IBS MEANS... Knowing Your Exits

It’s 3:00 in the afternoon. It’s a beautiful day, the sun is shining, a cool breeze flows through my hair. I’m sitting at a small, wrought iron bistro set just outside my favorite coffee shop. I look around me and smile at the people walking by, blissfully sipping my latte and enjoying my new book of the week. I turn the page, eager to finish this chapter when suddenly I notice a change within me. I look sheepishly over my shoulder and see that the coast is clear. Calmly, I take a deep breath… and let one rip.

We’ve all been there. Unfortunately, we are not always in a situation where our IBS symptoms can be easily dealt with. In this day and age being stuck in public spaces is simply part of the package we call life. Coffee is also a must––which can often pose its own problems. Put these two things together and, well, disaster can often strike. So, in this second installment of IBS MEANS… I would like to remind you to be aware of your surroundings. Looking for bathroom or exit signs can help calm your IBS anxieties. When you sit down in a coffee house, pub, or public library, remember to take a quick glance around the room. Knowing that bathrooms are available and where they are can have an immensely positive impact upon your worries and, in turn, your IBS symptoms. After all, IBS MEANS… knowing your exits.