50 Lil' Habits: Drink Water
"Get sunshine and plenty of water, you’re basically a houseplant with moods."
Our "go big or go home" culture has left many people feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and gloomy, when all it takes is a lil’ action to turn things around.
Want to try out a new daily habit? I've got a few suggestions.
Here's one:
Stay hydrated, my friend!
If I’m ever feeling fatigued, unfocused, moody, or I experience headaches or nausea, my first thought is “Go hydrate, dummy!” Drinking water is an excellent daily habit that can give immediate results, even when you improve a lil’.
Chances are you need more water – according to studies, most Americans don’t drink enough. When we don’t drink enough water, our body and mind can’t function at their best. The amount we need varies person to person, but a reasonable goal is 6-8 glasses per day.
“Not drinking enough water can negatively affect your mood. Without water, the brain can't get enough of the amino acid tryptophan needed to create serotonin, also known as the "feel good" chemical. That's a big problem because serotonin is the neurotransmitter that regulates mood. Increasing your water intake will promote happiness, allowing your brain to continue making serotonin.”
–Taylor Leamey, Sleep Science Coach
When I stay hydrated, everything works better, even my immune system. I’m happier, I feel better, think more clearly, and sleep better.
5 Tips to Support Your New Hydration Habit
Set reminders on your watch or phone.
Use a Water Tracker app on your smart device to gameify your new habit.
Drink a glass of water before every snack and meal.
Carry a reusable bottle with you wherever you go.
Mix it up. Drink herbal teas, infused water, coconut water, water-based smoothies.
If this LIL’ HABIT resonates with you, help make it stick by talking about it with a friend.
Staying properly hydrated is an easy path to better health & wellness. That said, if you run into trouble following through on this new daily habit, remember, when you start anything new or take something to the next level, you must step outside your comfort zone and greet your Resistance.
I'm totally a moody fern.