As someone who has personally experienced the daily ups and downs of irritable bowel syndrome, I can tell you that navigating its array of symptoms has been no small feat. I’ve tried every method of relief out there and each one has fallen short on effectiveness and longevity. There are various techniques that are used for the relief of symptoms related to irritable bowel syndrome: some natural, some not so natural. For those individuals who are less inclined to seek pharmaceutical treatment and prefer a holistic approach, there are amazing benefits that can be obtained from a regular yoga practice. Aside from diet modification, yoga has been proven to be one of the most therapeutic modalities in the management of IBS, as well as depression and anxiety which often go hand in hand with this condition. Studies show that “the symptoms of IBS are thought to occur due to disturbed brain-gut interactions at many levels: the central nervous system, autonomic nervous system, enteric nervous system, and gut musculature. Yoga could be acting at any of these levels.” There are some that believe the mere act of relaxing and the use of breathing techniques are sufficient enough to relieve IBS and mental health symptoms. What most people don’t realize is that yoga is known to massage the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal system and modulate the various systems mentioned above. Yoga is also associated with decreased levels of the stress hormone cortisol and increased levels of GABA, a neurotransmitter associated with inhibiting anxiety and stress. There are several other chemical alterations that occur in the body that include increased serotonin and melatonin levels which both aid in healthy sleep habits, increased energy levels, and an overall stronger sense of well being. This naturally creates a feeling of support and balance within the body, and that alone can ward off IBS flare ups and complications.

It can be argued that any form of exercise could provide these same affects, but studies show that yoga has been known to not only stimulate the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal system and aid in digestive motility, but it has also been proven to significantly improve the microbiome as well. By shifting the environment of the gut from troublesome, inflammatory bacteria to strong, health promoting bacteria, we’re not only improving the health of the GI system, but we’re also improving the functionality of our brain. This is significant to the treatment of IBS because there is a clear brain-gut connection that shows one will directly impact the other. Anyone who has regular tummy trouble will tell you that if they are feeling mentally strained or stressed, they will feel it in their belly long before they feel it anywhere else. Yoga is the perfect approach for the mental and physical effects of this disorder. Not only can a person practice specific poses that are intended to aid in digestion, but the meditation component is a powerhouse technique for stress management and mental clarity. This is exciting and encouraging information for the many people out there who are looking for a true remedy that can be immediately implemented and enjoyed as a daily therapy in place of pharmaceutical treatment and the array of side effects that are certain to follow. I encourage anyone who is struggling with a digestive disorder such as IBS to give yoga a shot and see how you feel. Yoga is such an incredible practice to incorporate into your daily life, not only for the benefits I listed above, but also for the many others that include a stronger immune system, increased endurance, stronger bones and joints, and a more positive, joyous outlook on life. I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out that it’s important to remember that this form of self-care can take a few weeks or possibly months to take full effect. Try not to get discouraged and remember that anything worth doing is worth doing right, with passion and dedication. Try checking out your local studio and talk with an experienced instructor about your specific needs and what you’re looking to get out of your practice. They can teach you or advise you on the best poses for treating the gut as a whole. I also encourage folks to talk to a nutrition coach who can provide guidance and get you on the right track with dietary protocols that will speed up the healing process and allow for a full transformation to take place. Here’s to purposeful poses and mindful eating. Namaste.