Getting the most from your retreat
The Guidebook 1
Welcome •
It is with great pleasure that we welcome you to the heart of the Somerset countryside at
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We wish to thank you for taking the time and effort to travel to this beautiful centre of healing, rejuvenation and relaxation.
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We invite you to participate in the program as much as you wish and feel comfortable with. Our primary concern is to support you in your journey for the ultimate detoxification of body and mind, and the regeneration of the spirit.
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Anamchara is a centre of peace and tranquillity. We feel that it is very important to rest and relax during the day, and urge you to listen to your body. We believe that light exercise is crucial in the weight loss and detoxification process, so please make the most of the daily Yoga and Pilates. However, if your energy levels are low and you find yourself longing for bed and a good book, feel free to enjoy this period. The time is yours to do as you please.
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All of the treatments and activities incorporated in our retreat are designed to aid in the detoxification of the body. We have put together the treatments that we feel are best suited to all aspects of a thorough cleanse.
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A little bit about us… •
Anamchara is a Celtic Gaelic name which means “soul mentor” or “spiritual mentor”. In medieval times younger monks would seek advice and wisdom from the older monks in order to achieve clarity and enlightenment. It was common for monks to overcome barriers of distance and time in order to be spiritual confidants and guides for one another, thus forming life long friendships. Celtic spirituality seeks to gain a deeper understanding of nature, the divine and the true self. Virtues such as courage, excellence, truth, generosity and a deep meaningful participation with life are all aspired to. It is a sense of reconditioning oneself to a pure form and reconnecting with the mind and body in a relaxed natural environment
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The letter ’A' in the Anamchara logo is symbolic and represents the Celtic three spirals. This deeply mystical symbol relates to the natural balance of the cosmos and of all living things. The beauty and simplicity are inherent in the spirals.
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The spiral symbol dates back to the Iron Age and early sightings can be found at Newgrange – a megalithic tomb in Ireland that was built around 3200BC. Writer Michael S. Schneider has said that the spiral is also a worldwide symbol of self-transformation.
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We believe spirals evoke a deep sense of relaxation, tranquillity and the ability to sooth an over-active mind. Calmness and serenity is what we deem to be an important feeling to experience during your fast at Anamchara.
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Accompanying your personal goals of weight loss and detoxification, we want you to feel utter tranquil detachment from your busy life back at home. 3
Moorleaze Farm •
Moorleaze Farm is a luxury 5 star cottage complex, which are furnished to the highest standards. All rooms are private rooms, though couples or friends may choose to share one of the luxury en-suites. En-suites vary in size and all have their own private bathroom, whilst for the non en-suites, bathrooms are shared, though we never have more than 2 people sharing a bathroom, except in 1 cottage.
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The Anamchara retreat is located at Moorleaze Farm, a luxurious setting nestled into the picturesque Somerset countryside. Some of the most magnificent English estates are close by, including Longleat House and Stourhead. We are in the village of Witham Friary, near Frome. The famous prehistoric monument, Stonehenge is about 20 miles South East, which is said to be positioned at a central hub of alignment ley lines, which makes the site a force of extraordinary energy.
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Moorleaze Farm •
Spacious five star cottages make up the retreat and are all well equipped and furnished to a high standard with open plan ground floors, maximising the light and views of the surrounding area. Nestled into 76 acres of woodland, lakes and fields, the retreat also holds a wonderful 18m indoor pool, with all year round controlled temperatures to ensure maximum comfort for your stay. The pool is accessible between the hours of 8am and 9pm; please remove your shoes upon entering.
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There is a large function room which hosts the Yoga and Pilates classes, nutritional talks and raw food training. A well-kept tennis court is also available should you wish to use it. The beautiful woodland and mown lawns are perfect for walks or just soaking up the countryside. Noted as a stunning holiday spot by The Sunday Times, Moorleaze Farm is a tranquil and idealised location to recharge your batteries in. 5
Facilities/Activities •
Our communal cottage Stourhead is the location for all nutrition talks and treatments. Please wait downstairs for your treatments and your therapist will come and collect you.
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Our staff are located in the cottage called Glastonbury which is situated at the rear of the other cottages, should you need us.
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Our group walks take place everyday at 2pm; we meet in the central area, by the benches, and walk for around 45 minutes through the local rolling countryside. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to take in some fresh air and have some thinking space.
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Pilates and Yoga sessions take place in the studio, which is situated to the left of the tennis court. We ask you to remove any outside footwear upon entering.
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Please don’t hesitate to ask us if you have any questions regarding the facilities or local activities.
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Your Schedule Time
Activity
8.00 am
Yoga/Meditation
9.00 am
Juice & Supplements
10 am – 12 pm
Colonics & Treatments
12:00 PM
Juice & Supplements
12.30 pm
Nutrition Talk
2:00 PM
Group Walk
3:00 PM
Juice & Supplements
3.30 pm
Aquacise
4.45 pm
Pilates
5.30 pm
Juice & Supplements
6 pm – 8 pm
Colonics & Treatments
8:00 PM
Juice & Supplements
8.30 pm
Relax in cottage
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What’s in my Juice? •
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Apples – A great digestive aid. Act as a laxative, relieve constipation and
reactivate the beneficial gut bacteria. Remove toxins and lower cholesterol. Contain Vitamins A,B,C, Calcium, Magnesium & Phosphorous.
Beetroot – Detoxifies the liver and gall bladder. Anti-oxidant . Excellent
intestinal cleanser and stimulates bowel movements. Contain Vitamins A,B,C, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium, Manganese, Beta Carotene, Folic Acid and high in Iron.
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Carrots – Excellent detoxifier. Cleansing for the liver and digestive system.
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Celery – Great cleanser. Anti-Cancer. Rebuilds red blood cells. Lowers blood
Anti-Cancer. Anti-Bacterial. Aid in kidney function, eye and skin problems. Contain Vitamins A,B,C,D,E,F, Beta Carotene, Folic Acid, Calcium, Magnesium, Potassium and Phosphorus.
pressure. Aids digestion. Can help migraines. Prevents calcium deposits. Good for nerves. High in organic sodium. Contains Coumarins (anti-cancer), Potassium, Calcium, Folic Acid and Vitamin C & B3.
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Cucumber –Diuretic. Cleansing. Aids Digestion. Good for hair, skin and nails.
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Ginger - Excellent for convalescence. Anti-spasmodic, prevents nausea,
Dissolves uric acid that causes kidney and bladder infections.
improves circulation. Contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorus and potassium.
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What are the Supplements for? •
Psyllium Husks – A natural plant fibre that when mixed with water expands in the stomach, providing a feeling of satiety during the fast. The husks also act as an intestinal broom sweeping through the colon and aid the colonic irrigation therapy by helping to expel the old debris stuck to the colon walls. The husks are excellent for encouraging peristaltic action in the intestine which means that the colon has a fibrous bulk to work against that encourages movement of waste out through the intestine down to the rectum. Psyllium aids in cleaning out the colon walls by attaching to the mucous lining of the colon and acting as a vacuum to clear away any old debris, or waste material. It is vital to drink lots of water when consuming psyillium.
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Bentonite – One of the most effective and powerful healing clays. Bentonite has been used by indigenous cultures for centuries to treat both internally and externally due to its powerful healing benefits. When mixed with water Bentonite swells up and becomes very porous changing its electrical and molecular components to produce an electrical charge. This is a powerful supplement which acts like a magnet, drawing out heavy metals and other impurities. Bentonite draws toxins from the deep crevices of the colon walls. It works hand in hand with Psyllium, flushing out toxins from the colon. Bentonite should never be consumed without Psyllium. Use a wooden spoon to serve your Bentonite rather than a metal spoon.
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Digestive Enzymes – These help you to digest food. With the absence of food during fasting they are used to eat away at the mucoid plaque that builds up on your colon walls, thus clearing through the layers of impacted matter that have built up on the colon walls over several years.
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Intestinal Formula – This supplement is for those who have sluggish bowels or who are severely constipated. If you are finding it hard to get things moving during the colonics and aren’t eliminating much then you may require some assistance. Please speak to Karen for advice on this.
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Detox Symptoms •
During your detox you are likely to have both a physical and emotional journey. We will support you though your detoxification, and it is normal to experience a range of symptoms; such as the following:
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Insomnia Sweats Headaches Nausea Vomiting Low Blood Sugar, Low Energy and Exhaustion Palpitations Irritability and a Feeling of Moodiness Tears and a Heightened Emotional State Dilated Pupils White coating on your Tongue
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All these symptoms should be welcomed as they are ways for your body to release toxins. Do try to remember that you are fully cleansing your body, both inside and out, which is a wonderful thing, and that despite the fact it may be hard for the first few days… these symptoms are normal.
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If you do feel that you are experiencing any of the above symptoms very seriously, please do speak to a member of staff for further advice and support.
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Yoga and Pilates •
Yoga, Pilates and detoxification go hand in hand. The word ‘yoga’ means ‘union’ – hence, yoga helps to bring union or balance to the whole being; bringing harmony to mind, body and spirit. Pilates is also a mind and body conditioning technique that aims to bring the physical body and mind back to a state of equilibrium and calm.
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At Anamchara Detox our Yoga and Pilates sessions are designed specifically to support the detox process. The excercises we teach help to bring your body into alignment, improve circulation and encourage the elimination of toxins.
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We use gentle stretching postures, relaxing the muscles and joints. Specific postures are used which massage the internal organs, ensuring optimum blood supply to all parts of the body. You will also learn breathing techniques that help to bring more oxygen to the lungs which in turn assists in the removal of cellular waste and toxic matter.
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NLP – Neuro Linguistic Programming •
Detoxification is a process that occurs physically in the body and also mentally in the mind. Emotional well being can be hindered due to feelings such as fear, anger, anxiety, sadness and stress, creating toxic thoughts and negativity. These emotional imbalances can be held and stored deep within the body. Over time these feelings and emotions can manifest into something physical such as disease and illness. Healing and NLP can help address any issues or emotional barriers that are causing a negative thought process or emotional sadness. Detoxing the mind on a emotional level is equally as important as detoxing the body on a physical level.
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NLP stands for Neuro-Linguistic Programming, a name that encompasses the three most influential components involved in producing human experience: neurology, language and programming. The neurological system regulates how our bodies function, language determines how we interface and communicate with other people and our programming determines the kinds of models of the world we create. Neuro-Linguistic Programming describes the fundamental dynamics between mind (neuro) and language (linguistic) and how their interplay effects our body and behavior (programming).
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We have an NLP Master Practitioner on site at your retreat, and we are able to offer you an hour long complimentary session. If you feel you would benefit from more than one session, please do contact Karen for pricing and scheduling.
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Colonic Irrigation •
Colonic irrigation is an internal cleansing bath that you give your colon, allowing for water to course through the entire organ in a gentle flow, flushing out all of the fecal matter and toxins from your colon. At Anamchara we believe it is a private process that you can learn how to do for yourself. It is a self-administered practice that you are in complete control of. We will assist you with colonic “set-up” and procedure training before you embark on your colonics program.
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We believe that intestinal cleansing is an important part of your detox experience here at Anamchara detox retreat. However it is not crucial or obligatory to complete this part of the program. There are those who may wish to refrain from the colonics and detoxify solely on the juice fasting programme which is still intensive and very effective in itself for cleansing and detoxifying the body. Each individual is on their own healing and detox journey and we encourage you to listen to your body and freely decide which parts of the program here at Anamchara detox retreats that you wish to participate in. 13
What happens to our bowels and why? •
After years of eating processed foods along with a high consumption of animal produce and a lack of sufficient dietary fibre in our diets, our colons have become congested and do not work properly. This leads to toxic residue forming in the colon tract and bowel walls. Chronically toxic bowels destroy beneficial bacteria and are extremely seductive breeding grounds for disease. This may lead onto conditions such as diverticulitis, colitis, cancer of the colon and other significant ailments.
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It has been reported that the United Kingdom is the most constipated nation in Europe and has the highest per capita incidents of bowel cancer in the world with 20,000 new cases each year. Your intestinal tract is a complex organ that has to consume and digest every piece of food that enters your mouth. Often it is filled with denatured or processed foods that clog up and irritate the colon, making it extremely hard to process food and digest it efficiently. Our colons are responsible for absorbing water, vitamins and minerals from our food. A clogged and toxic bowel is unable to adequately absorb these essential nutrients. This can lead to a nutritional deficiency.
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When food has not been digested properly it begins to build up in your colon and irritate the delicate walls of the intestine. The natural reaction is for the bowel to create a glue-like mucus to protect it, which also builds up in your colon creating more of an irritation and dysfunction in the bowel. This slows up the digestive process, allowing for toxic substances that would otherwise be eliminated in a fully functioning bowel to pass through into the blood and lymphatic system. This then spreads into other tissues and can overburden other organs in your body such as the liver which now has the arduous task of dealing with this toxicity. The body’s white blood cells also have to work over time to fight these toxins, leaving very few to fend off pathogenic microorganisms that lead to disease. And when the body’s immune system is weak, cell and lymphatic disease, such as, cancer may develop over many years.
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An immense amount of feculent material can foster itself in your bowels and can do so over a very long period of time. You may get constipated, experience flatulence, abdominal swelling, and IBS. These are just some of the physical symptoms associated with bowel dysfunction. Other symptoms less obvious in relation to our colon are headaches, skin problems, difficulty in losing weight, low energy levels, liver disorders and emotionally held issues. If you are experiencing any of these your bowel most certainly would benefit from a detoxifying colonic cleanse.
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When it comes to detoxing and giving your body a well-earned break from all the harsh chemicals and difficult to break down toxins that we put into our systems, cleansing the bowel is the first and most important step. The colon is the first part of a foetus that is formed. Next is the formation of our organs which stem from different parts of the colon. In short, the colon has different reflex and nerve meridian points that correspond to hundreds of other parts throughout the body. Many holistic practitioners believe that a healthy colon is the key to longevity. The immune system can only heal itself in a clean body. Cleansing the colon removes the mucoid plaque from your colon walls which is layers of faecal matter that has built up on the intestine wall over many years. Mucoid plaque can decrease the width of the intestinal passage inhibiting waste materials from passing through and being eliminated.
Disorders born from a dysfunctional bowel • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Constipation Irritable Bowel Syndrome Digestive Problems Liver Disorders Flatulence or Bloating Headaches Skin Problems General Fatigue Inability To Lose Weight Appendicitis Gallbladder infection Liver infection Heart problems Blood vessels dysfunction Arthritis Rheumatism Haemorrhoids Diabetes
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Contra-indications •
Colonic Irrigation may not be suitable for those who have existing medical conditions and there are contra-indications to this treatment programme. If you have any of the following conditions below you will be unable to participate on the colonics programme. Please also read the page on contraindications to “Juice Fasting” to see if the Anamchara Detox is a suitable and safe programme for you.
Contra-indicated Conditions for Colonics: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Anaemia Haemorrhoids Crohn’s Disease Diverticulitis Ulcerative Colitis Dysentery Severe/Uncontrolled Hypertension Abdominal Hernia Any form of cancer Recent colon or rectal surgery Pregnancy Liver Cirrhosis Congestive Heart Failure Heart Disease Eating Disorders, Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia
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At Anamchara Detox Retreat we do not aim to diagnose, treat or cure any illness or existing medical condition.
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Treatments •
In addition to your detox programme, we are able to offer you a wide range of treatments, which you can choose to purchase on your first day. We will schedule your treatments throughout the week, and all have been created with your total body detoxification and relaxation in mind.
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Treatments take place in the communal cottage, upstairs. Please arrive 5 minutes before your treatment to prepare.
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Our cancellation policy states that all treatments booked will need to be paid for at the end of the retreat, and we are able to accept cash, credit cards or cheques with a valid bank card. Credit card payments will incur a surcharge.
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Treatments Swedish Massage / Deep Tissue Back 25mins / £30 – Full Body 55mins / £55
Swedish massage uses light gliding strokes called effleurage to melt away tensions and stress. Deep Tissue massage incorporates much deeper pressure into the muscle layers and can be more beneficial in releasing energy blockages and stubborn knots embedded deep in the muscle fibres. Lymphatic Drainage techniques can be applied to stimulate the body’s lymphatic system which helps to removes waste products and toxins from the body.
Aromatherapy Massage Back 25mins / £30 - Full Body 55mins / £55
Essential oils are powerful, energetic, dynamic liquids used to enhance mind, mood and emotion. The therapist incorporates an oil blend specific to your needs. The oils are absorbed through the skin during massage, and aid in promoting relaxation, calmness of mind, detoxification and rejuvenation. 18
Treatments Hot Stone Massage 55mins / ÂŁ55
Hot Stone Massage is a highly detoxifying massage using Swedish or Shiatsu techniques. Heat from the stones relaxes the muscles and stimulates the circulation, allowing toxins to travel to the surface of the skin. Oil is applied to the body to ensure that the stones glide easily over the skin inducing a deep state of relaxation and serenity.
Abdominal / Colon Massage 25mins / ÂŁ30
A range of massage and holding techniques are used which focus on the metabolic and energetic functions of the abdomen to release trapped gases, blockages and waste products. This is an excellent complement to your colonic program.
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Treatments Thai Yoga Massage 60mins / £60
Defined as the lazy man’s yoga! This form of bodywork is usually performed on the floor with loose comfortable clothing to enable free movement. A range of Thai style stretches; yoga positions and deep massage techniques are used. The focus is on the stimulation of major “sen” lines (meridians) throughout the body, which are likened to vessels, by manipulating certain points to enable “lom” (energy) to move more freely through the body.
Reflexology 55mins / £55
This effective type of massage works on the feet to aid healing to the entire body. Specific reflex areas on the feet and hands relate to other areas and organs of the body. Practitioners focus on these areas by applying appropriate amounts of pressure using their thumbs. During treatment energetic pathways are stimulated throughout the whole body to induce a sense of well being and relaxation. 20
Treatments Reiki 55mins / ÂŁ55
This healing technique works on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual levels. It is based on the belief that unseen life force energy flows through us which sustains life and keeps us alive. Treatment is performed on a treatment table whilst fully clothed but without footwear. Healing energy is transmitted through the hands of the practitioner to restore balance and harmony within the body.
Aromatherapy Facials 55mins / ÂŁ55 A bespoke facial, designed to suit your individual skin needs. A combination of the finest pure essential oils and plant extracts are applied with specifically designed massage techniques, to restore and recondition the skin, leaving the complexion smooth and luminous.
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Treatments Body Wraps 55 mins / £55 Enjoy a sumptuous, skin cleansing body wrap, designed to detox and moisturise dull skin cells. You will be slathered in a detoxifying mud mask and wrapped for 20 minutes, allowing for the toxin combating agents to sink into your skin. They work through metabolic stimulation and we then use Shea butter to hydrate. While you’re in your body cocoon we indulge you in a therapeutic head massage to give you more of a soothing experience.
Acupuncture 45 mins / £60
Acupuncture is a health care system that dates back 2000 years and is used in Chinese medicine. It has been used to restore and maintain good health when there are signs that the body’s chi or vital energy cannot move freely through the meridians of the body. This can be due to emotional and physical stress, poor nutrition and disease. Acupuncture focuses on returning equilibrium back to the body and can greatly assist the main organs of elimination to work optimally during fasting & cleansing. 22
Treatments Shiatsu Massage 60 mins / ÂŁ60 Shiatsu is perfect for relaxation and detox. It combines massage, acupressure and stretching techniques to ease away pain and stiffness, gently relaxing your body and mind. It achieves this by; relieving tense and knotted muscles, helping to improve your flexibility; stimulating the release of endorphins which reduce pain and stress whilst promoting a sense of well-being; increasing circulation which improves the flow of oxygen and nutrients to soft tissues and assists the lymphatic system to remove toxins from your body.
Treatment Bundle
Take full advantage of all the treatments on offer at Anamchara Detox with this reduced-rate treatments package. Bundles are limited due to demand and need to be ordered in advance of your retreat.
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Nutrition Talks •
Every day we will be hosting a nutrition talk in the communal cottage at 12.30pm, which lasts for approximately an hour.
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Please feel free to take notes on these sessions.
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We cover topics with detailed information such as: – Digestion and Food Intolerance – Colonic Irrigation and Bowel Health – Toxins – Stress – Raw Food and Optimal Nutrition
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