Victoria’s Read

April is awareness month for two interrelated conditions, stress and irritable bowel syndrome or IBS.

Research has proven that both conditions are affected or helped by relieving one or the other.  For many people high or prolonged stress levels often causes symptom of IBS and conversely an IBS flare-up will increase stress levels.

Characteristic symptoms of IBS include any of the following:
·intermittent alternation of constipation and diarrhea which is frequently related to mood changes
·cramping pain in the lower abdomen which may be focused in the left or right  side
·location of pain may vary from site to site and attacks tend to be episodic and may be severe (spastic).
·hypersecretion of colonic mucus (mucus in the stools).
·more frequent bowel movements accompanied by pain.
·sometimes relief of pain with bowel movements.
·pain worse for eating.
·flatulence and distention and nausea
·stools are often small and round and may have the appearance of rabbit droppings or be thin or ribbon like or cigar-shaped.
·varying degrees of anxiety, depression, hostile feelings, fatigue and sleep disturbances which may also worsen the condition.

If you suspect you suffer from IBS, then a diagnosis by an MD is essential. The diagnosis is difficult as it is done by testing for and eliminating other serious conditions as possibilities. This is why these symptoms should not be ignored.

The good news is there are many natural an safe ways to help with IBS. One of the primary focuses is to reduce stress. It is a primary aggravator of IBS and is suspected as a major contributing cause. Two main lifestyle changes proven to help are:
·Diet regimen: high fiber diet, rich in cooked vegetables; avoidance of aggravating foods and any food sensitivities.
·Stress reduction techniques such as meditation, counseling, or yoga.

There are specific yoga poses and also full sequences of postures for relieving and preventing IBS symptoms as well as other digestive problems. Poses can be practiced individually as needed or you can follow the full sequences on a daily basis to maintain digestive stability. Besides the physical aspect of doing specific yoga poses to help IBS, the relaxation and anxiety relief one gets from yoga will not only add to the benefit, but accelerate recovery and resistance to future flare-ups.

Stay well, stay strong… you deserve it.