Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) affects about 10-15% of Americans and is the most common disorder diagnosed by gastroenterologists.  Symptoms include pain, cramping, bloating, and diarrhea.  One theory of IBS is that the sympathetic ("fight or flight") nervous system is out of balance with the parasympatheitic ("relax and recharge") nervous system.  Researchers recently found that the daily practice of yoga is effective at relieving the symptoms of IBS.  Study participants reported a decrease in symptoms after only 1 month of yoga practice.

This is part of a growing body of evidence involving stress-reduction techniques for gastrointestinal disorders.  The gastrointestinal system is controlled to a large extent by the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.  Other research shows that it is possible for these systems to get "stuck in a rut."  Specifically, a mother experiencing a great deal of stress during her pregnancy can actually predispose her unborn child toward sympathetic dominace for life! 

We all make daily choices that either bring us toward peace and harmony or drive us toward a stress reponse.  This study is one of many documenting the healing benefits of regular yoga practice.

Link to the study.

Link to a study fetal responses to stress.