#Chronicwellness: Water

It makes up over 60% of our bodies overall, and over  70% of our brain and heart.
It regulates our body temperature, delivers nutrients to our cells, flushes out toxins, lubricates our joints, supports our immune system, keeps the digestive system moving smoothly, and serves as the conduit for our nervous system.
​And that’s just for starters.

What is this miracle substance, you may ask?

Water. Humble, basic, life giving water.

We chose water as our first #chronicwellness theme because it’s so essential not just to well-being, but to life. Re-read that first paragraph, and imagine where the lack of water would leave you: Overheated, full of toxins, nutrient deprived and stiff, a sort of constipated Tin Man. Not a pretty picture!
On the other hand, when you make water the cornerstone of your #chronicwellness, here’s just a few of the benefits you’ll reap:

• Water Decreases arthritic and joint pain
• Slows down the aging process and makes the skin smoother
• Is essential for the body to sweat and release toxins
• Helps move toxic waste in your body and carries it to the liver and kidneys for removal
• Lessens addictive urges, including caffeine, alcohol and certain drugs
• Allows for efficient body repair
• Helps red blood cells to carry oxygen and results in better muscle function and mental acuity
• Can prevent headaches or lessen the pain
• Prevents cramps and sprains Increases energy and relieves fatigue

OK, so it’s pretty darn important. Now the question is, how much should you drink?

“Current practice is a minimum of 64 ounces of water each day for an average person and up to ½ ounce per pound of body weight for smaller or larger people,” says licensed massage therapist Lisa Franklin.  “Keep in mind, this is pure water, not the ice in your rum and coke, or the water you assume is in your tea or coffee.  Those drinks are actually dehydrating you even more!  Plain, clean water is your best friend in your health.”

Sixty-four ounces, give or take, may sound like a daunting amount of water, but there are lots of tips and tricks for making sure you get your daily dose of H2O. Certified reflexologist Tracy McGovern likes to fill two 32-ounce mason jars with filtered water every morning and pour from them throughout the day to be sure she stays hydrated. For folks who don’t like water, she suggests adding some fruit for flavoring.

How do you incorporate water into your #chronicwellness? Share your stories, tips, and tricks with us on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to tag us at #chronicwellness and #cwquakertown!