Why drinking Water is so important!
What if I told you there was something you could right now that may help to boost not only your health, but your concentration, skin condition, sports performance and energy levels too? That you are lucky enough to have an abundance of it direct at your fingertips on a daily basis? If a new drug came on the market claiming to do all of the above it would be front page news! Yet why is it so hard for many people to fit this one simple task into their already busy routines?
It's a common issue I see time and time again with Massage clients, specifically those dealing with muscle pain...
They. Don't. Drink. Enough. Water.
I'm a huge fan of the clear stuff (especially with lemon juice first thing), but why is it so good for us? What does it actually do....?
It can help with muscle pain!
Yup. That's right, it literally energises your muscles - breathing life into them. Cell's that don't get enough can actually shrivel - resulting in muscle fatigue. Not only this but the body will compensate by decreasing blood circulation, this can slow down the process of getting oxygen to your muscles. Also, drinking the right amount before or during exercise should boost your energy and help to reduce cramps, sprains and injury.
It can help you maintain a healthier weight.
Ensuring we get enough of the clear stuff (no I'm not talking about vodka) may actually help keep you slimmer. By helping your body to eliminate toxins much more efficiently your body won't be holding on to as much waste, this can assist in helping a healthy bowel function, which in turn leads to a more efficient digestion of food. Not only that it can help you maintain a better blood sugar balance meaning it helps curb those sugar cravings, so you'll be less likely to reach for that quick sugary fix come 4pm.
It may help you concentrate.
Your brain is heavily influenced by hydration, so in not drinking enough water your concentration may suffer - making it harder for you to focus and increasing the risk of experiencing headaches. When you become dehydrated the brain just doesn't function as efficiently. If you feel the afternoon slump at work and have difficulty focusing on the task at hand, try keeping some water on your desk to sip throughout the working day (and maybe skip the afternoon skinny latte...)
It could help with inflammation.
By drinking enough and eliminating toxins through your body more productively, you're helping to reduce the likelihood of some painful conditions - such as gout. The water will help lubricate your joints, therefore reducing inflammation.
It can help keep your skin looking radiant!
People often forget that your skin is actually an organ, organs are made up of cell's and cell's need - you guessed it - Water! If the skin isn't hydrated properly this can result in dry, flaky skin an even an increased appearance of wrinkles as the skin will become less resilient. Blemishes may also improve when toxins are eliminated more efficiently!
So how much do I actually need?
The government advises 2.3 litres a day - although this may sound like a lot to those people that are not in the habit of drinking much at all. The easiest way to tell if your getting enough is actually looking at the colour of your urine - a very pale yellow is good, dark brown - not so good.
Some tips on getting enough - buy a water bottle that's BPA free and use it! Not only by doing this are you helping yourself but you'll also be helping the planet by cutting down on plastic - hooray! If you are not keen on the "taste" (even though it doesn't actually taste of anything) - try jazzing up the flavour with the some fruit or cucumber slices. Take it with you, keep it beside you and see if you can feel any benefit from getting enough. I prefer to use a water filter at home to ensure I'm getting the cleanest water possible but that's really a personal preference.
Enjoy the clearer skin and better energy, your welcome.
*Disclaimer! I am not a medical professional and the views described in this blog are not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you are concerned about any of the health issues mentioned it's always advisable to seek help from your GP. *
Massage bookings are available with Maria at the peaceful and serene Serenity salon in Horsford, Norwich. For enquiries and appointment bookings please email norwichmassagecompany@gmail.com
