Improve IBS Symptoms with Shiatsu

    If you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) you are not alone.

One in five people suffer from IBS. Managing IBS symptoms on a daily basis can be difficult. Knowing where the nearest washroom facility is located is a constant worry on the IBS sufferer's mind. Stress contributes to depletion of our mental and physical state, along with  activating our fight-or-flight response.  As a result our adrenal glands become exhausted from ongoing stress. Unfortunately, increased stress creates an imbalance in the bodies digestive system which increases the symptoms of IBS.

From an energetic prespective, stress can cause stagnant energy, or poor energy flow, especially in the large intestine, small intestine, liver and stomach meridians. Therapies such as shiatsu and acupuncture that focus on treating the meridians can help stimulate natural energy flow.

In meridian theory, the Small Intestine is a fire element relating emotionally to inappropriate laughter as a result of stress, along with affecting regular sleep patterns.

The bodies natural defense is to purge the excess stress through the bowels resulting in irritable bowel syndrome.  A key acupuncture point for irritable bowel syndrome is CV 6.

Stimulation this point helps to strenghten the large intestine, relaxes the abdomen and encourages peristalsis, reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

Balancing the Governing Vessel (Yang Vessel) and Conceptual Vessel (Yin Vessel) is important as they help to keep the other meridians functioning at optimum levels.

When the meridians are balanced, stress is reduced and the digestive system may return to normal function. With regular shiatsu sessions the symptoms of IBS can be reduced.