Most of us aren’t drinking enough water.
On top of the long school days, messy sleep schedules, and random meal times, it is vital that we stay on top of our body’s needs. Water is key to our body’s main functions and overall health.
Hydration could be influencing your day to day fatigue, drowsiness, and foggy thoughts. It is vital that we make these hydration habits a priority as we get into the groove of the school year. Moisturized skin, healthy hair, and a clear conscience could all be yours. All of these aspects are altered by one’s water intake. Studies suggest women should drink about 2.7 liters of water every day. Here is how to make those two-ish liters feel like nothing!
The easiest, most effective way to get started on your hydration journey is what I call the first and last rule: first thing in the morning and last thing before bed. Naturally we become dehydrated in our sleep. According to the Sleep Foundation, we lose fluids through our skin, breathing, and our circadian rhythm (internal clock). So, to combat the loss, keep a glass of at least eight ounces of water on a bedside table that is easy to access pre and post sleep. When you wake up reach for the glass, never push yourself to finish it, but awaken your internal clock and let your body know its hydration time. This will kick start your day in incredible ways. Pinnacle Care Internal Medicine says that drinking water first thing in the morning flushes your stomach and lymphatic system. In turn, this aids your immunity and blood flow, along with external aspects such as completion and pore size. The same goes for when you are getting ready for sleep. About an hour before resting, using an eight ounce glass, take a couple of sips to cap off your day. This last action will aid your body in detoxing while sleeping, and get you prepared for the next day of hydration.
To aid yourself and the planet on your hydration journey, get a reusable water bottle. I recommend at least a liter (1000 milliliters). This method is my personal favorite, I call it the three times rule. Not only will you be able to personalize your bottle, but you’re also reducing your carbon footprint by reusing material all while staying hydrated. At the beginning of every day, start with a fresh full liter in your bottle of choice. Mid-way throughout your day, at whatever time this may be, refill and get your second liter in. For the last portion of your day, fill your bottle one last time and conquer your hydration goal. Personally, I like to line each of the three liters up with my meals or class schedule, depending on the day. This method will help you gage your day in three separate portions rather than trying to chug sixteen ounces every twenty minutes. You will be surprised when you get to the last liter, that you have reached the mark of the recommended amount. If you have issues with remembering, set a reminder. Never turn it off, or set it as recurring. This will remind you: what portion of your day you’re in while keeping your water intake on track.
Staying hydrated doesn’t have to be something we have to think about on top of our hectic schedules. Our bodies’ main functions internally and externally thrive off hydration. I challenge you to drink water first and last thing every day! Use these tips, and apply them to your days this week. Make these habits a commitment to your body. Stay hydrated, focused, and healthy!