Hi, Steph!
It sounds like you and I have a lot in common. I teach English in LA County, and yes, stress can play a huge role. Here's what has worked for me in no particular order:
1. I did the hypnotherapy CDs. They really helped me learn to relax and let go, and I think I internalize my stress a lot less now. I cringe when I think back on my first few years teaching (I'm now in my 8th), because first I gave myself stress-induced allergies, and then when outside stressors (death in the family) got added in, I found myself with IBS! Seriously, I think the CDs are a worthwhile investment. 2. If mornings are a problem for you, request 8:00 a.m. (first period) prep. I didn't get it this year, but I had it for about three years in a row, and it was heaven! I could eat my breakfast at a leisurely pace and even if I started cramping, it was no big deal because I had no students! This year I have 9 a.m. prep, so if my tummy is feeling at all iffy, I just hold off on eating my breakfast until then. 3. In connection with that, if mornings are rough for you, wake and eat as late as possible. I shower at night so I can sleep an extra 30 minutes in the morning, and I don't eat my oatmeal with acacia until I've been awake at least an hour. That minimizes the chance of disaster. Alternatively, if your attacks tend to be long, drawn-out affairs, allow more time in the morning so you won't get stressed about being late to work! 4. Don't be afraid to use an Immodium now and then. I have never really relied on Immodium, but sometimes the tummy just will not cooperate. If I'm just feeling crampy and like it's going to be a bad belly day, I'll take 1/2 an Immodium and just stop things in their tracks--without overmedicating and constipating myself. If it's the middle of class, I'll tell kids I "have a headache" so they think it's Tylenol when I reach for the bottle. Because I take Immodium so rarely (maybe three times a month), I can usually stop the cramping without even heading to the loo. 5. Eat very safely during the school day. Insoluble fiber is important, but I save that for after school hours! During the school day, my fruits tend to be unsweetened applesauce and a banana. 6. Tell one or both of your neighboring teachers. When my symptoms were really bad, I'd often open my neighbor's door and give her "the look," and she'd babysit my class while I went to the bathroom. If the kids are working independently, they often won't even notice that you've headed out until you return.
That's all I can think of for now. If you have any questions, just let me know!
-------------------- Christine
Those who can do; those who want it done better teach.
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