Since childhood we have been taught that water is good for us. In fact, we were told we can’t live without it. While all of those things are fundamentally true, there are multiple things to consider before you take that next sip.
As an Ayurvedic Counselor, I see many who struggle with their digestion due to common misconceptions about how we should be consuming our food and beverages. With the unparalleled amount of information available to us today, it can be an overwhelming feeling of knowing what to do for our bodies. This is where the magic of Ayurveda is transformative.
For those of you who may be new to the Ayurvedic space, Ayurveda is considered by many scholars to be the oldest healing science dating back to 5,000 B.C. With its roots in ancient India, it’s based on the notion that good health depends on the balance between our mind, body and spirit.
When we choose to make a few simple shifts to our habits, we’re able to cultivate balance within our mind and body. But before changes can be made, we must first understand the common wellness mistakes we are subjecting ourselves to. To help you get on the right track, here are a few easy to implement, yet important Ayurvedic tips to drinking water.
Ayurvedic Tips to Drink Water
Drink Water at Room Temperature or Warmer
A lot of us reach for an ice cold glass of water when we’re thirsty, but in Ayurveda, drinking cold water is a no, no. Why? Consider your stomach a bonfire. If you were to dump cold water on that fire, what would happen? It dies out immediately, right? Think of your digestive system the same way. When you choose to eat or drink cold beverages, you’re hindering proper digestion which can accumulate as toxins within the body. Drinking warm water helps to flush out the toxins and keep your digestive system on track, which is why it is always advised to drink room temperature water throughout the day.
Know the Indicators Your Body Gives You When You Are Thirsty
Do you listen to your body for hydration cues? There are three indicators that are frequently overlooked, but easy to spot. The first and most common is thirst. When you find that your mouth is parched, take a sip of water. The second is the color of your urine. A dark yellow color may indicate dehydration, while fairly clear and straw colored urine is a sign of good hydration. Another dehydration indicator is dry or chapped lips, so instead of reaching for your chapstick, look for your water.
Sit Down to Drink Rather Than Standing
Just like you sit to eat, it’s important that you sit to drink. This is because it allows your body to properly filter the nutrients and direct the water to areas in your body that need nourishing, rather than going directly into your stomach with force, as it does when you’re standing. By choosing to drink and stand, it can also disrupt the balance of fluids within your body and can lead to arthritis due to greater accumulation of fluids in the joints.
Take Small Sips, No Chugging
Chugging should always be avoided, as the force involved with chugging disrupts your internal organs due to its rapid splashing on its way down. A golden rule is to always keep your body in a state of relaxation so your organs can work efficiently. The next time you take a drink, make it a point to drink in small sips; slowly and mindfully. By doing this, you’re reducing the stress on your heart while giving your body more time to absorb the water.
