By Chelsea Jo Conard
As we begin moving into the warmer months, it’s super important to stay hydrated!
You’re thinking, “I know, I know! 8 glasses a day, blah blah blah…”
Well, here’s the thing – not everyone needs exactly 8 glasses a day. Here’s a good way to find out how much water you need… Your weight divided by 2 = the number of ounces you should shoot for each day.
And I get it – this is easier said than done when you’re first starting down the road to health. So I’ve put together 10 TIPS TO SNEAK YOURSELF MORE WATER WITHOUT EVEN REALIZING IT!
1. Make it a morning ritual, like brushing your teeth.
Drink a big ol’ glass of water in the A.M. to start your day by hydrating your bod and flushing out toxins. In the beginning, you may need to sip the water until you’re used to it. Add some lemon for an even better tasting, more effective detox and to help alkalize your system.
2. Be a fancy pants.
Water can be boring. So make it funky in a fun glass. Water in a pretty martini glass? Yes, please. If you’re used to drinking soda, try a baby step to sparkling water. You can add some lemon, lime, or pure cranberry for flavor. And put your pinky up and say, “Darling…”
3. Play with the temp.
Sometimes cold water is refreshing, but sometimes warm or hot water is where it’s at. I prefer warm water in the mornings. Experiment with different temperatures and see what you like best.
4. Add some flavor.
Add even more spunk by adding some ginger and a touch of honey to your warm water. A very gentle wake-me-up. Or try adding some goji berries, some cucumber, or some lemon to shake it up. And my favorite… add some fresh mint leaves!
5. Drink whenever you feel a sugar craving.
Physiologically, a sugar craving is a very similar sensation to thirst. So before you reach for the double chocolate cheesecake, try having some water. Your body (and your waistline) will thank you.
6. Make the switch, and save some moolah.
Water is FREE in restaurants. Choose water (with lemon if you like) as your restaurant beverage of choice. Stick with it, and after a while it becomes a habit.
7. Keep it handy.
Carry around a stainless steel water bottle with you at all times. Or always have a cup of water at your desk. You’ll save money and the environment by not buying plastic water bottles.
8. Ding ding!
If you’re one who likes schedules, make a reminder to drink water every hour on the hour.
9. Add water to your skincare regimen.
Water does a lot more for your face than any eye-lifting, wrinkle-melting cream any day. Drink, cleanse, moisturize, drink.
10. Exercise.
This is an easy one. A good workout will make you want to guzzle. (But go for the water instead of the sugary sports drinks, which could dehydrate you further.)
