The causes of IBS are unknown, but its symptoms may be triggered in a variety of ways including diet, emotions, and stress. The illness can present as pain, constipation, or diarrhea, often changing from one to another over time or in combination. Sometimes the symptoms become chronic and other times they disappear. The good news is that if you are willing to put a variety of approaches into action you can make significant improvements in your symptoms. You can learn to become more masterful in using your mind to influence your body, and to make dietary and life style alterations. These approaches have helped numerous other people like you, because IBS is a common illness. Part of the problem is that digestive problems are so embarrassing to discuss that most people suffer in silence and try to ignore the problem rather than work with it. Working in a small group can therefore be very instructive and reassuring.

• Education on the function of the bowel and how it changes with IBS,
• Dietary management suggestions,
• Developing awareness of how your thoughts, behaviors, attitudes, and physical body interrelate and impact your gut.
• Ideas for useful exercise
• Consideration of alternative approaches

Holly Burnes, RN, MS, CS is the leader of this program. She has led mind/body courses on IBS and worked with gastroenterologists and nutritionists at Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates over the last seven years to refine it and ensure its accuracy. Her knowledge of the body was first learned as a nurse, then as a psychotherapist, and, for the last twelve years, as a specialist in Mind/Body Medicine. Her approach is to be very action oriented, after all, how can you do the same thing and expect a different outcome?

You will learn facts about the body and updates on current research, discuss approaches that work for others, learn to meditate in order to give your body relaxation, become aware of automatic reactions, be more engaged in the present moment, and pursue better ways to manage stresses. There will be between 3-5 people per course.

The program will be offered in two four week sections for scheduling convenience and affordability. Groups will be formed and scheduled according to member requests. It is also possible to work with Ms. Burnes one to one if that is preferred or is more convenient.

Price: $175 for each 4 week section.

How can I sign up? Call Holly Burnes at (617) 909 4100.

Where is it held? Programs are offered at 1330 Beacon St, Brookline. On street parking is available, and the office is accessible by the T at the Coolidge Corner stop of the Green line C car.