"But that's not the way it's supposed to be!" is a common thing we say when our expectations fall short. It happens to all of us. Some members of myIBSteam have found the practice of "allowing and letting be" in the midst of a trying to be a way to minimize anxiety or heaviness.

Mindfulness experts suggest a few ways that we can notice -- not push away -- how we feel during difficult moments. There are physical responses we can notice (heaviness in the shoulders, tightness in the chest), and we should also take note of our emotional responses to disappointment (blame, self-doubt, exasperation). These can be opportunities to realign our expectations and extend grace to ourselves.

Here are recent conversations from myIBSteam members:

• "I'm in for a long journey with many tests to come. Doctors on Wednesday more bloods, fibro scans, more oscopies, more blood tests, possible biopsy. GI week on Monday, colorectal surgeon in May. Gonna keep working for as long as I can. My brother did it, so can I.”
• "Today is a good day :) In fact, I've had great days since June 2017. It really bugs me that doctors say there is no cure for IBS...that we need to embrace it when there are natural products that help. I have taken matters into my own hands and have felt the best I've ever felt in over 28 years. Doctors don't give hope ... but there is hope.”
• "Feeling good so far today! Got in an early workout this morning of 4 miles of walking on the treadmill and doing well so far for the start of my afternoon. Hoping that everyone is having a great day and I look forward to connecting with you as I start my journey."

Share how you respond when things fall short of your expectations in the comments below or directly on myIBSteam.com.