Yoga for a Healthy Gut

with Christina Unger, MSN, RN, FNP-BC


Anyone who has felt butterflies in their stomach before a big event or had rumblings and pain in

their belly before a test or interview realizes that the gut and brain are in constant bidirectional

communication. Disruption in normal signals between the gut and brain can cause

hypersensitivity in the digestive tract that results in pain and “dis-ease”. Miscommunication

between the gut and brain disrupts motility and is a factor in the increased discomfort and

anxiety experienced by many patients with disorders of gut-brain communication (DGBIs). The

constant stress of our fast-paced lives contributes to overstimulation of the sympathetic

nervous system that regulates the primitive but necessary fight or flight response. While

the sympathetic tone is increased by our habitual patterns, the activity of our parasympathetic

nervous system responsible for rest, digestion, and reproduction is reduced.


Join us for an exploration of common digestive issues and learn postures and breathing

techniques that will benefit the mind, body, belly, and microbiome!


Week 1: Benefits of Yoga for Maintaining a Healthy Gut

Week 2: What are Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction?

Week 3: Mindfulness and Breathing for a Healthy You

Week 4: The Gut-Brain-Microbiome Connection

Each session will have a 15 -20 minute discussion followed by yoga, breathwork, and relaxation.



11109 Sunset Hills Rd, Reston, VA 20190