My own personal theory is that many of us IBS'ers are more sensitive and aware of our bodies and bodily functions than others; this doesn't CAUSE IBS but it certainly doesn't help our perception of the problem. I too am very aware of my intestines and bowels, feeling them gurgle and pain down there...Sometimes, forcing yourself to think of other things will help. At work, I'll just force myself to focus on my work and it usually works at least for a while. Sometimes deep breathing helps, or if I just close my eyes to take a mental break...Good luck!