So, what is a colonic?

Many people have heard of colonics. They’re becoming increasingly popular as people search out for ways to feel lighter, to detox, and to overall try something new in the name of health.

In this post, I’ll break down what a colonic is, what really happens in a session, and the potential benefits and risks – so you can decide if it’s something you want to explore.

What is it?

 A colonic is the introduction of warm, filtered water into the colon to flush it out. The idea is to stimulate the muscles that move waste and toxins out of the body but may have become sluggish. The water in turn can remove waste and toxins that may have built up over time in the digestive tract. This is a modern version of a cleansing practice that’s been around since ancient times.

A colonic is like an enema on speed. A machine used by a colon hydrotherapist performs the treatment. It’s important to make sure that your colon hydrotherapist is certified and has received professional training from an organization like the International Association of Colon Hydrotherapists (I-ACT) and uses a FDA certified machine.

In contrast an enema typically only cleans the lower part of the colon whereas a colonic reaches further into the large intestine.

What happens during a session?

 During a colonic session, you lie on a treatment table like a massage table. In my sessions, I make sure that clients are comfortable by offering extra pillows, aromatherapy, a blanket if cold, as well as ensure that they’re properly covered with the use of towels before starting. A small, disposable tube – a speculum, is thickly covered in lubricant then slowly inserted into the rectum. This should go in smoothly, and while it’s a little awkward to have something in your bum, it should be comfortable.

I stay with my clients the entire 45 minute session, making conversation or quietly massaging their backs and abdomens while they zone out, and always monitoring the entire session. I’ve had a few clients who’ve fallen asleep on the table!

The introduced into the colon will start to fill and hydrate, helping to loosen old waste, gas, toxins – anything that may be stuck along the colon walls. After some time, this is all released into a waste hose connected to the speculum, containing spills and smells. When clients realize that they don’t have to worry about waste leaking, they truly relax and even better sessions.

What are benefits of a colonic?

·         Relieving constipation or bloating

·         Jumpstarting a detox or cleanse

·         Increasing energy levels

·         Improving digestion

·         Promoting a sense of lightness and well-being

How often should you do a colonic?

At least once a month! Even people with the best lifestyle habits or people who poop regularly get backed up due to stress, travel, diet changes, or environmental toxins. The colon is like a trash chute—it still needs occasional cleaning, no matter how efficient the rest of the system is. Monthly sessions help maintain regular detoxification, support digestion, and keep your gut in balance. That said, the ideal frequency variers by person.

What are risks?

Some people experience mild cramping and nausea. These are toxins and gas stirring up as the water loosens them. These sensations pass. Some people feel very sleepy after their session and others have to go to the bathroom more frequently for the next few hours.

Overall, colonics are a helpful tool for people looking for a cleanse from the inside out or wanting to support their digestive health.