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About 1 in 5 People in the UK Suffer from IBS
YogaLondon on 02 August, 2010 |

As many as 1 in 5 people in the UK suffer from a functional disorder called IBS, or Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Its symptoms can include - but are not limited to -stomach cramps, bloating, diarrhea and constipation. IBS is more of an extreme annoyance rather than a serious medical concern; when the stomach of a sufferer is medically examined, there seem to be no internal damage. But perhaps the most irritating component of IBS is that there is no known cure. Fortunately, there are ways to effectively manage symptoms of IBS and help to prevent the discomfort that it is sure to bring.

While there are various ways to minimize the painful or bothersome symptoms of IBS, making simple lifestyle changes proves to be helpful to many. Lessening stress levels, tweaking your diet and increasing physical activity are just a few suggestions to battle a bad case of IBS.

Stress, a major player:
On-going stress is a major agitator to the bowels. If you're nervy about a work situation, your home life, etc., including regular practice of yoga can minimize traces of tension in your body. Many yoga instructors also urge their students to incorporate long, deep breaths with each movement. How does this improve the bowels? Deep breathing stimulates the digestive system and helps to normalize the function of it. Yogic poses and sequences can also eliminate stagnation in the GI tract, a problematic area for IBS sufferers. Between breathing and the correct movements, symptoms should lessen significantly.

What poses in particular?:
For constipation, try the Corpse Pose. This involves lying still on your back, inhaling deeply with palms turned out. For diarrhea, a simple Spinal Twist can halt urges to use the bathroom. The name describes the movement - just twist your spine to one side, breathing whilst holding this position. Alternate to the other side.
Bloating is settled by the Shoulder Stand (Inversion). While lying on your back, lift your up legs as high as you can and support your back with your hands. If you can, hold this position for about a minute.

At this time, Irritable Bowel Syndrome may not have a cure; but committing to a yoga routine and incorporating the poses mentioned above will provide relief.