Journey II Health, LLC
716-298-8603
Journey Services
At Journey II Health, LLC, we take care to provide our clients high quality services personalized for their unique needs. Our staff members are professional, courteous and efficient. We provide a variety of services including:
COLON HYDROTHERAPY - COLONICS
INTRODUCTION Many people today are choosing to take an active and responsible role for their health and well being. People need to be taught how to maintain and manage their own bodies and part of the colon therapist’s job is to teach people how to become self sufficient—not reliant on others.
The use of colon hydrotherapy in the treatment of disease can be dated back as far as the mid-1800’s. Despite considerable research in the early part of the century documenting its therapeutic effectiveness, it continues to be a highly controversial and often misunderstood form of therapy. Advances in medical technology have put bowel management in the background which has brought a loss of awareness of the importance of the bowel in relation to disease, and hense, the importance of Colon Therapy to heal disease.
Properly applied Colon Therapy consists of more than simply flushing the bowel. It involves thorough, individual assessment such as evaluation of environmental, immunological and psychosomatic influences. Based on this information, the appropriate therapeutic procedures are discussed and executed. The goals of Colon Therapy are fourfold:
• to bring about efficient elimination of waste
• to restore tissue and organ function
• to rebalance overall body chemistry
• and last but not least, to teach clients to be responsible for their own health
COMMON QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
What is colonic irrigation?
Also known as a “colonic”, “colon lavage”, “colon hydrotherapy”, “high colonic”, colon irrigation is a safe, effective method for cleansing the colon of waste material by repeated, gentle flushing with filtered water that is a comfortable temperature. In a 30 to 45 minute session, as much as 20 to 35 gallons of water are used to gently flush the colon. Through appropriate use of massage, pressure points, reflexology, breathing techniques, suggestion etc., the colon therapist is able to work loose and eliminate far more toxic waste than any other short term technique. Having an experienced colon therapist available can be likened to having a professional mechanic repair your automobile’s engine. The second and subsequent colonics will remove more. How many and how often will depend on your personal objectives. We have found that the majority of individuals need approximately 6 colonics with no longer than 1 weeks between visits. If you did 3-4 colonics in 1-1.5 weeks the same results may be achieved in a much shorter time.
What is the colon and what does it do?
The colon, also known as the large intestine, is the end portion of the human digestive tract. The colon is approximately 5 feet long and 2 inches in diameter. Most of us have distended our colons to a larger dimention and therefore act as holding tanks for a large amount of fecal matter. The main functions are to eliminate waste and conserve water.
What is the purpose of having a colonic?
Waste material, especially that which has remained in the colon for some time (i.e. impacted feces, dead cellular tissue, accumulated mucous, parasites, worms etc.) pose several problems. First, this material is quite toxic (poisonous). These poisons can re-enter and circulate the bloodstream making us feel ill, tired or weak. Second, impacted materials impair the colon’s ability to assimilate minerals and bacteria – produced vitamins. And finally, build-up of material on the colon wall can inhibit muscular action causing sluggish bowel movements, constipation and the result of these disorders.
How can I tell if I have toxic material in my colon?
Bowel toxicity is prevalent in all civilized societies, particularly in North America. Common signs include; headaches, backaches, constipation, fatigue, bad breath, body odor, irritability, confusion, acne, abdominal gas and bloating, diarrhea, sciatic pain and so forth. As you can see, intestinal toxicity is part and parcel of many people’s everyday experience.
Why not use enemas, suppositories or laxatives instead?
Well, everything has its proper place, but most those things really aren’t substitutes for colonics. Enemas are useful for emptying the rectum, the lowest 8-12 inches of the colon. Usually, one or two quarts of water are used to do that. Suppositories are intended to accomplish the same task. Laxatives, particularly herbal laxatives, are formulated are formulated for constipation and/or to build up the tone of the colon muscle. The Rolls Royce of colon cleansing without question is colonic irrigation.
What will colonics do to the colon?
1. Cleanses the colon – toxic material is broken down so it can no longer harm your body. Even fecal material that has built up over time is gently and surely removed in the process of a series of irrigations. Once impacted material is removed, your colon can begin again to cooperate as it was meant to. In this very real sense, a colonic is a rejuvenation treatment.
2. Exercises the colon muscles- the build up of toxic debris weakens the colon and impairs its functioning. The gentle filling and emptying of the colon improves peristaltic (muscular contractility) activity by which the colon naturally moves material.
3. Reshapes the colon- when problem conditions exist in the colon, they tend to alter its shape, which in turn causes more problems. The gentle action of the water, coupled with the massage techniques of the colon therapist, helps to eliminate bulging pockets of water and narrowed, spastic constrictions finally enabling the colon to resume its natural state.
4. Stimulates reflex points - every system of the organ of the body is connected to the colon reflex points. A colonic irrigation stimulates these points, thereby affecting the corresponding body parts in a beneficial way (similar to reflexology).
What are the additional benefits I might expect from a colonic?
There are many benefits you can expect. You will learn to expand your awareness of your body’s functioning by listening to signals from your abdomen, skin, face, and even your bowel habits. You will spot conditions early before they become something more severe.
The solar plexus is the emotional center of the body and the transverse colon passes right through it. If an emotional event is left uncompleted, it often results in physical tension being stored in the solar plexus, which affects all organs in this area, including the colon. This results in constipation. Not only do colonics relieve constipation, they can assist you in recognizing and releasing the stored emotions causing the problem.
Other benefits include: decreased gas and bloating, increased alertness, more frequent bowel movements, decreased mucous, detect parasites, clarify the whites of the eyes, clear the skin, minimize age and liver spots, improve alertness, helps to minimize withdrawal from drugs, alcohol and nicotine, improves mood, lessens symptoms associated with PMS, menopause and depression, minimizes allergies, reduces occurrence of headaches, reduces symptoms associated with IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) , diverticulosis and spastic colon. Those who suffer from hemorrhoids will also see improvement.
Is a colonic painful?
It rarely is. Usually, painful experiences are the result of resistance and tension. A professional colon therapist is skilled at putting you at ease and minimizing any discomfort. Most people enjoy the colonic and are especially pleased with the sensation of feeling lighter, clean and clearer afterward. Sometimes during a colonic, the colon muscles will contract suddenly expelling considerable amounts of liquid and waste into the rectum. This may be precipitated by a brief episode of cramping and/or urgency. Such episodes, if they occur, are brief and easily tolerated.
Is it embarrassing to get a colonic?
NO! You will fully maintain your personal dignity. You will be in a private room with only your therapist, who fully appreciates the sensitivity of this procedure and will help you feel at ease. Your emotions are acknowledged and honored. After the gentle insertion of the small tube into the rectum, you are completely covered. Rubber tubing carries clean water in and waste out in a closed gravity system. There is no odor and no mess with a colonic.
How do I prepare for a colonic?
Water consumption and a high fiber diet (real foods such as fruits and vegetables) produce the best results. If your diet is less than perfect, we recommend a light diet of fruits, vegetables and whole grains the day before. On the day of your colonic, avoid eating 2 hours prior to your procedure but drinking water and herbal teas are OK. If your colonic is very early, it is OK to eat lightly.
What can I expect afterwards?
Most likely you will feel great. You will probably feel lighter and enjoy a greater sense of well being. Someone getting their first colonic usually remarks that it was one of the most wonderful experiences of their life. Any activity you would ordinarily do, such as work or exercise, is fine to do afterwards. For some, the colonic may trigger several subsequent bowel movements for the next few hours, but there won’t be any uncontrollable urgency or discomfort. It’s also possible to feel chilled for a few minutes after a colonic.
Why would a series of colonics be beneficial?
It is important that you be aware of your objective when working with a colon therapist. For example, if your objective is to recover from the flu, lower a fever or relieve lower back pain, one or two colonics may be all you need. However, perhaps your objective is to overcome a life-long habit of constipation, to learn to create multiple daily bowel movements and to achieve vital health. To do this may require, in addition to dietary, exercise and attitudinal changes, regular colonics for some time. How many depends on the condition of your body and how well it responds to treatment.
Are colonics dangerous ?
Being an essentially natural process, there is virtually no danger with a colonic. Our intent is to provide a safe and health promoting service. Our products are sterile and we adhere to strict guidelines in the upkeep of our equipment. Purified water free of chlorine and sediment is mandatory. Chlorine destroys good bacteria in the colon.
Will colonics upset the electrolyte balance? The majority of material released during a colonic is formed stool that already had the fluid and electrolytes removed from it. So the amount lost is very minimal and easily replaced by the body from the food and fluid we ingest.
Will colonics wash out my beneficial intestinal flora (healthy bacteria) and nutrients?
The truth is that washing out putrefied material from the large intestine, which is only partially reached in any colon irrigation, increases the good intestinal flora. Good bacteria can only breed in a clean environment. We highly recommend you take probiotics while investing the time and money in cleaning out your colon. You will get a dose following each treatment-- but we recommend daily use.
Will having colonics help improve my immune system?
The removal of old stagnant waste and toxic residue could rejuvenate the immune tissue that resides in the intestines. Recent European studies speculate that 80% of the immune tissue resides in the intestines. This leads us to believe that this type of therapy could influence such immune deficiency diseases as cancer and AIDS. Colon hydrotherapy is not a cure-all, but an important adjunctive therapy in the overall health care of the client.
How long does a colonic take?
Your first appointment will probably last 1.5 hours. The actual colonic procedure takes 30-40 minutes. There will be approx 15 minutes prior to the session in which you will change and have a deep intestinal massage to maximize results. Results will be discussed during and after the procedure. Subsequent appointments should last about 1 hour.
Can I eat after having a colonic?
We recommend that you eat a moderate amount of whatever seems gentle and nourishing to you. Just as it does not make sense to wash your car then drive through mud, eating a meal known to cause trouble is not an intelligent choice. Salads, vegetables, fruits soups and broths are your best choices.
Will one colonic empty the colon?
Almost never. First of all, many of us have impacted feces (hardened, rubbery or wall-like matter that weighs about 8-15lbs) in our colons. Substantial work must be done to remove it. One colonic will remove some of the stagnant waste. The second and subsequent colonics will remove more.
How expensive is a colonic?
As of this writing 10/2011 the cost of a single colonic is $80.00
PROCEDURE FOR FIRST COLONIC IRRIGATION
You will be asked about your medical history. Your goals, objectives and concerns will be discussed. You will be asked to undress from the waist down and will be given a gown to cover up. You will have the opportunity to relieve your bladder. An abdominal massage will take place. Instructions will be given how to lie on the table while gentle insertion of a rectal tube is accomplished. Filling and flushing of the colon begins. Waste material can be viewed by the client with a specially designed view tube. Cleansing lasts 30-40 minutes. The rectal tube is gently removed and you are given ample opportunity for a final visit to the bathroom. After this we treat you to bioavailable electrolyte water and you may resume your day as usual
BIOIDENTICAL HORMONE (BHRT) & ANTIAGING THERAPIES
Journey II Health, LLC is proud to announce the addition of BioIdentical and AntiAging Therapies. These are preventative and restorative therapies to slow the aging process, avoid degeneration and prevent disease. Journey II Health has a reputation for optimal cleansing and nutritional protocols and is now taking our clients to the next level with anti-aging therapies and bioidentical hormones. We have partnered with Labrix, Pine Pharmacy and University Compounding Pharmacy in order to provide you excellence in testing and compounding specifically FOR YOU. You are a unique individual and our protocols are customized very specifically to achieve excellent results.
What can I expect from BHRT& AntiAging Therapies at Journey II Health?
Nutritional Guidance and Weight Management- especially if Insulin Resistance or Type II Diabetes is an issue
Cleansing Protocols
Supplement and food recommendations customized to your test results and personal profile
More energy
Weight loss (if needed)
Improved digestion and elimination
Improved skin quality and texture
No more "brain fog" and fatigue
Reduce ADRENAL stress (which contributes to abdominal fat)
Improve thyroid function
Normalize cholesterol levels (without drugs)
Prevent heart disease, Alzheimer's and cancer
Prevents bone loss
PROMOTES AN OVER-ALL FEELING of WELL-BEING
How do I start this amazing process?
Call our office 298-8603 to pick up a kit or have us send one right to you. If you have questions that our staff cannot answer and would like a short consult we can arrange that for you. To save you time and money, we will have you complete the testing prior to your consultation. By doing this, we make the most of your time and the appointment. Recommendations and compounded prescriptions will be given, along with nutritional guidelines and suggestions for optimizing the results for you.
What experience does the practitioner have?
Catherine Stack has over twenty two years of experience in women's health. She works closely with a number of physicians at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital. Cathi has added a naturopathic approach as a Doctor of Naturopathy. Fascinated by the results she has seen in anti-aging (preventative) medicine she continues to educate at regular intervals, bringing these therapies and services to Journey II Health. She has improved the quality of life for hundreds of individuals and strives to achieve excellent outcomes. Once an established client, you will have direct access to Cathi so you can reach her at anytime.
Will this replace my OB/GYN or Primary Doctor?
NO! The purpose of this therapy is to optimize your health. We require that you have seen your OB/GYN or Primary Physician with in the past year or two (depending on age). Copies of blood work and other tests are very helpful in customizing your therapy, so we encourage you to bring them! If you have not seen your doctor, we require you do so before setting up an appointment.
What is the cost?
Information and test kit .......... $10 (pickup).........$15 (If you'd like it mailed)
Saliva testing -- payable to Labrix directly when you mail in the test. Some insurances will cover a portion of the cost. You will be required to mail in a copy of your insurance information. Cost of testing is approximately $180.00 *It has been our experience that insurance does not cover the cost of the lab.
Consultation/ Review of Labs/ Treatment - 1.5 hours ....$150.00
Cost of compounded hormones- vary based on needs (insurance coverage and co-pays apply)
Supplements- vary based on individual needs
3 month followup -You will repeat testing (approx 180.00) prior to this visit- $80
9 month followup (testing not necessary unless symptomatic) $80--- testing and appointments can be yearly after this.
*Yearly visits are manditory for prescription refills
****Follow-up appointments are NECESSARY for renewal of prescriptions***** They will NOT be renewed over the phone
Does insurance cover any of this?
That is very individual based on coverage. Most do not. Journey II Health, LLC does not submit paper work to insurance providers at anytime. Some FLEX plans are accepted. Please note that some co-pays on prescriptions are not covered unless your primary care provider writes them. If this is the case for you, we will work with your physician.
As you can see, were are very cost effective compared with others providing this therapy. We have an excellent repuation when it comes to nutrition education and digestive health and are striving for excellence by adding BHRT and Anti-Aging modalities. Your health, vitality and longevity is so important to us and we will go above and beyond to help you achieve it.
WELLNESS AND REJUVENATION CONSULTATION w/ Catherine Stack, Doctor of Naturopathy
Offers an indepth look at common health issues you may have and offers a natural and holistic approach to addressing them. Nutritional Guidelines will be developed based on your body type and individual needs. This session may include: Blood typing,nutritional guidelines based on symptoms and metabolic profile, supplement recommendations and other modalities to best assist you in you desire for optimal health.
$150 - 1.5hr
Follow-up visit 80.00 (1hr)
PHONE CONSULTATIONS AVAILABLE FOR WELLNESS AND BIO-IDENTICAL CONSULTS
Call for instructions and paperwork.
$125.00 initial phone consult (approx 1hr)
75.00 follow-up(approx 30min)
IONIC FOOT DETOX (AQUA-CHI)
Aqua-Chi is a revolutionary new technology that operates with the use of water (aqua) because water is the basis of all function. This therapy is based on bioenergetics technology, creating an energy field similar to the energy produced by the body (chi). This field stimulates cellular energy and enhances the body's ability to internally cleanse itself naturally, at an increased rate, restoring and normalizing the body's correct pH balance and energy levels.
We are constantly being exposed to unhealthy levels of pollution, toxins and heavy metals. The body's ability to cleanse itself becomes overloaded and the toxic buildup ultimately leads to ailments such as : Allergies, arthritis,immune deficiencies, migraines, fatigue, decreased muscle function and fexibility, cancer, heart disease, circulatory problems and memory impairments.
WHAT TO EXPECT: You will be taken to a room where your feet will be soaked for 30 minutes in warm water. The Aqua-Chi module is inserted in the water (sea salt added) and your session begins. A comfortable chair and relaxing music makes this a treat! You will be amazed at the results!
Testimonials include relief from; arthritis, fibromyalgia, gout, gastric reflux, aches and pains, sinus & allergy relief, eczema, lower extremity swelling, better sleep, better energy levels and overall wellness.
A series of 6 - 12 treatments two to three days apart are recommended for maximum results (most notice an improvement after 2 treatments).
FIR(Far Infrared Ray) INFRARED TECHNOLOGY (BLANKET)
Far Infrared is the "chi" energy in humans and animals also emitted from sunlight. The intensity of Far Infrared produced in the body constantly fluctuates. When its intensity is high, we feel healthy and are able to overcome ailments. When the Far Infrared (FIR) begins to decline, we are subject to disease and illness and tend to age more quickly. Far Infrared heat will not burn the skin even if exposed for hours. It is safe and therapeutic for all living things.
WHAT TO EXPECT: You will be asked to bring light clothing such as a pair of scrubs or a night gown. If you are using the treatment for a healthy slimming effect, problem areas will be wrapped in film to promote sweating. You are placed in a FIR Infrared warming blanket, with your arms wrapped seperately (for a feeling that is less confining). The blanket is then heated anywhere from 70F to 150F depending on treatment. Background music will help you relax and unwind during this session which lasts approximately 60 minutes.
WHAT DOES FIR INFRARED THERAPY DO? It expands capillaries (improves blood flow & oxygenation), is an excellent detox, stimulates enzyme activity and metabolism, promotes the killing of many pathogenic (disease causing) bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. It rebuilds injured tissues, relieves pain, burns calories (up to 600-800 per session), relieves nervous tension and strengthens the cardiac and immune systems.
EAR CANDLING
There is a great deal of controversey about what ear candling actually do or does not do. Ear candling does not remove piles of ear wax from the ear but may assist in softening. What we are learning is that the actual flame has the ability to change the aura "energy field" around the person. Fire warms and dries things, making one lighter and more energetic. Even though this explanation may be hard to swallow or comprehend, hundreds of people will atest to the many benefits of ear candling.
What are some of the health beneficial effects that we have observed from ear candling? We get less congested, less mucous, and even less lymphatic edema. We have more energy, more immune resistance and a better circulation. We feel lighter and less depressed. These changes are brought about in the "air" within which the candle burns. These changes occur in the aura, or enegy field of the person, and from there, the changed energy field is expressed in the material world. Hence, the body changes to!!!!! No changes in the physical can happen without changes occuring in the the energy field first.
Journey II Health provides safe and effective ear candling in combination with soothing aroma therapy. Super-Quantum Tone Music is added to this treatment for maximum benefits. Treatment time is approximately 45 min.
MASSAGE/REFLEXOLOGY
Massage is one of the oldest healing arts: Chinese records dating back 3,000 years document its use. Massage benefits and provides relief for people of all ages and all walks of life. Massage has many physiological effects, such as:
Increases circulation, allowing the body to pump more oxygen and nutrients to tissues and vital organs
Stimulates and helps to detox the lymph system- the body's natural defense system.
Relaxing and soften injured and overused muscles.
Reduces spasms and cramping
Increases joint flexibility.
Releases endorphins, the body's natural piankiller....and so many more benefits
REFLEXOLOGY
Reflexology is the application of pressure, stretch and movement to the feet and hands to effect corresponding parts of the body. Reflexologists view the feet and hands as a mirror image of the body. By applying technique a reflexologist can break up patterns of stress in other parts of the body.
How does reflexology work?
There are many theories but in our approach we look at the nervous system as the explanation of reflexology's working. Pressure applied to the feet generates a signal through the peripheral nervous system. From there it enters the central nervous system where it is processed in various parts of the brain. It is then relayed to the internal organs to allocate the necessary adjustments in fuel and oxygen, Finally a response is fashioned that is sent onto the motor system. This message is feed forward to adjust the body's tone or overall tension level. If applied properly the tone will reset itself to a lower operating tempo. A lower operating tempo means a lessening of stress and less wear and tear on the body's systems.
Where do you apply technique?
We apply techniques to the feet and hands. There is a school of thought that also applies it to the ear arguing it is also reflexology. The techniques, however, are modified from auricular therapy, an acupuncture technique. It could be argued that all bodywork is reflexive therefore reflexology. We find that the extremities have a powerful influence because of locomotion. While we acknowledge that repeated patterns exist throughout the body we find our most effective focus to be the feet and hands.
What are the benefits of reflexology ?
In general terms the benefits of reflexology have to do with the reduction of stress. Because the feet and hands help set the tension level for the rest of the body they are an easy way to interrupt the stress signal and reset homeostasis, the body's equilibrium. Whether reflexology can benefit certain conditions and diseases in still under investigation. Further scientific study need to be done in order to come to some definite benefits of reflexology in regard to illness and disease. Reflexology is a complement to standard medical care. It should not be construed as medical advice. It should not be a replacement to medical help. Please use it wisely. We care about your safety.
SHIRO DHARA-an Ayurvedic Relaxation Treatment.
This deeply relaxing treatment using warm herbalized oils poured in a gentle stream over the forehead. This procedure synchronizes brain waves and profoundly coordinates and calms the body, mind and spirit. ShiroDhara also balances the endocrine system, enhances bloodflow to the brain, improves memory, nourishes the hair and scalp and generally aids in release of stress and tension.
Shirodhara begins with a gentle neck, shoulder and arm massage, then progresses into the Shirodhara treatment followed by a rejuvenating scalp and head massage. This is our definition of BLISS!
ACU DETOX THERAPY
Have you decided that you are ready to quit smoking?
Are you working hard to maintain your recovery program?
Are you struggling with anxiety or insomnia?
ACUDETOX MIGHT BE JUST WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR! Our program includes; detox acupuncture, counseling and supportive services, herbal detox, meditation and imagery.
AcuDetox is a 5 point auricular (ear) acupuncture treatment protocol established by the National Addiction and Detoxification Association. Acupuncture is performed by placing thin, sterile needles into both ears. AcuDetox is best given in a group setting for about 45 minutes. It is thought that the intention and energy of the group provides added benefit.
AcuDetox is most commonly used for; smoking, alcohol, substance and sugar addictions. It is also used for anxiety, depression, irritability and other problems in which there is a mind-body disconnect. It has been helpful in pain management as well. AcuDetox has reportedly helped patients with the symptoms of withdrawal, feeling inner peace and calm, sleeping better, are not as anxious and feel more present in the moment.
"the auricular acupuncture treatment for smoking cessation is by far the safest and most powerful method available to assist smokers to quit or reduce their intake"- Warren Whitfield- ADT specialist, Acudetox Centre, South Africa
AUSTRALIAN BUSH FLOWER ESSENCES
What are they?
Flowers essences are not therapeutic drugs- but work on the mind, body and spirit and are obtained by extracting the vibrational quality from the most evolved part of the plant, the flower. they work on an emotional level, harmonizing feelings and belief patterns held in the subconscious mind. This concept of healing was utilized and promoted by great healers such as Hippocrates, Paracelsus, Hahnemann and Bach who all believed that good health was the result of emotional, spiritual and mental harmony. They found that when treating a patient's emotional imbalances, their diseases were cured. Disease therefore, can be seen as an indication that something in a persons life is out of balance. Flower essesces help bring forth each persons positive qualities and thus restore balance harmony and health.
Are they safe to use with other treatments?
Yes. Flower essences can be used alongside pharmaceutical and other alternative treatments such as herbs, acupuncture or homeopathics. They are perfectly safe, without side effects and are self adjusting for adults as well as children.
What conditions to they work for?
Eating disorders, drug, alcohol, niccotine and food addictions, depression, anxiety, fear, ADD, ADHD, fear of public speaking, self esteem issues, cognition, sleep disorders, improve meditation, relationship issues, menopause, pregnancy issues, travel sickness and more...
How can I get a personalized flower essence?
A thourough evaluation w/ Dr Renee Bosi will be conducted to determine appropriate essences and a dosage bottle will be made up with an individual's specific remedy. There are also ready made formulas that deal with common problems.
EMOTIONAL COUNSELING
This unique emotional counseling integrates comprehensive healing of mind and body with a naturopathic approach. Services include emotional/behavioral counseling, stress management, preventive health and immunity, acupuncture detoxification, and a natural approach to reclaiming your health and well being.
