Over the past few months, more and more people have been asking me: “How is The Calm Gut® different from Nerva?”
It’s a great question — especially for anyone searching for the best IBS app to manage symptoms through the gut-brain connection.
Both apps aim to support people with IBS using gut-directed hypnotherapy and other evidence-based mind-body techniques. But the way they approach healing — and the experience they offer — is very different.
If you’re trying to decide which IBS app is right for you, this article will walk you through the key differences to help you make an informed choice.
What is Nerva?
Nerva is a 6-week gut-directed hypnotherapy program, originally developed in collaboration with Monash University. It’s designed to help users manage IBS symptoms through daily 15-minute audio sessions, paired with educational readings and simple breathing exercises.
Recently, Nerva acquired Mahana app, and will soon start incorporating CBT elements — though the primary focus remains gut-directed hypnotherapy.
The app is currently available on iOS and Android only, and users must be online to access sessions. In-app support is available for technical assistance, and there’s no built-in community or personalised guidance.
Subscriptions are available as a monthly (£41.99), 3-month (£49.99), or annual (£149) plan, all with a 7-day free trial.
What Makes The Calm Gut App Different?
The Calm Gut® is evidence-based, grounded in the same psychological and behavioural principles shown to help people with IBS — including gut-directed hypnotherapy, CBT techniques, and nervous system regulation.
It was created out of real-life experience — not just clinical studies, but years of working one-on-one with people who felt let down by rigid programs, food rules, or generic advice. If you’ve ever felt like other IBS, meditation or hypnosis apps missed the emotional, human side of healing — you’re not alone. That’s why this app exists.
Here’s what makes it different:
- Over 200 sessions including:
- Gut-directed hypnotherapy (both symptom focused and general digestion)
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and mindset tools tailored for IBS
- Guided breathing exercises, body scans, and somatic calming
- Affirmations and visualisations
- Specialised programs such as:
- The Mind-Gut Reset (28 days)
- Overcome Food Anxiety (7 days)
- Reset Your Nervous System (14 days)
- Calm Reset for the New Year (7 days)
- Other features including:
- Web + App Access — listen on your phone or desktop browser
- Downloadable sessions for offline use — ideal for flights, travel, or low connectivity
- Supportive in-app community — connect, share, and feel less alone
- Created by a gut-focused therapist with 8 years of 1:1 client experience and lived experience of overcoming IBS
- Lower-cost flexible options – £14.99/month or £89.99/year, with a 7-day free trial (local currency available via the app store/web purchase)
More Than IBS: Supporting the Whole You
The Calm Gut® is designed to support not just your digestion — but your whole experience of living with IBS. That includes the anxiety, overthinking, food fears, and the need for connection and hope. While Nerva focuses solely on IBS symptoms, The Calm Gut® includes tools for:
- Sleep (hypnosis, wind-downs, and bedtime body scans)
- Anxiety and stress (daily calming practices)
- Headaches, migraines, and hormonal balance
- SIBO & Inflammation specific hypnosis
- Whole-body healing and emotional resilience
IBS is rarely just about the gut. The Calm Gut® recognises that — and supports every part of you along the way.
Both apps offer a 7-day free trial, but The Calm Gut® provides a lower-cost option with additional tools for whole-body healing and emotional support.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Best IBS App
| Feature | Nerva | The Calm Gut® |
|---|---|---|
| Main Focus | Gut-directed hypnotherapy + CBT (6-week plan) | Gut-directed hypnotherapy + CBT + nervous system tools |
| Session Count | ~42 sessions | 200+ sessions (and growing) |
| Program Variety | One 6-week program + maintenance | Multiple programs + ongoing access |
| Support | In-app technical support | In-app community for peer support and personal guidance |
| Platform Access | App only | Mobile App + Web Browser |
| Offline Listening | ❌ Internet required | ✅ Downloadable sessions |
| Wider Support Topics | ❌ IBS only | ✅ Sleep, stress, hormones, whole-body care |
| Subscription Options | Monthly (£41.99), 3 Months (£49.99), Annual (£149) | Monthly (£14.99) or Annual (£89.99). Local currency available at checkout. |
| Free Trial | Yes – 7 days | Yes – 7 days |
What People Are Saying About The Calm Gut
It’s one thing for me to describe what The Calm Gut® offers — but it’s another to hear from people who’ve actually used it. Here are just a few words from users who’ve found real relief, calm, and support through the app:
“I have started with this app a few weeks ago. I find it very helpful – there are lots of different recordings to listen to to suit different issues and what works for you. Personally I like the sea and pool visualisations – very calming. It has helped eased my anxiety too. Jayne has a very soothing voice and the background music helps too. I’ve found her explanations about IBS very clear and help me understand what is going on. Jayne also couldn’t have been more helpful and patient when I had problems signing into the app – all easily resolved. Thank you Jayne!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – App Store User
“I downloaded this app in desperation with my ongoing stomach issues. There are so many options to listen to – hypnosis, breathing exercises and useful information. Jayne has the most wonderful soothing voice, and the hypnosis journeys are beautifully written so are a pleasure to listen to. As I said, there’s also plenty of variety so you can listen to different things each day. I have found it very relaxing and calming, and definitely notice an easing of some of my symptoms. Brilliant app, I highly recommend it.”⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐- App Store User
Calm & Personal Connection
The Calm Gut® doesn’t just give you tools — it offers a space where you can feel genuinely supported, understood, and safe.
There’s no pressure to rush through a fixed plan. You move at a pace that feels right for you.
You’re not alone in this process. Through the in-app community, you can connect with others who truly understand what it’s like to live with IBS. It’s a space where you can ask questions, share your progress, or simply feel seen — without judgement.
This isn’t just about managing symptoms — it’s about restoring trust in your body and mind. The sessions are grounded in real-world experience, created by someone who’s worked with hundreds of clients and personally walked the IBS recovery path.
It’s support that feels personal, compassionate, and deeply attuned to what living with IBS is really like.
Still Deciding?
If you’ve tried Nerva and it helped — that’s great! But if you’re still looking for something more supportive, more flexible, and more emotionally resonant… The Calm Gut® app is here when you’re ready.
Whether you’re working through bloating, anxiety, urgency, or the emotional fallout of years of digestive issues — there’s something here to support you.
Try The Calm Gut App Today
Want to see why so many people call it the best IBS app they’ve tried?
Start your free 7-day trial of The Calm Gut® today — and begin feeling more calm, in control, and connected: Start your free 7-day trial here.
Disclaimer: All information about Nerva and The Calm Gut® is correct at the time of publishing. Features, pricing, and availability may change (published May 2025).
