The relationship between the intestines and the autonomic nervous system: Why regulating your stomach calms your mind ~The scientific reason why the intestines are called the "second brain"~
Explains why the intestines are called the "second brain." Shiatsu therapy can improve the intestines and autonomic nervous system, alleviating constipation, stress, and insomnia. How to regain "mental stability" through your stomach.
"I've been feeling a bit unsettled lately," "My stomach is bloated due to stress," "I'm suffering from persistent constipation."
In such cases, the intestines and autonomic nervous system are actually deeply related.
Even in the field of chiropractic, there are many voices saying, "When I loosen my stomach, even my mind becomes refreshed."
This is the moment when you feel the connection between your gut and your heart.
◆ Why the intestines are called the "second brain"
There are approximately 100 million nerve cells inside the intestine.
It has been shown that they can function independently without commands from the brain.
This is called the enteric nervous system (ENS), and it produces almost the same neurotransmitters (such as serotonin) as the brain.
Serotonin is known as the "happiness hormone" and is an essential substance for maintaining mental stability.
About 90% of it is made in the intestines.
In other words, when your intestinal function is disrupted, it can lead to mood swings and anxiety.
◆ The relationship between the autonomic nervous system and the intestines
Intestinal movement is controlled by the autonomic nervous system (sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems).
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Sympathetic nerves (active mode) → Suppresses bowel movement
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Parasympathetic nervous system (rest mode) → promotes bowel movement
When stress continues, the sympathetic nervous system becomes dominant and intestinal function decreases.
Symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, gas, and loss of appetite are more likely to occur.
On the other hand, when bowel movements improve, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated,
You will naturally switch to a relaxed state.
◆ "Adjusting the intestines and autonomic nervous system" through chiropractic
At the Re・Set chiropractic salon,
By adjusting the balance of the abdomen, pelvis and spine,
Supports intestinal function from the inside.
1. Gentle abdominal approach (intestinal massage chiropractic)
Gently loosen stiff abdominal muscles and fascia around the intestines,
Improves blood and lymph flow, and stimulates intestinal peristalsis.
② Pelvic and spine adjustment
It corrects misalignment of the spine through which the autonomic nervous system passes, and smooths the flow of nerves.
Correcting pelvic misalignment stabilizes the position of the intestines, relieving constipation and abdominal distension.
3. Regulate your breathing rhythm
Breathing and bowel movements are linked.
By adjusting the diaphragm (respiratory muscle), the intestinal massage effect is enhanced,
It also enhances the relaxation effect.
◆ "Intestinal relaxation care" that can be done at home
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Belly circle massage
→ Slowly draw a circle clockwise around your belly button. -
Take three deep breaths (inhale for 4 seconds, exhale for 6 seconds)
→ The parasympathetic nervous system is activated, and intestinal movement becomes more active. -
A cup of hot water in the morning
→ Gently warm your stomach and intestines to get your day started.
◆ When you regulate your stomach, your mind will also become regulated.
"When your gut is healthy, you feel better"
That's no coincidence.
The intestines and the autonomic nervous system are connected in both directions.
By keeping your body in shape, your mind will also become more stable.
At Hashimoto's chiropractic salon Re・Set,
We offer "intestinal therapy chiropractic" to harmonize the intestines, pelvis, spine, and breathing in a comprehensive manner.
If you want to be relieved from stomach problems and stress, please feel free to contact us.
自律神経が乱れやすい人の体ケア法
→ 季節や気圧の変化で不調が出やすい人向けに、呼吸・姿勢・生活習慣の整え方を解説。
📍URL： https://seitai-reset.net/blog/20250731-1608/
Intestinal autonomic nervous system / Intestinal massage and chiropractic / Constipation relief Hashimoto's / Mental stability
