Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent disorder that affects 7–21% of the population worldwide, and 12% of Canadians and the high symptom burden of  IBS is associated with lost productivity and work absenteeism.

Fibromyalgia and IBS have substantial symptom overlap and are frequently co-diagnosed. Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain, headaches, sleep disturbances, difficulty concentrating, depression, and fatigue.

IBS patients report symptoms of bloating, abdominal pain, and altered bowel habits such as constipation or diarrhea. Other symptoms include headache, insomnia, fatigue. FM presents with unexplained musculoskeletal and widespread pain along with fatigue, sleep disturbances, and altered bowel habits.

Clinical studies are demonstrating that Mind-body interventions (MBI) are effective in symptom improvement.  MBI such as yoga, meditation, self hypnosis, Havening, EFT, along with stress relief techniques as Box Breathing. Participants may notice improved cognitive function, attention and concentration, suggesting these Mind-body interventions may modify central pain pathways, and/or autonomic dysfunction in both IBS and FM.