As we are continually exposed to these toxins, our detoxification system becomes overloaded: toxic metabolites accumulate and sensitivity to other chemicals, some of which are not normally toxic, become progressively greater. This accumulation of toxins can wreak havoc on normal metabolic processes and may be expressed through the symptoms of disease. Detoxification and cleansing are ideally suited at each change of the seasons, for acute and chronic conditions, and can be tailored to individual needs and goals.

Some Components of Detoxification and Cleansing

Constitutional Hydrotherapy treatments stimulate healing by enhancing the oxygenation and circulation of the blood and lymph, promoting better digestion and absorption of nutrients to the cells, increasing the oxidation and elimination of toxins, strengthening the general defenses of the immune system, and by assisting in the restoration of nervous equilibrium. Patients of all ages can benefit from these treatments.

Hydrotherapy works through the mechanism of applying alternating hot and cold towels directly to the skin. This facilitates the movement of increased blood circulation to the skin and other organs of elimination/detoxification. The reverse direction of circulation facilitates enhanced re-oxygenation at the cellular level, promoting oxygen delivery coupled with the removal of carbon dioxide and waste. A typical session lasts about 60 minutes and can be used for both acute and chronic conditions. Examples of what might be treated include: asthma, arthritis, bronchitis, colds and flus, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, headaches and sinus infections.

Far Infra-red Sauna is a technically-advanced system that operates at temperatures of 110 to130 degrees Fahrenheit (versus conventional saunas that typically operate between 180 to 220 degrees Fahrenheit). The infra-red rays penetrate 11/2 inches below the skin, causing the body to sweat at 110 degrees, versus the conventional sauna temperature of 200 degrees. In addition to the detoxification/cleansing effect of the sauna, additional benefits include:

Pain Relief: Infra-red heat can help relieve pain by dilating blood vessels, which causes increased blood circulation and allows more oxygen to get to the injured area. This helps to reduce pain and facilitate the healing process. Infra-red heat has also been used extensively in the treatment of arthritis, rheumatism and muscle spasms.

Weight Control: Use of infra-red sauna can augment weight loss and weight management by facilitating an increase in heart rate, cardiac output, and metabolic rate, which consumes considerable energy (or, calories). Weight loss is possible because body fat becomes water soluble at 110 degrees Fahrenheit, and the body can sweat out fats, toxins, and heavy metals that become lodged in our fat cells.

Fasting is the third leg of the triad for detoxification and cleansing. Fasting is defined as abstinence from all food and drink, except water, for a specific period of time, usually for a therapeutic or religious purpose. This process spares essential tissue (e.g., vital organs) while utilizing non-essential tissue (e.g., adipose tissue, digestive enzymes, muscle contractile fibers, and glycolytic enzymes) for fuel. There are certainly many variations of this type of fasting that are popular and in use today. In the context of a “spring cleanse” type of protocol, the fasting period would be of a short (1 to 3 days) duration.

Toxins Targeted for Elimination
A toxin is defined as any compound that has a detrimental effect on cell function or structure. Some common toxins include heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, nickel, cadmium and aluminum; chemical toxins, such as prescription drug residues, alcohol and tobacco; microbial compounds, including bacteria and yeast; and industrial compounds, such as solvents, pesticides, and herbicides.

Goals of Detoxification
The goals of detoxification and cleansing are to promote health and wellness on many levels of our lives. This might include: increased energy; improved mental clarity and function; improved digestion and elimination; enhanced immune system and resistance to infection or illness; improved blood circulation; healthy skin; improved libido and sexual function; and improved mood and sense of well-being.

Detoxification and cleansing have an important place in the role of preventive healthcare to promote health and wellness, as well as in the treatment of acute and chronic conditions. A detoxification and cleansing program can be designed for an individual’s specific health condition and wellness goals through a knowledgeable provider.