In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, water is considered essential for maintaining a healthy balance in the body. It is not only important how much water you drink, but especially how you drink it. By applying these principles, you can improve your digestion, increase your energy, and promote your overall well-being.
1. Start the day with warm water
According to Ayurveda, drinking warm water in the morning is a powerful way to cleanse your digestive tract and get rid of waste products that have accumulated during the night. It also helps to get your metabolism going and feel more energetic.
2. Drink warm or room-temperature water
Drinking cold water can extinguish your digestive fire (Agni), according to Ayurveda, which can lead to reduced nutrient absorption. It is therefore advisable to drink water at room temperature or slightly heated. This promotes better digestion and helps eliminate toxins.
3. Take small sips throughout the day
Instead of drinking large amounts of water in one sitting, it’s better to take small sips throughout the day. This will help your body absorb the water better and prevent you from feeling bloated. It also helps to quench your thirst in a natural way.
Extra tip: Place your water bottle in places where you often sit, such as your desk or table, to make it easy on yourself.
4. Drink while seated
Ayurveda recommends drinking water sitting down rather than standing. Drinking while standing up can disrupt the balance of your body fluids and lead to the accumulation of excess fluids in the body. By drinking while sitting, you give your body a chance to absorb and distribute the water effectively.
5. Avoid excessive drinking during meals
It is recommended not to drink too much water during meals, as this can dilute digestive acids and hinder digestion. It is better to drink water an hour before or after meals. If you do feel thirsty while eating, take small sips of warm water or an herbal infusion, such as CCF tea (cumin, coriander, and fennel), which supports digestion.
6. Use a suitable drinking bottle
Choosing the right water bottle can contribute to a conscious and healthy hydration practice. For example, a glass drinking bottle is an excellent choice because it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals that can be found in plastic. Glass bottles are also reusable, which contributes to a more sustainable lifestyle.
By implementing these Ayurvedic principles, you can optimize your hydration practices and contribute to improved health and well-being.
