Hydration, HYDRATION, HyDrAtIoN!

Most of my clients in the Greenwich, Fairfield, Darien, Norwich and Stamford area are familiar with my reminders to hydrate constantly.  No, I don’t have stock in water companies, however I do have a stock in your well-being :)

Here are some quick tips and reminders about hydration:

1. A hydrated body is a happy body!  All of your physical systems are dependent on water.  Our physiology uses water to complete everything our cells, tissues, organs, and even mental well-being needs, so staying hydrated is key in helping these systems function properly.
2. Light yellow color is what we are aiming for. 
3. Massaging body tissues helps body fluids start flowing, so being adequately hydrated is super important in making sure our waste products are leaving the body and our nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and energy are getting where they need to go. Try to hydrate before and definitely after your scheduled massages.
4. Don’t wait until you are thirsty to drink because at the time you feel thirsty, your body is already slightly dehydrated.
5. Women should drink at least 11.5 cups (2.7 liters of water) and men should drink at least 15.5 cups (3.7 liters of water) a day.
6. Start your day off on the right foot and drink a glass of water first thing in the morning.
7. Carry a bottle of water with you and you will drink way more water than if you “find” it along your way throughout the day :)
8. Eat water-rich fruits and vegetables. Your body will function optimally when it is receiving water from many sources, especially those containing vitamins and minerals.
    

Fruits and vegetables high in water content includes:

• Zucchini
• Lettuce
• Cucumbers
• Celery
• Broccoli
• Bell Peppers
• Oranges
• Peaches
• Pineapple
• Berries
• Melons such was watermelon, honeydew, or cantaloupe

Your body needs minerals and electrolytes, so be sure to include those in your water.  It is important to make sure that you are drinking water that includes minerals which are crucial in your body’s systems to function properly.  
The minerals your body needs at some level includes:

• Sodium
• Potassium
• Chloride
• Calcium
• Phosphate
• Magnesium

Looking for a good electrolyte mix to add to your water bottle? I recommend that you try Redmond Salt Electrolytes.  I use them and really think they do a great job of enhancing my hydration and the hydration of my clients.  I do not get a kick-back from them so don’t worry, I’m recommending them out of personal experience :) 

If you’d like to hear my hydration lecture in person, bring it up with me during our next massage or brainwork session at Posture Massage! Either way you will feel your best if you hydrate, hydrate, hydrate!!