IBS, which stands for Irritable Bowel Syndrome, is a chronic disorder in which the bowel doesn't work, as it should.



The bowel is part of the digestive system that makes and stores stools. The large bowel, or colon, links the smaller bowel to the rectum and anus, (back passage), and seems to be the starting position of most of the symptoms of IBS.

In the large bowel, semi-liquid residue from the absorption of food is temporarily stored while it absorbs water and salt. This leaves a more formed motion to be passed through the anus.

Natural muscular contractions push the contents through the bowel. If the bowel is overactive, the contents move more quickly and the person gets diarrhoea, whereas slow action causes constipation

IBS can be divided into four types depending on which is the main symptom - diarrhoea, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea alternating with constipation.

Symptoms

The syndrome features recurring abdominal pain and occasional diarrhoea, frequently alternating with constipation, rapid transit of food with frequent bowel motions, a sense of fullness, abdominal tenderness and swelling, an awareness of the bowel action, gas, regular headaches and anxiety.

With IBS the nerves and muscles in the bowel are extra sensitive. The muscles may contract too much when you eat. These contractions can cause cramping and diarrhoea during or shortly after a meal. Or the nerves can be overly sensitive to the stretching of the bowel, (because of gas, for example). Cramping or pain can result.

The contents of the bowel are moved along by a succession of rhythmical contraction and relaxation of segments of the intestine. This process is called peristalsis. In irritable bowel syndrome peristalsis is stronger and more common than normal.

Causes

The exact cause of irritable bowel syndrome is still unknown. The disorder seems often to begin during a time of emotional stress, and symptoms get worse in stressful situations.

The condition sometimes develops after a gastrointestinal infection. An increased sensitivity or intolerance to certain foods may also be a contributory factor.

So where does Relaxation and Visualisation come in?

The Power of Visualisation is a tried and tested technique and is often compared to positive thinking, self hypnosis, prayer, meditation, faith healing, mind control, etc. It is a completely safe and highly enjoyable process.

Relaxation and Visualisation used together offer sufferers a drug and diet free solution to the symptoms of IBS.

Using simple and easy relaxation techniques the body is calmed down and a good state of relaxation is achieved. This prepares the sufferer for the visualisation part of the cure.

Using certain simple visualising techniques the sufferer can significantly reduce pain and bowel dysfunction and even cure IBS completely.

As this is a home treatment it can be used in the comfort of your own home.