Day In The Life of Exhale Wellness Spa

Inhale. Pause. EXHALE. Pause.

 

We have all heard about ‘Colon Hydrotherapy or ‘Colonics’ either from a family member, from a friend of a friend, or even perhaps seen it pop up in your morning emails with a deal from Groupon for a session. You have listened slightly anxious, but mostly curious and fascinated about the procedure wanting to take the plunge but just not sure about how or  where.

There is a growing body of research that unveils the benefits that colonics bring to your physical body, mental wellbeing and general health and happiness.

Exhale Wellness Spa has been built on my aim to craft a safe haven for all with a primary service being colonics and Juice Detox Programs. My foundation for this business has been built around providing guidance, knowledge and encouragement for clients to: Be aware, Be healthy, Be proactive, Be strong, Be alive, and Be committed from the inside out for their own health, well-being and life… Achieved through diet rich in natural whole foods, supplementation, and lifestyle changes.

Welcome to Exhale Wellness Spa and Well of Harmony with Zhenya Gerson

Many people are intrigued about how Exhale has come to be, the service offerings, my role as a yoga teacher, and my journey through life that has led me to this point right now. From this I have expanded on a few main questions that have been asked of me. Enjoy and please feel free to comment and contact me as I always love to hear feedback.

 

1. What is Colon Hydrotherapy and what are the key benefits?

Colon hydrotherapy is a safe, clean and relaxing method of removing toxins and waste from the colon or large intestine through the gentle infusion of water. The colon is a repository of all the accumulated waste in the body. Research has shown that an unhealthy colon is the cause of some of today’s most serious health conditions, including cancer, heart disease and obesity. An unhealthy person can be carrying around a few kilos of impacted toxic waste material for years without knowing, which becomes a breeding ground for pathogens such as parasites and fungi, resulting in the rest of the body receiving a dirty blood supply.  A healthy colon means a health body and mind!

2. What sets Exhale Wellness Spa apart from the other Colon Hydrotherapy Practices?

When I decided to create Exhale  I first reflected on the experience I had at other colonic practices and knew that I wanted to be the opposite of most of them, especially in the US as the centres are run very clinically, therapists in white coats or nurse scrubs.

First and foremost, I set out with the intention of creating a welcoming space for people to walk into and immediately feel at peace. As if they were walking into a friend’s place for a chat and a cup of tea (which I also have available). And that is exactly what has been created.

When I hear the door open, I usually hear a voice say “oh how nice” or a nice long exhale sigh as if they are leaving all their troubles at the door ready to take in the the calming essence of Exhale.

We have made the reception area a place to relax before the treatment as well as access to a beautiful balcony where you can also choose to sit, have a tea or Zazen Alkaline water, self reflect, and look out towards Burranear Bay.

During the treatment itself I use the finest products as this also contributes to the experience. I use organic massage oil from SEOC, Sydney Essential Oil Company, with doTERRA Digest Zen used in the massage oil.

I’ve taken careful steps to provide a service like no other.  I use a special technique for the colonic itself so that it is approached in the most gentle way possible to make it the most enjoyable and relaxed experience for my client. Firstly, the water is filled into the colon very slowly at a comfortable body temperature, a belly massage is given with the massage oils, and the discussions that I have with my clients during a treatment stems anywhere from food and nutrition to chakras and what’s going on personally in their lives (call me a life coach at times). Often I find that that what is happening to a person emotionally is the greatest factor in their tummy happiness.

I also don’t have a one size fits all approach to client’s after care or “homework” as I like to call it. Each of us is an individual and unique so this must be honored always. Some clients may leave with a tailored nutrition plan, juice detox program,  or a combination of a probiotic, fibre and/or green powder depending upon their own personal needs. On the other hand, some of my clients leave with an essential oil, or meditation and yoga as homework. We’re all different and this is the beauty of working with a range of people.

Incorporating environmentally sustainable practices into my practice is very important to my personal values and through this I support “Who Gives a Crap” toilet paper and ensure that all of my cleaning products are environmentally friendly.

3. Describe a typical day in the world of Exhale Wellness Spa

There are never two same days at Exhale. Everyday brings to me new experiences, constant learnings, and everyday I feel blessed to meet new people and to see the transformations in my regular clients.

My mornings always start with a healthy, nutrient-dense breakfast at home, generally eggs on spelt bread with avocado and tomatoes, and perhaps some fresh goat’s cheese. As they say, ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day’, and in my case I truly believe this as my job is somewhat physical (not like laying bricks but more so than sitting at a desk). Protein keeps me full so I can power on until lunch, which in many cases isn’t until 2.30pm.

I am very mindful to the fact that to keep me sustained until lunchtime. I bring to the office a homemade smoothie with me which I make fresh on a daily basis. I love my smoothies to sip on between clients as they are so full of fresh vegetables, fruit, coconut water, probiotics and any other superfood goodness that I have at home. Keeping my energy and blood sugar levels stable is extremely important so that I can  remain focused on each of my clients to provide them with the finest experience.

On the days that I finish with my clients in time I ensure that I enjoy my own practice with a yoga or pilates class at Hot Yogi or Jivamukti Yoga.  As much as I love teaching I find it such a rewarding experience to learn from another as well. On the other days when I finish later with my clients I head home to whip up a delicious home cooked dinner for my husband and I, followed by a walk to just reflect on my day and catch up with what the hubby was up to.

4. How do you ease your client’s discomfort during colon hydrotherapy?

I bring out my yoga teacher side and we just breathe together. I guide my client, much like in a meditation class, to close the eyes and take deep belly breaths.

 

However, to be perfectly honest, when I come back into the room after my client has changed and laid down on the bed, they are already relaxed. I clear the energy in the room at the start and often throughout the process to make sure it’s a place of serenity and calmness.

I also enjoy educating my clients about the process of a colonic and its benefits as I myself do not believe in doing anything without knowing how this will enrich my life. I find it important to remind my clients that a colonic, in the form of an enema, has been around since 1500BC, so this is nothing new.

5. What type of clients have come to you for colon hydrotherapy?

Always a good question. My  clients come to me for all different and varying reason. Some people may be looking for a simple detox, on a juice cleanse or combined with the Juice Detox Program that Exhale offers in conjunction with Detox Delivered. Other people approach me for constipation problems, chronic loose bowels, rheumatoid arthritis, migraines, systemic candida, parasites, between IVF rounds and those preparing for pregnancy non IVF, pre and post cancer treatment, or before and after a long flight, and those who are prepping for a colonoscopy…just to name a few!

6. How do you make the taboo a healthy topic to discuss around the dinner table?

Funnily enough, people love to talk about poo! I never go into the details of what I see during a treatment (especially at the dinner table) but rather bring the conversation around to how 80-90% of diseases starts in the colon. Also, surprisingly 80% of our immune system is in the colon, and serotonin is created in the colon.  And then the conversation flows from there. Most people have no idea how important their large intestine in to the general health and well-being of their entire body!

7. In your opinion what are people doing or not doing on a day-to- day basis that contributes to internal toxicity?

In the States there is a store called ‘Whole Foods’. I’m sure you have heard of it or someone you know that has come back from California and has raved about it. Those two words ‘Whole’ and ‘Foods’ is where we have strayed from.

As a whole, westernised humans have become lazy.  We search for things that are quick, easy and ready made and therefore aren’t mindful of our choices.  These convenient meals, either in the supermarket freezer aisle masquerading themselves under the titles of ‘Lite’, 99% Fat Free’, and ‘Fresh, All Natural’, or alternatively, from the nearest take away shop using your handy menulog app (no need to even leave the comfort of your own lounge and pyjamas anymore) are packed with chemicals, bulking agents and nothing that resembles food…let alone Whole Food! This is only one reason I believe we are experiencing more internal toxicity in today’s society.

Secondly, in the hustle and bustle of the 21st century and especially for the city goers out there, we are not actively thinking about how and what we absorb into our bodies…the environment! Whether we see it or not the air we breath is not what it once was. Pollution is all around us. We may not see it as they do in LA (smog in the air), but we aren’t breathing in clean fresh air all the time (don’t even get me started on the exhaust fumes that are trapped in the M5 tunnel). Air pollution contains particulates, chemicals, and biological materials which significantly impact our lives resulting heart disease, lung cancer, and respiratory infections.

I am a firm believer in taking ownership to make a positive impact on my environment. This now comes innately to how I live my life. I have become a fan of taking

public transport (great way to catch up on my reading), I naturally love walking so will take any chance I get to walk to my destination giving myself that timeout which is needed everyday. Through these walks I can honestly say some my best ideas and insights have come to me. Also, one of my favourite ways that do not only benefit my health, but actively reduce air pollution involves firstly shopping at farmers markets (nothing better than fresh fruit and vegetables that is grown locally) and then using these fresh ingredients in my snazzy kitchen to whip up a smoothie or meal that is not pre-packaged and mass produced. This is important to avoid all those nasty extra additives, flavourings, preservatives and colourings. “The body is your temple. Keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in” . ~ B.K.S lyengar

Lastly, for us ladies (and maybe men, no judgement here), we need to look at the makeup we use. Yes MAC, Chanel, and Lancome all have all the fancy packaging to accompany the dazzling posters of the models with smooth radiant skin that is accentuated by the great contouring and highlights and photoshop…but let’s go deeper and look at the ingredients in them that we happily put on our skin, our face, and our eyes!

Many studies have been done over the years investigating the harmful effects that make-up can have on our own health. According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), “we apply an average of 126 unique ingredients to our skin daily through our cosmetics and personal care products” (Luk Beautifood, 2014). Additional research from the Extension Toxicology Network says that “Chemicals can be absorbed through skin and into the bloodstream, causing toxic effects.” Scary isn’t it?! Not to mention the world of animal testing that these companies do, but that’s another story altogether.

So everyone, be mindful about not only how your choice of cosmetic brands affect your own health, but please think about the cute fluffy bunny being subjected to chemicals dripped into their eyes to test for eye irritations and  corrosions (The Humane Society of The United States, 2014).

Today, there are a range of easily accessible and affordable cosmetic brands on the market such as Luk Beautifood. This brand encapsulates my true belief on respecting your body through “harnessing the beauty of food…nourishing your whole body with healthy food is central to cultivating your natural beauty; what you put on your body should be as nutritious and safe as what you eat” (Luk Beautifood). This speaks volumes in my world and is extremely important in reducing toxins in our every-day lives. Luk Beautifood is cruelty free, recyclable using sustainable packaging,  toxin free, and 100% natural with each and every product from the  ‘100% Pure Dark Chocolate Mascara’ to the ‘Chai Shimmer Lip Nourish’. This encompasses the first pillar on how Luk Beautifood is shaping the future; ‘Food Active: Our products are made with a potent mix of active foods that feed your skin with nutrients, hydration and protective antioxidants + anti-inflammatories while actively contributing to your health and wellbeing” (Luk Beautifood).

8. How did you develop a passion for Colon Hydrotherapy and how does this link to your values?

My first experience with colonics was not just one treatment but a full 7 day Bernard Jensen Colon Cleanse. This cleanse involved a colonic everyday for 7 days while having psyllium and bentonite shakes and supplements, that was all for 7 days! For each of those 7 days that I had a colonic more and more “stuff” was released. I couldn’t believe I had that much stuff in me!

After those 7 days I felt the best I ever did, completely cleansed both in body and mind, that was in 2002 by the way. My skin was radiant, my eyes were the brightest they had ever been, my body was working at its optimum and better than it had, I felt like I was 18 again! I was convinced there was something to all this.

I have always been sensitive to certain foods and through these intolerances my own interest in researching nutrition and getting a firm grasp on this evolved. I found

that through experimenting and eliminating slowly in my own diet I managed to identify those foods didn’t serve me and focused rather on consuming what made me feel good on the inside and out (looking at your eyes, nails, skin and hair are a good indicator of what is happening internally).

Fast forward a few years I took my general passion for nutrition and my own experiences to become a yoga teacher and received my certification in Holistic Nutrition as well as Wellness Consulting,  providing me with the opportunity to start performing colonics and sharing the good tummy happiness all around.

My father was diagnosed with Colorectal cancer approximately the same time I started working as a Colon Hydrotherapist. This news hit me pretty hard and it was like the exclamation point on the fact that I am here to educate people about the health and wellbeing of their guts. Luckily the doctors detected my dad’s Colorectal cancer early and he is living a happy and healthy life. Not only through my own belief that protecting and nourishing the colon is essential to your health, also through experiencing this type of cancer so close to home aids in my passion to advocate so strongly for this cause through prevention, treatment and also the after care, as all three are imperative.

Over to you: Have you experienced a colonic or detox? How have they benefited you?