LINDA'S BLOG:

Phew I'm back after an absence of a few weeks.  Abolutely no time to blog in December and January.  They are my busiest months for colon hydrotherapy.  I wonder why?  No prizes for guessing.

I've been in full-time practice over 20 years now and 2011 was my busiest year ever.  Not sure if it's more awareness and education about the importance of bowel hygiene and health, or word is just getting out that colon hydrotherapy does what it says on the tin.  Just read the colonic testimonial page on this website to see what people have experienced through colon hydrotherapy.  It is such a simple therapy, yet it can be so powerful, particularly when someone has abdominal pain, bloating, gas, constipation/diarrhoea, skin problems.

As well as working 6 days a week in the Clinic, a lot of my time is taken up as Vice-Chair of the UK Colonic Association, www.colonic-association.org The Association of Registered Colon Hydrotherapists (ARCH).  In the past year, ARCH  have launched a new website, twitter, a youtube channel and facebook.  ARCH are using social media more nowadays to create awareness and education about the benefits and safety of modern naturopathic colon hydrotherapy, when carried out by ARCH therapists. ARCH want to dispel a lot of the misconceptions, misunderstandings and urban legends about colon hydrotherapy.  

I must admit that it can be very confusing for the public when choosing a colon hydrotherapist.  Where do they go?  How do they know their therapist is properly qualified, insured, regulated?  Well, I can assure you that if you decide to have treatment with an ARCH trained therapist, you are in safe hands.  All ARCH therapists are registered with the UK regulator in Complementary Therapy, The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council www.cnhc.org and ARCH therapists are THE ONLY colon hydrotherapists to have reached this standard.

If you want to learn more about ARCH, check out the Association website and/or go to www.facebook.com/archcolonics  You can follow us on twitter too @archcolonics

PLEASE START FROM THE 19TH NOVEMBER, BELOW AND WORK YOUR WAY UP TO THE 27TH NOVEMBER.

27 NOVEMBER 2011

On the dining table at breakfast today, was the quote "The beginning is the most important part of the work" by Plato.

Today being a Sunday, most of the Medical staff are off for the day, so I only have one treatment booked at 9am.  I then have the rest of the day at my disposal.  Viva have a well stocked library of books and DVD's so may go and investigate. 

Breakfast was a piece of poached salmon (very small piece I might add) with rice crackers and Yang tea with honey and orange juice. I enjoyed every morsel.

Before I go down for breakfast, every morning, I take my Epsom Salts and Viva Base Powder. The Base Powder contains alkalising salts. It's a nutritional supplement that improves the regulation of the acid-base metabolism and provides essential minerals. A well balanced acid-base metabolism is essential to all metabolic processes and good health. It contains calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium citrate, magnesium and phosphorous, in specific quantities.  It contains no artificial colours, additives or flavourings.

The Epsom Salts is prepared for you every evening at Viva, and is available in Reception.  You take a glass up to your room when you retire for the night, around 9.30.  In the morning when you wake up, the first thing you drink is the Epsom Salts and Viva Base Powder.   I add a level teaspoon of the Base Powder into the already prepared Epsom Salts, add a little warm water, and drink it. (whilst gagging I might add - it's vile!)  I then take the Viva Base Powder, but not the Epsom Salts, three more times each day, before meals, and once before bed.  You can imagine how many times I'm having to go to the toilet!!  Viva-Mayr do offer colon hydrotherapy here also, but I certainly don't need it at the moment.

For people who have a rich diet or suffer with indigestion and/or acid reflux, the Base Powder is very effective.  It is now available in the UK from The Natural Dispensary on 01453 757792.  If you order from The Natural Dispensary, and quote my code 'my healthy bowel', you will get 10% off the price of around £25.  It can also be obtained from Revital in the UK. If anyone would like any further information on the Epsom Salts and Base Powder cleanse, they can contact me by email - lindabooth@btinternet.com

After breakfast had an hour massage with Gerfried.  Whilst at Viva-Mayr, I will be having many different types of massage, including reflexology, remedial massage, lymphatic drainage massage, cranial-sacral massage and sports massage. I asked Gerfried to concentrate on my back, neck and shoulders, which he duly did, with great gusto.  I like a deep massage.  Not into these body polishing massages, where they skim over the surface.  I like lots of cross-fibre frictioning, trigger point work and deep stripping out of the muscle fibres.  After that, I was advised by Gerfried to have a 45 minute rest then go into the Infrared Box. 

This is a booth located near the infinity swimming pool.  It seats two people quite comfortably; it has varying heat intensities from 1 - 10, and it can get very, very hot.  You have a really good sweat.  There is no steam, just dry heat.  Viva recommend this treatment for 30 minutes, at least once daily if you suffer with muscle/joint aches and pains, (which I don't) but also to speed up metabolism so helps with weight loss too.  It's beneficial for skin conditions, chest problems e.g. asthma, bronchitis, colds and migraines.  When I was at Viva in 2009 they had a similar booth, but they have now replaced it with a state of the art digital one.

As well as the Infrared Booth, Viva also have a Finnish Sauna, (hot dry heat) a Turkish Sauna, (hot wet heat) an Aromatherapy Sauna (medium dry heat) with lot of lights that change colour. There is also a couple of Saline Rooms where you can go and sit and breath in the ozone and negative ions.  Again very beneficial for people with upper respiratory tract complaints.

Now that I am feeling much more like my old self, I am going to get into the gym at Viva this afternoon. 

Went for a walk around the small village of Maria Worth, where the Viva Clinic is situated.  Everywhere is closed now that it's Winter, but I can imagine it is a different place in the Summer.  There are a few tourist shops now closed, and I know the double-decker boat drops off and picks up from the jetty in Maria Worth, but only in Summer.

They have a beautiful Catholic Church here in Maria Worth, overlooking Lake Wortesee.  It was built over 1,200 years ago, and contains the relics of two Saints.  All the graves in the Churchyard are very well kept with fresh flowers, even the older graves.

My Seminars and studies begin at the Clinic here this evening, so I will have little time to Blog.  For the remaining time I have here, 6 days, my mornings will be spent having treatments, and my afternoons in Seminars with Dr. Stossier.  If I have time, I will Blog in the evenings.

26 NOVEMBER 2011

Felt much better this morning.  Didn't have a very good night, but the horrendous headache that I've had for 4 days has disappeared. Mixed my daily dose of Base Powder and Epsom Salts. 

Every morning after taking the Base/Epsom, I have to gargle for at least 5 minutes, 10 if possible, with the Viva Mouth Oil.  They call this, 'pulling the oil'.  That's what you do, you literally take a swig of the oil (hemp seeds oil, sunflower oil, chamomile, thyme, tea tree and lemon oils) and push and pull it through your teeth.  Using your tongue you move the oil around your mouth.  This helps stimulate the salivary glands, but it also cleans your teeth and gums at the same time.  Great for gum disease and inflamed gums due to Vitamin C deficiency. Some cultures use oil to clean their teeth, instead of toothpaste and brushes.  I must say it does leave your teeth looking very clean and your mouth feels wonderfully fresh.

Had my breakfast that consisted of sheeps cheese with fresh herbs, rice cakes and herbal tea with honey and orange juice.  It was very nice and filling too.

My first treatment today was in the Kniepp Department. It was the Roeder Nasal Reflex Therapy, and I put the Q-tips up my nose again. Getting a bit of an expert at it, so watch out those colonic patients of mine, you will all be getting Q-tips shoved up your nostrils next time you come for treatment.  Mind you, those of you that suffer with sinusitis and/or rhinitis, would find welcome relief.

After the nasal therapy, it was next door for the Body Detox Electrolysis Footbath. At the end of the 15 minute session, the water looked like brown mud.

My Manual Abdominal Treatment was with Dr. Aichbichler, a lady Doctor.  You would think a lady Doctor would give you a more gentle massage wouldn't you, but no,  I think she was trying to massage through to my spine!  She gave me a very deep abdominal massage, separating the small intestine from the large, working on the ileo-cecal vale, and repositioning the intestines and the liver too.  I felt a little light-headed afterwards and went to my favourite room overlooking the lake, to recover.

Don't know if I mentioned but I keep getting these hot flushes, just my head though.  Dr. Stossier has put me on 500mg of Niacin (B3) daily so I think it's a Niacin flush.  The RDA in the UK is 16mg so I'm maxing out on B3.  Dr. Stossier practices Orthomolecular Medicine.  That's where they use mega-doses of Vitamins and Mineals to treat disease and deficiency.  When I feel as though I'm coming down with a cold, I don't take 1,000mg of Vitamin C, I take at least 6/7,000mg in the form of Magnesium Ascorbate. It's gentler on the stomach particularly if you're taking large doses.  It's quite safe to take in large doses as Vitamin C is a water soluble vitamin, so your body will just excrete what it doesn't need.

Lunch today consisted of rice cakes and a vegetable soup, with alfalfa sprouts. My friend, Camilla, who is on a different diet to me, had the juiciest organic piece of steak with vegetables. I could smell it. She said it was so tender, it almost melted in her mouth. I gave her a filthy look.

We then got changed into our civvies.  We had been in dressing gowns and slippers for four days.  The Clinic had put on a trip to Klagenfurt Christmas Market, so I grabbed a few Euros out of the safe in my room, and off we went in taxis.  Klagenfurt is a small City, but there seems to be plenty going on.  It is very clean. There is no litter and no graffiti. We spent a couple of hours walking around the market buying beautiful candles and Christmas decorations.  It was good to get some fresh air and it was a beautiful, sunny day.

Back to the Clinic, into dressing gown and slippers again, and dinner which consisted of, again rice cakes and herbal tea.  I decided to have a sauna and retire for the night to read.  I am up quite early in the morning for treatments.  I also would like to go in the gym tomorrow, or go for a swim, now that I feel better and have more energy.

25 NOVEMBER 2011

On the table, at breakfast every morning, is the Viva Newsletter. It contains information about the weather, what's happening at the Clinic, and in the local vicinity, if you feel like venturing outdoors. On the front page, is a quote and today it is by Leonardo da Vinci "A well-spent day brings happy sleep".  I had a bad night last night. Felt sick, but there was nothing in my stomach to bring up. Hunger pangs were quite intense. Just tried to get to sleep with my liver pack on. Eventually I did drop off, but had a restless night. 

Up at 7.30, 'pulling' the oil,  (must explain this to you later) preparing my Epsom Salts and alkalising powders, then had a shower. It's amazing how unpleasant your perspiration can smell when doing a detox. All the toxins are being pushed out of the skin, so not surprising really. Jumped out of the shower, and drank my Epsom Salts, whilst literally gagging. YUK!

Breakfast was very nice, for a change. I asked for some protein. I thought I would pass out otherwise. The kind waitress bought me some delicious organic Austrian salmon with sprouted alfalfa seeds, more dry buckwheat bread to chew on 50 times!, and a pot of Yang tea with fresh organic honey and freshly squeezed organic orange juice. Almost all of the food at Viva is organic and locally grown.

After breakfast, it was off the Kneipp Department again for my daly Roeder Nasal Reflex Therapy. Lindsay, one of the Kneipp Therapists asked if I would like to have a go at inserting the Q-tips myself.  I did and found it quite easy. Managed not to cause myself brain damage!  I then had half an hour before my next Manual Abdominal Massage with Dr. Stossier at 10am, so I found myself a comfortable lounger in the relaxation area near the saunas, and promptly fell asleep until 10.15!  Got up in a fluster, and ran to Medical, but they were very understanding, and said it happens all the time.  I re-scheduled my appointment and had my treatment with Dr. S at 10.45.  Some definite improvements in my intestines. More relaxed and less inflammation.  He had my thumb-prick blood work back and everything looks good, just lactic acid up at 2.9 when it should be around 1ish, but not too worried about that.  It should be back down by the end of my stay here. Sugar and minerals were ok.

Lunch consisted of organic parsnip soup with herbs and soya bread this time.  After lunch, I went into Viva's Tea Bar. This is a wonderful place at Viva, where you can help yourself to many different organic herbal teas, in either cups or there are teapots and insulated teapots if you want to take some to your room.  However, I think this is uncecessary as we all have herbal teas and kettles in our rooms.  I suppose if you wanted to make up a pot of tea and take it to the relaxation room or outside in the garden, the insulated teapots are OK.

As well as a large selection of herbal teas, the waitresses also make up at least 2 teas in glasses for us.  Today it was Green Tea with fresh lemon and lemongrass.  Green tea is invigorating and helps to regulate blood pressure.  The second one was Kasapappel Tea (obviously Austrian/German) with fresh herbs and pieces of orange, and this checks inflammation and protects mucous membranes.

There is absolutely no tea and coffee available at Viva, not even sparkling water. The Tea Bar does have a selection of bottled water, and it also has the most beautiful granite water fountain, where you can help yourself to glass after glass of water that has been energised according to Dr. Masaru Emoto, (who wrote The Hidden Messages in Water)aerated with oxygen and revitalised with semi-precious stones.  When the water comes out of the font, it has thousands, and thousands of tiny bubbles, almost like it's alive. You can see the energy in it.

Just had a swim and a 10 minute session in the Far Infrared Cabin. Whew it does get hot in there. Great for muscle and join aches and pains though. Trying to drink as much water as I can. I have to drink at least 3 litres daily.  Then off to the sauna.  On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the sauna/steam room areas are available to ladies only.  All other times it's mixed, and the Austrians don't have any modesty at all. Everything is on show, and we are just not used to that in the UK are we.  I must admit that I don't have a problem with going au naturel. What's the point in going for a sauna or a steam with a swimming costume on.  The whole point is to sweat the toxins out of the skin.  The costume just gets in the way. When I came to Viva in 2008 and 2009, this was not available, so it is something people have requested, much like the tv's we now have in our rooms.  Viva is about cleansing on the inside and on the outside, so when the Clinic was built, there were no tv's in the rooms.  However, guests complained so they have now provided tv's. 

When I got back to my room, there was a clean, white towelling robe and a new pair of towelling slippers with the Viva logo on.  These I'm wearing were new when I arrived on Tuesday.  They obviously change them every 3 days.

Dinner tonight was dry soya bread with yang tea. I had this tea this morning. It comes with a small pot of organic honey and small jug of organic freshly squeezed orange juice.  The tea and broths at Viva are served in cups, but you don't drink from the cup. They give you a small teaspoon, and you use this to drink the liquid.  Sloshing around our mouths before we swallow it.  They are very, very particular about correct chewing techniques here. It's all part of the cure.

Back in my room now. Was going to have a swim. It's 8pm. Think I will read instead and have an early night.  I have treatments in the morning, then there is a trip to the Christmas Market in Klagenfurt tomorrow afternoon.

24 NOVEMBER 2011

Up at 6.45 this morning, a quick shower, take my Epsom Salts and alkalising powders, then down for breakfast. Same as yesterday, dried buckwheat bread with some sheeps cheese and herbs.  Couldn't eat it all, not at that time in the morning. I managed to finish the cheese but left some of the bread. I know I'm supposed to chew it at least 50 times, but not this morning, just couldn't face it.

My first appointment was with Dr. Stossier. It was the Manual Abdominal Treatment (I will be having this every day whilst here) and an important part of the therapy at Viva. This is something I do with every single colon hydrotherapy treatment I give, so I was looking forward to being on the receiving end for a change, and getting the treatment from one of the Masters. Dr. Stossier has been voted one of the top 5 digestive doctors in the World.  The treatment is aimed at stimulating the blood circulation to the intestines, and draining toxicity through the lymphatic tissues in the intestines. It is a deep massage, and a little uncomfortable in places.  He found no real problems; a little spasticity, and a slight restriction in the ileo-cecal valve.

After that, it was still with Dr. Stossier, but my Applied Kinesiology (AK) session. This differs considerably from Kinesiology in the UK, as the AK involves putting the substances on the tongue, not in glass jars.  AK is a very accurate diagnostic tool.  I had previously told Dr. Stossier about my menopausal hot flushes and night sweats, so he proceeded to test me for all the herbs/vitamins/minerals used to treat menopause symptoms, including black cohosh, agnus castus. He also ruled out evening primrose and all the homeopathic menopausal remedies. He tested me for food allergies - none. He then tested my hormones, and picked up a deficiency of progesterone. He also picked up adrenal exhaustion. Not surprising the busy year I've had.  When he'd finished, he escorted me to medical reception, where I picked up a pot of natural progesterone cream that I have to massage into my inner arm or thigh, once a day. This will help with the hot flushes, night sweats, help prevent breast and endometrial cancer, strengthen my bones and help me use fat for energy, instead of it going on my hips!  Progesterone is also a natural anti-depressant. I also picked up a pot of Vitamin B3 (Niacin) and I have to take one capsule (500mg) daily with food. The Niacin is to help support my adrenals and hormones. It's also good for supporting the liver.

My consultation with Dr. Stossier ended there and I went to see Maria, one of the Viva nurses for a mineral analysis blood test. This was just a thumb-prick blood test.  I will have the results tomorrow, and Dr.Stossier will then decide if I need full spectrum blood work done.

I'd finished at medical for the day, so it was off to the Kneipp Department. If you don't know what Kneipp is, I suggest you Google it.  Viva Mayr have a very modern, state of the art Kneipp Department, and it is manned by two very capable therapists, Laura and Lindsay.

I will be having three treatments here today, a herbal bath, a Body Detox Electrolysis Foot Bath and the Roeder Nasal Reflex Therapy. This is one of my favourite treatments here at Viva. 

Kneipp treatments are all about using water as a therapeutic tool (hydrotherapy) and the Herbal Bath consists of lying in a large, deep bath that has lights impregnated on the inside that change colour. Laura, one of the Kneipp therapists asked if I would prefer Rose, Rosemary or Lavender bath salts, and I chose Rose. She then asked if I preferred a stimulating or gentle treatment, and I chose stimulating.  For the next 20 minutes I was pummelled with quite strong jets of water all over my body. It's an invigorating treatment, but at the same time very relaxing.

It was then just a hop, skip and a jump to the room next door for my Body Detox Electrolysis Foot Bath. You put your feet in what looks like a foot spa, but this is no ordinary foot spa. This one is based on an electrophysical transfer of charges and during the treatment you feel a pleasant tingling in your feet. A voltage is generated via two electrodes, creating a flow of electricity and enables negative ions in the water resonate with the soles of the feet. To further facilitate this, saline waters are added as a conductor. The water gradually becomes a muddy brown colour as the 1,000's and 1,000's of sweat glands in the soles of the feet release the toxins, from the body,  into the water. Not without reason are the feet known as the body's second pair of kidneys.

In general, excess acidity is reduced, and the treatment helps remove deposits in the blood vessels and promotes circulation. As a result, the organs function better, moods and sleep improve, the immune system becomes stronger, and signs of premature aging are reduced.  I am having this treatment almost daily.

My last treatment today is one of my favourites at Viva. It's wonderful for sinus problems and headaches. It is the Roeder Nasal Reflex Therapy. The Kneipp therapist uses a Q-tip, dipped in oil of rosemary, chamomile, sage, eucalpytus and mint, and inserts it into each nostril three times, stimulating three particular reflex points.  The Q-tip remains inserted at the first reflex point for approx 2 minutes, then the therapist re-positions it a second, then a third time. She then does the other nostril.  It sounds painful, but it isn't at all.  It helps with headaches, migraines, it stimulates circulation to the head and eyes, helps with snoring, clears your head and improves nasal breathing. 

It's 9.30 now and the Doctors usually like you in bed by this time, having taken your fourth drink of alkalising powder, and with your liver pack on, so I'll say night night for now. Catch you tomorrow.

23 NOVEMBER 2011 

Had a good night. Didn't forget to prepare my liver pack. This should be done every evening before bed . Place a damp cold cloth over the liver area, then a hot water bottle, then a warm dry cloth. Get in bed and go to sleep. The cold cools down the temperature of the tissues over the liver, and the warmth heats it up. This improves circulation to the liver and helps 'drain' away any toxicity.

Got up at 7am, swallowed my Epsom Salts and Viva Base Powder mix, and jumped in the shower. Got an 8am massage for an hour, then Consulation with Dr. Stossier.

Breakfast this morning was a boiled egg, with spelt bread, a delicious sheep cheese with herbs, and malted coffee. All organic of course.  Lunch was dry spelt bread, with a vegetable soup and fresh herbs. Not a lot, but very filling.

Off to try some nordic walking now.

Did almost 2 hours of nordic walking in the forest around the Viva-Mayr Clinic. I must admit I could never see the point of nordic walking, but now having done it, I can. Walking obviously exercises your muscles below the waist, but when you use the poles, the muscles above your waist are exercised too, especially the arms and shoulders.  The forest was so quiet and peaceful and the higher we walked up the mountain, the further into the mist we went.

Came back to the Clinic, jumped in the sauna and steam room for 30 minutes or so to warm up and relax, then off to dinner. What a feast. Dry buckwheat bread and a clear vegetable broth. I am on what is called the 'Mild Cleansing Diet', to give my digestive system a complete rest to allow the rest of my organs to recover and strengthen. I also have to drink minimum of 3 litres of water daily, take hot and cold showers in the morning and use a dry skin brush.

I have to drink saline (alkalising) waters daily and take epsom salts every morning.  These substances gently cleanse the digestive system and remove the food residues and faecal impaction. I can have enemas and colon hydrotherapy treatments if needed. The whole point of the therapy here at Viva is to remove the toxic 'sludge' that collects in our organs and bodily tissues, to restore vitality and energy.

I will be having the manual abdominal massage treatment tomorrow, and every day whilst I am here. This is an extremely important part of the therapy and is aimed at breaking down adhesions in the intestines, and stimulating the blood circulation. I am also scheduled to have a mineral infusion, a herbal bath, a foot bath, the Roeder nasal reflex therapy. This is wonderful for sinus problems. I've had it before when I came to Viva in 2008 and 2009, and it is one of my favourite treatments. Will report on it tomorrow.

Time is now 8pm. I am going to prepare my alkalising powders ready to drink and my liver pack, then off to bed.  I'm up at 7 in the morning for breakfast, and I've been warned by Dr. Stossier that I need to get lots of rest. I am not even allowed to go in the gym for the time being.

22 NOVEMBER 2011

Arrived at The Viva-Mayr Clinic at 5pm, following a fairly uneventful 2 hour flight from Stansted. Bit touch and go though due to the fog, but luckily no delays.

After a few preliminaries at Reception, I was shown to my beautiful room. It has a balcony, overlooking the lake and gardens, a huge double bed, and spotlessly clean bathroom.  I have a tv (don't think I will use it very much though) and a pair of huge double wardrobes/drawers made out of beech wood, and an oak wooden floor. There is not a speck of dust to be seen.

I have a hostess trolley in the lounge area that contains two glasses, and water jug.  The jug contains crystals, and there are also several bottles of still water on the trolley.  There is a sachet of Base Powder (alkalising powder) and a glass of Epsom Salts in water, ready for me to take in the morning. I will be drinking this solution several times each day during my stay here, but more about why we do that later.

All the water at Viva is oxygenated and 'energised', even the water used for bathing and showering.

There is no wi-fi at Viva as they don't want computers etc creating electromagnetic stress (electrosmog). However, I do have a LAN connection in my room, so am able to connect to the internet with my laptop.  Viva believe the surroundings of the Clinic should be free of electrosmog particularly whilst sleeping, as this helps the body fully regenerate.

Viva was just how I remembered it 2 years ago. It even smells the same. They've extended the dining room to make it more spacious for guests, but haven't added any extra bedrooms. It still has that intimate feel to it. 

Up at 7.30 in the morning for breakfast, then off to the Medical Centre for an hour's massage with Harald. Then it's my medical examination with Dr. Stossier, followed by a lesson in eating habits.  This is my third visit to Viva, and I know how important correct eating/chewing habits are, but I will still attend.  An old dog can still learn new tricks.

Tomorrow's programme includes Nordic Walking and a cookery lesson. Not much of a cook, but after having my busiest year ever in the Clinic, I am desperate to get outdoors, so Nordic Walking it is.

Off to investigate the bathroom and the lovely oils they have provided. Feel a long, hot, relaxing bath coming on.

Catch up tomorrow.

21 NOVEMBER 2011

It's 5.40 Monday evening, and I have just finished a very busy working day in the Clinic.

I have to do some packing now for my trip. Can't put it off any longer. I detest packing almost as much as I detest ironing.

Flight from Stansted to Klagenfurt leaves at 11.50 in the morning.  Just hope the fog clears.  I am looking forward to catching up with Dr. Harald Stossier, the Medical Director/Doctor at Viva-Mayr, who has been voted one of the top 5 digestive Doctors in the World. Also looking forward to catching up with the rest of the Doctors/Nurses and support staff at Viva. All very dedicated professionals.

19 NOVEMBER 2011

Just started thinking about packing a few things for my trip to The Viva-Mayr Clinic in Austria on Tuesday, 22nd November.  I will need very little, as most of my days will be spent in robe and slippers, going from one wonderful, relaxing treatment, to another.  My aims at Viva this year are to shed a few pounds (around 10lbs) and completely detoxify my vital organs, including liver, kidneys, bowel, heart, lungs and blood!  This will be my third visit. I went in 2008 and 2009. I wasn't able to go in 2010, as my Dad had a stroke in the October, and I was due to go to Viva in the November.

Many of the treatments are aimed at achieving total detoxification and de-acidification of the body, and the treatments include the taking of alkaline powders daily, vitamin/mineral infusions, colon hydrotherapy, massage, (specifically the important manual abdominal massage) treatments in the Kneipp Department, including herbal baths, mud baths, sauna, steam room, infinity pool and gym.  That is just a selection of the treatments/facilities available at Viva-Mayr. Of course, there is the World famous Viva Diet, and the food during my stay will be prescribed to me by one of the Physicians.  I know what is good for me, and particularly my blood type (O) - high protein, particularly animal protein (red meats) and low carbohydrates.

18 NOVEMBER 2011

Hello everyone.  It's been ages since I've added anything to the Blog.  I have been so busy with Clinic and Colonic Association Committee work, and am doing lots of tweeting too @myhealthybowel and @archcolonics 

Please follow me.

We have also updated the website and added a colonics YouTube video that demonstrates a modern naturopathic colon hydrotherapy treatment.  Please view and 'like' it.

I am going to The Viva-Mayr Clinic of Modern Medicine in Austria on the 22nd November for 12 days to do some studying and having lots of lovely treatments myself.  I will be blogging and tweeting about my experiences at this World-famous Clinic.

Elderberries have been used for hundreds of years, especially in England, for the treatment of colds, fevers, flu and other maladies. Elderberry has been found to inhibit the replication of both type A and type B flu viruses.  Researchers found that elderberry inhibited the enzyme that attaches the virus to human cells preventing the virus from invading cells.  They also showed that elderberry activates the immune system by increasing inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine production (Barak, 2002). Another study showed that 93% of flu patients given extract were completely symptom-free within two days; those taking a placebo recovered in about six days.

I made a batch of tincture by soaking some dried elderberries in a quart jar with vodka, it only takes 2 weeks, but I left them in my fridge for a year. When my family caught a nasty virus recently, I decided to make syrup with my extract, per Dr. Christopher's instructions. I gave my children half-tablespoon doses of the syrup several times a day, along with Dr. Christopher's Kid-e-Well tincture. Their illness lasted a few days, compared to our friends who were sick for a couple weeks. I kept giving it to them to help dry up the lingering cough and runny noses. I also used the elderberry syrup and Kid-e-Well for my 2 month-old baby, who manifested RSV-like symptoms. This treatment worked well, along with suctioning mucus out of his nose a few times a day.

According to the USDA Plant Guide, "Only the blue or purple berries of elderberry are edible... the active alkaloids in elderberry plants are hydrocyanic acid and sambucine.  Both alkaloids will cause nausea so care should be observed with this plant.  Elderberries are high in Vitamin C.  The red berries of other species are toxic and should not be gathered."

It is common knowledge that Antibiotics are not very effective against viruses. My neighbor just lost her sister to the H1N1 virus. This makes me so sad, since there are many effective natural medicines that are anti-viral; Elderberry is one of them. I've planted several Elderberry bushes in my garden so I'll have my own source of Elderberries and flowers for future use.

Regular Bowel Movements Support Breast Health

If you have sore and tender breasts make sure that you have a good intake of fibre.  It can help with breast pain because it helps to remove excess hormones from your body.  If you’re constipated or not passing a bowel motion regularly, then your body isn’t eliminating waste products, toxins and hormones efficiently.  Soluble fibre, which is found in vegetables and whole grains such as oats and brown rice, has the most benefit in terms of breast pain as it contains the kind of fibre that binds to hormones.  Make sure you’re having at least one helping of whole grains and two servings of vegetables a day. 

Diverticular Disease and IBS

After the age of 60, diverticular disease, which is an inflammation of the intestines, is increasingly common, although many people don’t realise that they have it.  Symptoms include constipation, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, fever and vomiting.  IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) has similar symptoms.  The exact cause isn’t known, but it is thought that stress and anxiety can be triggers.  Avoiding large meals, spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol, increasing fibre intake and drinking plenty of water can all help.  Relaxation is especially important.  Certain supplements may also help to keep your digestive system healthy and these include peppermint oil, which has an anti-spasmodic effect; artichoke extract, which can reduce symptoms of bloating; and probiotics which can replace healthy bacteria in the colon and ease digestive problems

SCIENTISTS SAY THE OVER 50's SHOULD TAKE PROBIOTICS

This was the headline in the press recently.  It stated that people over 50 have about 1,000-fold less 'friendly' bacteria in their gut, compared to younger adults. 

Low levels of 'good' bacteria can create an environment which allows the 'bad' bacteria to multiply, and this can leave you prone to infections, but not just in the bowel, in other areas of the body too.

The word probiotic means 'for life'.  There have been around 80 human studies that show supplementation with probiotics can have positive effects and stimulate our resistance to infection.

The human gut contains 100's of different strains of bacteria; some of them friendly ones like bifidus and lactobacillus, and some disease causing ones too.  Having lots of friendly bacteria in your digestive system helps to control and 'crowd-out' the more pathogenic strains and stop them from multiplying.

Probiotic supplementation is more important as we get older, as the levels of 'friendly' strains of bacteria reduce with age, and this increases the chances of the 'bad' bacteria getting out of control.  This is called dysbiosis and typical symptoms are abdominal bloating/pain, gas, constipation, and skin problems, particularly eczema.

I would recommend daily supplementation with Ecodophilus by BioNutri.  Take just one capsule daily, with food.  These can be obtained from The Natural Dispensary on 01453 757792.  They cost £10.15 for 30. That is just 34p each day, excluding postage of £1.50.  Quote 'my healthy bowel' to obtain your 10% discount from The Natural Dispensary.

The strains of lactobacillus and bifidus contained in the Ecodophilus capsules will ensure your digestive system is constantly being colonised with healthy bacteria, helping you to keep fit and active into older age.

PEPPERMINT FOR BLOATING

There are about 30 different species of mint, but the only one used to help with the symptoms of IBS is peppermint (mentha piperita).  It's a cross between water mint and spearmint.  It has oval shaped leaves with pointed tips.

It's refreshing flavour and medicinal qualities have been valued for thousands of years, and used by the Egyptians, the Greeks and Romans.

Peppermint can help ease flatulence, bloating and indigestion.  It can encourage sweating and clear catarrh.  It can be used as an inhalation for respiratory problems such as coughing and nasal congestion, which explains why menthol is found in many over-the-counter cold and cough remedies.

Mint contains high levels of the medicinally active essential oils menthol and menthone.  As well as giving peppermint its distinctive aroma and taste, these volatile oils have therapeutic properties.

If you suffer with bloating and digestive problems, pour 150ml of boiling water on a handful of fresh leaves and infuse for 10 - 15 minutes, then strain.  Drink a cupful before meals.

Mint should not be given to babies or toddlers in any form.  Avoid it in pregnancy, and never take essential oil internally, without first consulting a qualitified herbal or medical practitioner.

BAD BREATH (HALITOSIS)

Bad breath is usually caused by poor dental hygiene.  Plaque, infected gums, abscesses, and insufficient brushing and flossing are mostly to blame.  It is important to visit a Dentist at least twice a year to have a full dental check up.

Poor digestion, and a sluggish bowel and liver can also cause bad breath. Animal protein, particularly meat can take a long time to digest, and putrefies in the stomach and small bowel.  This can create a build-up of pathogenic bacteria and this can cause excessive gas to build up. Hot air rises = smelly breath.

One of the  most simple and effective things a person can do to improve digestion is to chew properly and to avoid having carbohydrates and proteins on the same plate.  So if  you are eating meat, chicken and fish, then have vegetables, but not carbohydrates like potatoes.  Likewise, when eating rice or pasta, have them with vegetables, not protein.  Long-term bad breath can indicate problems with the kidneys and liver, or diabetes, in which case consult a Doctor.

If the bowel is severely congested with impacted matter, the body re-absorbs toxins into the blood, and hence into the lungs, to be breathed out.

DIGESTIVE HEALTH AND BOWEL HEALTH CLINIC  

On Thursday, 3rd March, 2011 from 11am to 4pm, I will be holding a Digestive Health and Bowel Health Clinic at The Health Food Store, Plains Road, Mapperley, Nottingham. (0115 962 5487)  I will be holding free, private Consultations at the health shop for anyone suffering with: Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Constipation, Diarrhoea, Bloating, Indigestion, Acid Reflux, Wind, Eczema, Headaches.   There is no need to make an appointment, just turn up.  There will be free drinks and snacks available throughout the day, and I will be giving out 'Linda's Top 10 Tips for Digestive Health' and 'Linda's Top 10 Tips for Bowel Health', free of charge. Laurence and Julia, from The Health Food Store, will also be available to answer questions on any health related matter.

So if you, or any member of your family, or friend, suffer with any of the above complaints, or indeed just want to have a chat about improving your health, then please come along. This is an ideal opportunity to come and talk to me, completely free of charge.

WHAT'S MY ECZEMA GOT TO DO WITH MY BOWEL?

Well it might have quite a lot to do with it actually, particularly if, when a baby, you were born by cesarian and were bottle-fed instead of breast-fed.  Extensive research proves that babies who were cesarian born and formula fed, are more likely to suffer with eczema.  Furthermore, it has been found that these babies don’t thrive too well.  They pick up whatever virus or bug is doing the rounds, and they are more prone to infections, especially chest infections that require antibiotics.  These babies grow up into adults whose lives can be blighted by eczema, psoriasis and gut problems like Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

When a baby is born, it has a sterile gastro-intestinal tract (gut).  As it passes through the birth canal of the Mother, bacteria from the birth canal get into the baby’s nose and mouth.  This is then swallowed into the stomach and intestines, and the process of bacterial colonisation begins.  When the Mother begins to breast-feed her baby, the colostrum in the breast milk further protects the lining of the gut, by helping to build up the mucosal barrier. This protects babies from infection and is anti-inflammatory.

It takes many weeks for the gut wall of a baby to close up and ‘seal’ itself.  If a baby is born by cesarian and is formula fed, then it is not receiving those vital strains of bacteria to begin colonisation and sealing of the gut wall.  This may allow the more pathogenic strains of bacteria to ‘leak’ through the gut wall and create inflammation.  A typical symptom of this is eczema, although asthma is also very much implicated in cesarian/formula fed babies too.

In babies who are bottle fed, and/or who have had antibiotics, it is advisable to sprinkle a soluble probiotic powder that contains beneficial strains of bacteria, into the milk, to assist in colonisation of the gut. Lepicol Probiotics for Babies (www.lepicol.com) is a natural sourced product to help maintain a healthy digestive function in babies and young children. It is safe for children of all ages. It is useful following a course of antibiotics, digestive upsets and stress. The probiotic powder can be added to food, water, milk or juice.

Manufacturers of formula milk are also realising the importance of good gut bacteria in babies, and are beginning to add it to their formula milk products.

IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME AND GUT BACTERIA

I have just finished speaking, on the 'phone, to a young man, who has been suffering with Irritable Bowel Syndrome for just over two years now, and I was pointing out how important good gut bacteria is in managing the distressing symptoms of IBS.  Many people who suffer with IBS have dysbiosis.  This is where the gut has an overgrowth of the more pathogenic strains of bacteria/yeast, but it is deficient in the beneficial strains of bacteria/yeast.  Dysbiosis can cause irritation, inflammation, bloating, wind, and irregular bowel movements.  Such symptoms can be greatly helped by supplementing with a daily capsule of probiotics, that contains different beneficial strains of bacteria to re-colonize the small and large bowel.  Good bacteria assist in digestion, absorption of nutrients, break-down of fats, and 'seal' the bowel wall to prevent any issues with 'leaky gut'.  It is also possible to make your own delicious and cheap probiotic yogurt drink with kefir.  You can use cow, sheep, goat, rice or coconut milk. Full details can be found at www.red23.co.uk.  Click on Probiotic and Cultured Foods in their menu bar, and find Body Ecology Kefir Sachets.  Follow the instructions.