Gumtree Retreat
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about colon hydrotherapy and visiting our day spa in the Orara Valley — between Grafton and Coffs Harbour.
Colon Hydrotherapy — Your Questions Answered
What is colon hydrotherapy?
Colon hydrotherapy is the infusion of warm, purified and temperature-regulated water into the large intestine (colon). The waste is hydrated and softened, resulting in evacuation through natural peristalsis. This is repeated several times during the session.
There are two professional methods of administering colon hydrotherapy: the open and the closed systems. The International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy (I-ACT) represents both methods, and it is a therapist's personal choice which they operate — either or both.
The open system, which we choose to use, infuses gravity-fed, temperature-regulated water via a pencil-thin tube that you self-insert in private, after your consultation and instructions from a certified colon hydrotherapist. For more information, please watch the YouTube video "Discovering Colon Hydrotherapy".
Why is colon hydrotherapy advised during my cleanse?
Colon hydrotherapy is one of the most effective ways to start, support and accelerate your cleanse — releasing waste and toxins, and stimulating other detoxification channels such as your liver and lymphatic system to cleanse more effectively. The removal of this waste and toxins may allow you to experience an ultimate whole-body cleanse.
What will it feel like?
A colon hydrotherapy session is generally a comfortable, relaxing experience and leaves you feeling refreshed, with improved mental clarity and more energy. Generally, a treatment is just like having a bowel movement, but more effective and usually easier.
Occasionally during the session you may experience a "diarrhoea feeling" — contractions, cramping or gas in your abdomen — or a slight pressure in the rectum, like just before a bowel movement. As you push the water and waste out, this feeling passes. Your therapist can teach you how to self-massage your abdominal area to help reduce any discomfort, and will coach you on how to take the water into your colon and gently release it to make the session as comfortable as possible.
Will the procedure hurt?
No — a colon hydrotherapy session should not be painful or hurt. The experience differs by client and is influenced by their diet and health. One consistent report from clients is that, after the initial session, subsequent sessions are more comfortable, pleasant, easy and even quite enjoyable.
Will an enema or taking a laxative accomplish the same result?
No. An enema will only cleanse the very lower rectal and sigmoid part of the colon. Repetitive use of laxatives may lead to irritation and weakening of the colon, and can also become habit-forming.
What other benefits may I expect from colon hydrotherapy?
Colon hydrotherapy is not a cure-all, but it is a valuable procedure that may assist the body with a wide variety of symptoms — including low immunity; colon-related conditions such as IBS and constipation; the healing of skin conditions such as acne and sores; and relief from headaches, fatigue and swelling through improved lymphatic-system function. It helps the colon eliminate more efficiently, relieving the toxic burden on other organs and channels of elimination such as the liver. The colon then functions more efficiently in eliminating waste and absorbing nutrients.
Will one colon hydrotherapy session completely empty the colon?
Your colon is approximately as long as you are tall, so there is a lot of area to cleanse. You can't cleanse the colon in one session — this is why people normally do a series of sessions to thoroughly cleanse, hydrate and create a better environment. Your therapist will help you design a personal colon cleanse that complements your health goals.
What is the difference between a colonoscopy and colon hydrotherapy?
A colonoscopy is a medical procedure performed to view inside the colon. Colon hydrotherapy is the infusion of purified, temperature-regulated water into the colon to hydrate and activate the removal of accumulated waste.
Is the procedure safe and sanitary?
Yes. The colon hydrotherapy room and equipment are thoroughly cleaned after every session, and we only use disposable supplies. Our centre is checked and licensed with the council.
Is colon hydrotherapy embarrassing?
Your privacy is of great importance to us, including professional confidentiality. Our colon hydrotherapy rooms are designed to give you a private, relaxing experience, and you are completely covered from the waist down during the entire session.
Do I have to prepare before my treatment?
No — you can have a session without any preparation. However, avoiding some foods can make the treatment easier and more comfortable. Try not to eat anything for 2 hours before your treatment. On the day, it helps to eat light meals such as steamed vegetables, soup, smoothies, vegetable juice and salads. For a few days prior you may also like to minimise caffeine, alcohol, sugar, meat, bread, soft drinks, and heavy or processed foods, which helps your body begin to detox. Keep hydrated by drinking 1–2 litres of water; herbal teas count towards your fluid intake.
What should I do after a colon hydrotherapy session?
Your therapist will give you an electrolyte drink and a probiotic after your session. Rest for up to 30 minutes — many clients relax in our infrared sauna afterwards. Eat light, easy-to-digest foods and avoid raw vegetables for 24 hours; steamed vegetables, soups, broths and vegetable juices are gentler and support the cleanse. Continue to avoid or minimise caffeine, alcohol, sugar, bread and soft drinks, and reduce heavy meat consumption for a few days — lean meats or fish are a lighter option.
Visiting Gumtree Retreat
Where is Gumtree Retreat located?
We're at 3570 Orara Way, Kungala NSW 2460, set on 40 acres of bushland in the Orara Valley — roughly midway between Grafton and Coffs Harbour, and an easy drive from Glenreagh, Nana Glen and Woolgoolga.
Do I need an appointment, and how do I book?
All treatments are by appointment. Call us on 02 6649 4464 to check availability and arrange your booking, or send an enquiry through the contact form.
Can I stay overnight after my spa day?
Yes — you can add an overnight stay in our Billabong Cabin, including a supper and breakfast hamper, from $130–$160 on top of your spa day or detox package.
Do you offer gift vouchers?
Absolutely. Gift vouchers are available for any individual treatment or retreat package and make a perfect present. Call 02 6649 4464 to arrange one.
Still have a question? We're happy to help.
Call 02 6649 4464Discovering Colon Hydrotherapy at Gumtree Retreat