emotional pressures, poor eating habits and wrong food choices, in short - modern living - have weakened our digestive system, building up toxins and rendering it less able to process and eliminate our waste efficiently. As such our bodies are not functioning at their optimum levels resulting in conditions such as constipation, diarrhoea, embarrassing wind, bloating, acne and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

The colon is a vital part of our digestive system. It is the sewer system of our bodies and is an incredible 150 centimetres long. It is made up of smooth muscle over which, unlike other muscles in our bodies, we have no conscious control. When functioning properly, it is responsible for eliminating waste and conserving water.

Most of us are slaves to the modern lifestyle and ignore the need to take proper care of our colon and as such it is reported that in the UK there are as many as 14 million sufferers of constipation, giving us the unenviable title of the most constipated nation in the world!

Talk of our colon often conjures up bewilderment, confusion and embarrassed amusement, as many in our society still find the topic of ‘the area below the belt’ difficult to deal with.

Thankfully, however, mindsets are changing as people are realising the importance of a healthy body inside and out. Colonic Hydrotherapy, or ‘Colonic’ as it is affectionately called, is becoming as popular a treatment as many other health and beauty treatments.

So let’s lift the lid on this subject. What exactly is a Colonic?

Colonic Hydrotherapy, which should only be carried out by qualified colonic practitioners, is an effective treatment which releases accumulated congestion in the bowel, loosening and flushing out toxins and waste. It works by using a combination of warm, purified water introduced into the bowel and gentle abdominal massage. It is, in short, a detoxification of the colon.

After treatment patients generally experience improvements in conditions such as bloating, wind, IBS, fatigue, indigestion, diarrhoea and constipation. Patients have also reported having clearer skin, reduced headaches, better mental clarity, lower stress levels, greater control of emotions, increased energy levels, weight loss, and an overall feeling of well-being.

Colonic Hydrotherapy is not a new, faddy, ‘celebrity’ therapy, nor is it an unnatural practice. For centuries, almost every culture has used some form of colon cleansing for health. In fact Colonic Hydrotherapy is purported to have been used in Ancient Egypt, circa 1500BC, albeit in a rather primitive form, which entailed the patients having water inserted into the bowel via a hollow reed inserted into the rectum. Thank goodness times have moved on!

It is understood that the Egyptians believed that all disease came from food so used colon cleansing as a means of preventing disease.

At around 600BC the Romans began documenting their use of colon cleansing. They used enemas to treat constipation. It is also believed that colon cleansing methods were used in various parts of Africa around this time.

About 100 years ago, colon cleansing began to be replaced by over-the-counter medicines released by pharmaceutical companies that claimed simple and effective solutions.

Colon cleansing once again came to public attention when medical papers were published on the subject of “colon irrigation” in which the author, who was a doctor, was able to detail numerous physical benefits from the treatment from first-hand knowledge and experience.

Today millions of us around the world are discovering the many health benefits attainable from this therapy, and many spas now offer this treatment. Pearl Studios offers Colonic Hydrotherapy, using modern equipment, in a relaxed and calming environment. The treatment is only carried out by their professionally qualified colonic practitioners. Denise Joseph, new to the treatment, describes her recent experience at Pearl Studios.

“After my second and third treatment session I noticed a dramatic reduction in the bloated feeling I originally complained of and in weeks following I felt rejuvenated. The dietary advice given to me by the clinician must have contributed to the weight loss I experienced.”

Colonic Hydrotherapy cannot, of course, replace the benefits of a healthy diet, exercise, relaxation and a good night’s sleep, but it might be a great way to give yourself a periodic internal spring clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Isn’t it a bit undignified?

No. Dignity is maintained at all times. During the treatment itself you are fully covered with a disposable gown and a blanket.

Will it smell?

Absolutely not. The whole colonic equipment is totally enclosed, so no odours can escape.

Will it hurt

Initially you will experience a small amount of pressure for a few seconds when the tube is inserted a short way into the rectum. Once it is in place and secure, you will be asked to lie on your back. During treatment you will experience a feeling of becoming full and a desire to pass waste. Your practitioner will also massage your abdominal area to ensure that all waste matter is released. Many people find this deeply relaxing.

Will I need time off work?

No. Many people have a treatment during their lunch hour. Following the treatment, you can go back to your normal routine but should not take any form of strenuous exercise.

Will I be able to go to the toilet properly afterwards?

For some patients, the treatment may trigger several subsequent bowel movements for the next few hours, but there won't be any uncontrollable urgency or discomfort. Since the colon has been cleared of solid matter, it may take one or two days before it fills up again and normal bowel movements are resumed.

Can I eat after the treatment?

You will be advised to drink plenty of water and take a light meal at your normal meal time.

How often will I need the treatment?

It depends on diet, stress levels, health, age, and how successful the colonic treatment was. A course of four treatments, at weekly intervals is advised to achieve maximum benefit before going on a maintenance programme. Maintenance can be done once or twice a year.