12 Tips for colon hydrotherapy in Los Angeles from a certified therapist. Learn about prep, colon cleanse benefits and after care.

When people walk into our studio for a colon hydrotherapy or electro lymphatic drainage session for the first time, they are often both nervous and excited. We get it! Even though we’re based in Los Angeles, the heart of wellness culture, this whole world of colonics can still feel mysterious or even a little intimidating. That’s why we love guiding people through it with clarity, warmth, and zero judgment.

Our studio specializes in colon hydrotherapy, colonics, colonic hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage, and holistic approaches to digestive comfort and overall health. Because we’ve worked with clients from all across the Los Angeles area, from West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Monica, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Tarzana, West Hills, and the San Fernando Valley, we’ve seen every digestive concern imaginable. From chronic constipation, lingering bloat, long-term stress, irregular bowel movements, IBS, or just wanting to feel lighter and more connected to inner health, there’s no story that surprises us.

We’re certified colon hydrotherapists, I-ACT certified, and between our hands-on experience and the hundreds of first-timers we’ve supported, we’ve learned exactly what people need to feel safe, informed, and comfortable. This article is everything we’d tell you if you were sitting with us in the treatment room before your first session, a guide that explains how a colon cleanse works, how to prepare, how to make the most of every session, and how lymphatic, digestive health, and emotional wellness all come together.

How Your Colon, Large Intestine, and Bowel Movements Work Day-to-Day

To understand why a colonic or colon hydrotherapy session can feel so relieving, it helps to know what’s going on inside your large intestine every single day. This part of your body is basically your internal recycling and finishing station. After your small intestine absorbs nutrients, the large intestine steps in to absorb water and electrolytes, form stool, and use gentle muscular waves, called peristalsis, to move fecal matter toward the rectum.

When everything is working smoothly, your body creates consistent bowel movements that feel easy and natural. But when life steps in, stress, travel, dehydration, processed foods, emotional tension, sedentary routines, all of that delicate movement can slow down. Suddenly you may be dealing with constipation, hard stools, or irregular bowel movements that leave you feeling backed up, swollen, foggy, or uncomfortably full. And if you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or gastrointestinal sensitivity, this slowdown can feel even heavier.

This is why inner health is never just digestion. When the colon is sluggish, people often notice changes in mood, energy, skin, and even the way they sleep. Supporting colon health is really about supporting your overall health and health and well-being as a whole.

See more on the Connection Between Sleep and Gut Health here.

What Is Colon Hydrotherapy / Colonic Hydrotherapy?

Colon hydrotherapy, also called colonic hydrotherapy, colonics, colonic irrigation, or colon irrigation, is a gentle, water-based cleansing treatment that uses a very small disposable tube to introduce a gentle infusion of filtered, temperature-controlled water into your colon. The water helps loosen and hydrate stool, soften gas pockets, and encourage your body’s natural flush and release process. Think of it as internal cleansing that supports your colon in doing what it’s naturally designed to do.

There are two types of systems, the LIBBE Open System which is what we use and the closed system. See more on Open System Colonics vs. Closed here.

People sometimes ask whether they can get the same effect with DIY methods. The honest answer, not really. A professional colon cleanse at a wellness center is completely different from over-the-counter powders, extreme detoxification drinks, or crash cleanses that can leave you exhausted or crampy. A properly guided session is far more comfortable, far more hygienic, and far more supportive of long-term gut health.

Colonics vs. Enema, What’s the Real Difference?

If you’ve ever tried an enema at home, you probably know it’s a one-time infusion that reaches only the lower portion of your colon. Think of it as a quick rinse.

A colonic, on the other hand, works with the full length of the colon and moves in gentle cycles. Water flows in slowly, then your body releases naturally, and then you repeat. Because of that ebb-and-flow pattern, the cleansing is more thorough and supportive of your colon’s natural movement.

People who have used enemas before often tell us they prefer colonics because they’re less messy, more comfortable, and feel more complete afterward. Plus, with colonics, everything is handled in a hygienic, odor-free setup with strict sanitation protocols. The tube is always disposable, the equipment is carefully maintained, and you’re never dealing with a chaotic bathroom situation. No awkwardness here, just a calm, private experience.

How Colon Hydrotherapy Fits into Holistic Wellness

Colon hydrotherapy is part of a wider holistic health approach. When the colon is sluggish or holding onto excess waste, people may notice skin issues, heaviness, bloating, or low energy. A gentle colon cleanse can help people feel lighter, clearer, and more connected to their bodies.

Many clients say that colonics help them tune into what foods work for them, reduce their bloat, and improve their day-to-day comfort. Some even notice improvements in complexion or mood because the digestive system and lymphatic system play a role in moving toxins and waste through the body.

But an important reminder, colonics do not cure IBS, psoriasis, gastrointestinal diseases, or any medical condition. What they can do is support your sense of comfort and act as a helpful wellness tool alongside your doctor’s care. Think of it like brushing your teeth, but for your inner health.

Tip 1: Hydrate 24 Hours Before Your First Session

Good hydration is truly your best friend before (and after) a colon hydrotherapy appointment. When your body is well-watered, the colon responds more gently to the infusion, and the release process feels smoother and easier.

You don’t need to chug a gallon in the morning, in fact, please don’t, we want you comfortable, not bloated. Instead, sip water throughout the day before your appointment. Herbal teas count too. Staying hydrated also supports your lymph, which ties into the lymphatic system and the natural drainage pathways your body uses to move waste.

Tip 2: Eat Light, Clean Foods Leading Up to Your Appointment

The best pre-colonic foods are comforting and easy to digest, warm broths, cooked vegetables, baked sweet potatoes, oatmeal, and simple proteins. These foods create minimal gas, which means less pressure and more comfort during your session.

Tip 3: Avoid Heavy Meals and Alcohol Beforehand

We see this all the time, someone comes in after a weekend of margaritas, fried food, or a big celebration, and their body is just tired. Alcohol, heavy meals, and rich foods make the digestive system work extra hard, and they also stress the liver.

That’s why we recommend skipping alcohol the day of, and ideally the day before, your appointment. Try to finish your last light meal about three to four hours before your session. It gives your digestive system time to settle so you’re not working against a full stomach. You’ll feel so much more comfortable.

See more on the Long Term Effects of Alcohol on the Digestive System here.

Tip 4: Don’t Be Nervous, Colon Hydrotherapy Is Gentle

This is a big one. People walk in imagining all kinds of scenarios, embarrassment, pain, loss of control. Every colon therapist has heard it all! Please know, oour job is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and supported.

The equipment we use is designed for comfort. The water flow is slow and controlled. You’re fully covered with towels or a drape. You’re in a private room. And we keep the atmosphere more spa like than clinical on purpose, soft lighting, calm energy, and plenty of reassurance.

If you’re worried about holding it in or doing it wrong, don’t be. The colon without pressure works best when you relax, and your body knows exactly what to do.

Tip 5: Wear Comfortable Clothing to Your Appointment

Being physically comfortable makes everything emotionally easier too. We always recommend wearing loose pants, a soft dress, or anything without a tight waistband. After your cleansing session, you might feel a little extra sensitive around your belly, and tight jeans or stiff materials can feel restrictive. Minimal jewelry is a good idea, and try to avoid anything complicated to maneuver when you’re changing in the room.

Tip 6: Allow Time to Relax Before and After Your Session

This might be one of the most underestimated tips. Colon hydrotherapy is best when your mind isn’t racing and your body isn’t tense from rushing through traffic on the 405. Try to give yourself a little breathing room before your appointment, arrive a few minutes early, take a slow inhale in the room, use the restroom if you need, and let your nervous system settle.

Afterward, people often feel lighter, calmer, or a little introspective. The colon has been gently moving, releasing, and hydrating, and your body may want a quiet moment to integrate. A short walk, some deep breathing, or even sitting in your car for a few peaceful minutes can support peristalsis, the lymphatic system, and your sense of health and well-being. It’s like giving your inner world a moment to exhale.

Tip 7: Ask About the System Used, Open vs. Closed Colonics

One of the most important parts of preparing for your first colonic is understanding the difference between an open system and a closed system. Both are forms of colon hydrotherapy, but the experience can be quite different, and choosing the right one can make your first session feel much more comfortable.

In our wellness center, we use the LIBBE open system. With LIBBE, you lie on a comfortable, contoured table, and you gently self-insert a very small disposable tube. Once you are settled, a gentle infusion of filtered, temperature-controlled water flows slowly into the colon. You control your own releases, and everything moves naturally into an odor-free basin that sits beneath you, where waste material and toxins are carried away cleanly. The setup is private and calm, almost spa-like, and many people appreciate that they are in control of the pace and flow of their session.

A closed system feels different. In a closed system, the therapist controls the inflow and outflow of water manually, guiding the process from start to finish. There is no open basin, and the tubing manages both the water and the releases. Some people love the hands-on support, while others feel more relaxed with the privacy of an open system.

The best system depends on what makes you feel safe and at ease. If you prefer privacy, independence, and a gentler environment, an open system may feel more comfortable. If you want more hands-on guidance or reassurance, a closed system might be the better fit. During your consultation, we always help you figure out what feels right for you so that your first experience sets the tone for calm, confidence, and inner health.

Tip 8: Communicate Your Comfort Level During the Session

Communication is everything during colon hydrotherapy. Even though the process is gentle, your comfort should always come first. If you feel pressure, discomfort, cramping, temperature sensitivity, or even emotional waves, please speak up. There is nothing you can say that will surprise or overwhelm us.

Small adjustments can make a big difference. We can pause the water, slow down the infusion, or help you with breathing techniques. Many clients tell us they relax fully and the entire process is easy, even meditative.

Tip 9: Don’t Expect Pain, Most Clients Feel Relief and Lightness

A common fear is that a colonic cleanse will hurt, but true pain is not part of a proper colon hydrotherapy session. Mild cramping can happen when the colon contracts or when waste material starts to move, and that is completely normal. It is similar to how your belly might feel right before a natural bowel movement.

The important distinction is between discomfort and pain. Discomfort means the colon is waking up, hydrating, and responding to the gentle infusion. Pain means something does not feel right, and that is when we pause and adjust. We never push through pain, and your body guides every step of the process.

Most people are surprised by how much relief they feel afterward. Clients often describe a lighter belly, less bloat, a flatter stomach, more mental clarity, and an overall sense of release. Many say they feel like they can breathe deeper or stand taller. Others feel a wave of calm and grounded energy, as if they cleared out not just physical heaviness but emotional tension as well.

Tip 10: Keep Hydrating and Eat Whole, Gentle Foods

What you do after your colonic is just as important as how you prepare for it. Post-session, your colon has just experienced a gentle cleansing treatment, and a little kindness goes a long way. Hydration is key, so sip water throughout the rest of the day. Herbal teas, broths, and coconut water are also soothing options.

When it comes to food, stick to simple, warm, nourishing meals. Think vegetable soups, steamed veggies, soft grains, and easy proteins. Avoid very spicy foods, fried dishes, ultra-processed snacks, or super sugary treats right afterward, because your digestive system is still recalibrating.

If you enjoy probiotics or fermented foods, this can be a great time to support your gut health. Foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, yogurt, or high fiber foods can help nourish healthy flora naturally. Many people notice smoother digestion, more regular bowel movements, and better energy when they care for their body with patience and gentle foods after colon cleansing.

Tip 11: Frequency Matters, Design a Colon Hydrotherapy Plan That Fits Your Life

One colonic can feel amazing, but the real benefits of colon hydrotherapy tend to build over time. Most people do best with a short series when they first start, especially if they have a history of constipation, bloating, or irregular bowel movements. For beginners, we usually suggest a few sessions spaced closely together to help the colon rehydrate, wake up its natural peristalsis, and start releasing more comfortably.

From there, maintenance depends entirely on your lifestyle and your body’s natural rhythm. Someone with long-standing constipation or IBS tendencies may need sessions more frequently, while someone with a clean diet and regular digestion might only need occasional support. A colon without chronic buildup responds differently than a colon that has been sluggish for years, and we tailor your plan accordingly.

See more on Colon Hydrotherapy for Constipation Relief here.

Tip 12: Choose a Certified, Experienced Practitioner, Why I-ACT Matters

Choosing the right practitioner can make or break your experience with colon hydrotherapy. The I-ACT certification, which stands for the International Association for Colon Hydrotherapy, ensures that your therapist has completed extensive training hours, follows safety protocols, maintains hygiene standards, and stays up to date through ongoing education.

What I-ACT Certification Means for Your Safety

When you choose an I-ACT certified colon hydrotherapist in the Los Angeles area, whether you live in West Los Angeles, Santa Monica, Woodland Hills, the San Fernando Valley, or anywhere nearby, you are choosing someone who understands proper equipment use, how to screen for contraindications, how to support emergencies, and how to create a safe, ethical treatment environment.

Before booking, it is perfectly acceptable to ask questions. How long have they practiced, what system do they use, how do they handle clients with medical histories, do they collaborate with integrative doctors or wellness professionals. A good practitioner welcomes those conversations because your safety and comfort always come first.

What to Expect During a Colon Hydrotherapy Session at Our Wellness Studio

When you arrive for your appointment, we start with a simple intake form. This includes questions about your digestive patterns, gastrointestinal history, irritable bowel syndrome IBS symptoms, recent surgeries, medications, and anything else that helps us understand your colon health. We also review any contraindications to make sure colon hydrotherapy is safe for you, and sometimes we may ask for physician clearance if needed.

After the paperwork, we give you a quick tour of the room so you know exactly where everything is. We show you the bathroom, the call button, towels, and how the setup works. The goal is for you to feel grounded, familiar, and in control even before the session begins.

Getting Set Up on the LIBBE Open System

Once you are ready, you will settle onto the LIBBE open system table. The table is contoured for comfort and privacy, and we walk you through everything step by step. You position yourself comfortably, cover yourself with the provided drape or towel, and then gently self-insert the very small disposable rectal tube. This part may feel intimidating at first, but almost everyone finds it much simpler than they expected.

We offer tips to make it easy, such as relaxing the belly, taking a deep breath, and giving yourself time. There is no rush. Once you are set up, you position yourself comfortably, and the system takes care of the rest with a gentle flow.

The Gentle Infusion, Flush, and Natural Release Cycle

During the session, a gentle infusion of filtered, temperature-controlled water enters your colon very slowly. You may feel a gradual fullness, a gentle pressure, and eventually the natural urge to release. The moment you feel ready, your body lets go naturally into the basin, and the waste flows away without odor or mess.

This process repeats in cycles throughout the session. Some people release a lot early on, others need more time for the water to hydrate the colon before anything moves. Both experiences are normal. A typical session lasts 45 minutes.

Open System Colonics LIBBE

The open system is ideal for clients who love privacy, independence, and a spa-like atmosphere. With LIBBE, you are able to release as often as your body needs, without waiting for a therapist to manage the flow. You have the freedom to move slightly, adjust your position, or take deeper breaths in a calm space. People who are more modest, who like autonomy, or who feel more relaxed with minimal hands-on guidance tend to prefer the open system.

See more on the LIBBE Open System Colon Hydrotherapy here.

Possible Benefits of a Colon Cleanse for Digestion, Bloat, and Overall Health

One of the first things clients tend to notice after colon hydrotherapy is a lighter, more comfortable belly. When the colon has been holding onto stool for a while, especially when constipation or irregular bowel movements are part of daily life, everything can feel tight and heavy. The gentle internal cleansing we do in a session helps soften stool, hydrate the colon, and encourage the movement of old fecal matter that your body has struggled to release on its own.

This often brings a sense of physical relief that people describe as feeling less backed up or less swollen. Many clients also mention that they experience fewer gas pockets and that their bloat seems to ease afterward. The combination of hydration, gentle stimulation, and natural release helps the colon reset in a way that many people find deeply comforting.

Gut Health, IBS Tendencies, and Gastrointestinal Comfort

Although colon hydrotherapy is not a treatment for IBS or gastrointestinal conditions, many people with sensitive digestion find that colon cleansing can help them tune into their gut in a new way. When your colon feels clean and your belly feels settled, it becomes much easier to identify which foods are supportive for you and which ones bring discomfort or bloating and gas.

Clients often tell us that they become more aware of how different meals make them feel, and that awareness alone can bring better day-to-day comfort. Supporting gut health is about listening to your body, and having a clean, hydrated colon gives you a clearer baseline to notice what works for you.

Skin Issues, Anti-Aging, and Feeling Refreshed

It is amazing how often people walk out of a session and say they feel like their skin looks brighter. When digestion is sluggish and toxins and waste sit longer in the body, it can sometimes show up on the skin as dullness, congestion, or breakouts. While colon hydrotherapy cannot promise skin cures, many clients report that their complexion looks clearer or their eyes look brighter after a session.

There is also a refreshing, lifted feeling that many people love, which is why colon hydrotherapy is part of so many wellness and anti-aging routines throughout Los Angeles. When your digestion is flowing well, it often reflects outward in how you feel and how you glow.

See Benefits of Colonic Irrigation for Skin Health here.

Emotional Lightness and Mental Clarity

It’s surprising how much feeling backed up emotionally mirrors feeling backed up physically. When the belly is tense and the colon feels full, mood and focus can feel heavy too. After a cleansing treatment, people often say they feel mentally lighter and more grounded.

Some describe it as a reset, others as a deep exhale they didn’t know they needed. It is not unusual for clients to feel clearer mentally, calmer emotionally, or more connected to themselves after their body has released what it no longer needs.

Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Supporting Inner Health

Your lymphatic system is one of the quiet heroes of your body. It moves fluid called lymph through tiny vessels that collect toxins and waste so they can eventually be eliminated. When the lymphatic system is sluggish, people often notice puffiness, heaviness, low energy, or a sense of being weighed down.

Because the colon and lymphatic system both play roles in how the body moves waste, supporting one tends to support the other. When the colon is working well and the lymph is flowing freely, your body feels more balanced and energized.

What Is Electro Lymphatic Drainage?

Lymphatic drainage massage is a very gentle technique that encourages lymph to move through the body. In our studio, electro lymphatic drainage uses soft vibrational tools designed to stimulate lymph flow without pressure. The experience is relaxing, soothing, and often leaves people feeling lighter almost immediately.

Supporting the lymphatic system can help reduce puffiness, support immune function, and complement the cleansing benefits of colon hydrotherapy. Many clients feel that combining these treatments helps their body feel clearer and more refreshed overall.

Combining Colon Hydrotherapy and Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Pairing lymphatic drainage massage with colon hydrotherapy can be a powerful combination because the two treatments support each other beautifully. Some clients prefer to do lymphatic drainage the day before their colonic, which helps stimulate lymph movement and prepare the body. Others enjoy doing lymphatic drainage after their colonic because their body already feels lighter and ready for deeper relaxation.

Questions to Ask Before Booking Your Colonic in LA

It is completely appropriate to ask questions before committing to a session. Here are a few that help you get a sense of professionalism and safety.

Are you I-ACT certified, do you use an open system or a closed system, how do you handle clients with medical conditions, what is your wellness philosophy when it comes to colon cleanse hydrotherapy and holistic care.

These questions help you understand whether the practitioner is aligned with your comfort level and needs.

Red Flags to Watch Out For

If a practitioner promises dramatic cures, avoids discussing health history, or skips a proper intake process, that is a sign to be cautious. Cleanliness is essential, so vague answers about sanitation or equipment care are also red flags.

Another thing to watch for is high-pressure sales tactics. A good colon hydrotherapist supports your wellness journey, they don’t push you into long package commitments without understanding your body first.

Crafting Your Holistic Wellness Routine

A sustainable wellness routine should feel doable, grounding, and supportive, not extreme. Many clients combine colon hydrotherapy, lymphatic drainage massage, and even occasional infrared sauna sessions to support their digestion, lymph flow, and overall health.

The key is balance. Gentle movement, restful sleep, hydration, and a calm nervous system all support a healthy colon and lymphatic rhythm. You don’t need a rigid detox regimen, just small, consistent habits that feel nurturing.

Food, Movement, and Stress Management for Inner Health

Your colon responds to the way you live day to day. Walking, stretching, and breathing exercises help the belly relax and keep peristalsis moving. Mindful eating can reduce bloating and help you understand what foods make you feel your best.

Stress impacts digestion significantly. A tight belly, constipation, or IBS flares often show up when life feels overwhelming. Gentle stress relief practices go a long way in supporting your gut and your energy.

When to Reach Out for Extra Support

If you notice big changes in digestion, if constipation becomes more frequent, or if you feel unsure about what your body is trying to tell you, that is a good time to schedule a check-in with your colon hydrotherapist.

If you ever experience persistent pain, blood in stool, rapid weight changes, or anything that feels outside the norm, it is important to speak with a doctor. Colon hydrotherapy supports wellness, but it should always work alongside proper medical care when needed.

You never have to navigate colon health, gut health, or lymphatic wellness alone. We are here to support you in every step of your journey.

Fernz Wellness - Los Angeles Colon Hydrotherapy

Learn more about us here and discover how our services can be a vital part of your journey to optimal health. We look forward to supporting you on your journey to better digestive health and improved well-being.

Our address is 5486 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 and you can also call or text us at (424) 281-9366.

Conclusion

Colon hydrotherapy and lymphatic drainage massage are powerful wellness tools that can support digestion, reduce bloat, and help you feel more at ease in your own body. A clean colon environment and healthy lymphatic flow work together to support comfort, clarity, and overall health.

It is completely normal to feel nervous before your first session, and that is why our wellness studio is here to guide you with care and reassurance at every step. If you live in Santa Monica, Woodland Hills, Tarzana, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, West Hills, the San Fernando Valley, West Los Angeles, or anywhere nearby, book your session here.

At the end of the day, this is about feeling comfortable in your body, understanding how your colon and lymphatic system work, and building a realistic wellness routine that feels good long term. You deserve to feel light, clear, and at home inside yourself.

Colon Hydrotherapy FAQs

Is Colon Hydrotherapy Painful or Embarrassing?

Many people worry about this before their first session, but embarrassment fades quickly once you see how calm, private, and gentle the experience is. Mild sensations of fullness or movement are normal, but sharp pain is not part of the process, and we always adjust if anything feels off.

The goal is comfort, safety, and relaxation. Most people leave saying the experience was far easier than expected.

Will I Lose All My Good Bacteria?

Your colon constantly repopulates beneficial bacteria. Colon hydrotherapy does not empty your gut of good flora. After a session, nourishing your body with fiber rich fruits and vegetables, probiotics, or fermented foods can support healthy balance in a natural way.

What If I Don’t See Much Waste Material?

Every body responds differently. Sometimes the first session is more about hydrating the colon so peristalsis can wake up again. Some people release a lot the first time, while others see more movement during the next session.

We always look at patterns over time, not just a single appointment.

Can I Go Back to Work After My Colonic?

Most people can return to work or normal activities right away. You may feel relaxed or a little tired, so a lighter schedule can be helpful. Comfortable clothes and easy access to a restroom are always a good idea, just in case your body continues to release a small amount afterward.

Will Colonics Fix My IBS, Psoriasis, or Other Conditions?

Colon hydrotherapy is not a cure for medical conditions. What it can do is support comfort, encourage gentle cleansing, and help you feel more aware of your digestive patterns. Many people feel more empowered to make supportive lifestyle changes when they feel physically lighter and more tuned in to their gut.