Books + Resources on the Gut-Brain Connection

Every so often, I am asked for recommendations for books about the digestive tract. As the epicenter of our immune systems and a regulator of mood, it's a place of mystery and discovery. Here are some resources I've enjoyed and recommend to others:

The Nervous System Connection

(Resources)

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This book is accessible and straight-forward, outlining in guided practices how our nervous systems move from states of protection to connection and various points in between (and you better believe affects digestion)!

Belleruth Naperstek's guided meditations in the Health Journeys series have been studied in over 2 dozen clinical trials and have been shown to be effective at reducing stress and improving outcomes associated with many health challenges, physical and mental. I personally found this to be true for anxiety specific to surgery. Her topics range from chemotherapy stress support, menopause stress, to IBS and IBD and everything in between. You can sleep listen if you prefer, and it can still be supportive. I don't know how it works, but it does (or did for me)!

Insight Timer is an app for guided meditation practice (which, through supporting the nervous system, supports the digestive system). There are hundreds of free options, no experience necessary.

Other Related Resources

A Western contextual approach on body-related psychology and nervous system regulation and generational trauma, written by a Minneapolis-based social worker.

One of the most memorable and beautifully written books I have encountered. It is clearly a work from the heart, and will always be regarded in mine!

When possible, taking time out for reflection can help with resetting your nervous system. These photos are taken at Cloud Mountain Retreat Center in Washington, a restorative and supportive place of refuge. If you ever go on retreat, you might hear a lot of people's digestive systems working (from that rest and digest state) -- but it's a good thing! :)