Living in Sub-Saharan Africa where the temperatures reach the levels of what I imagine hell would feel like, on a regular basis (winter excluded), staying hydrated should be a top priority, especially now that the heat has creeped back in!
If the heat in this country isn’t motivation enough to keep you chugging gallons of water then I don’t know what will! I know that with the drought that the country is currently experiencing, the thought of consuming this precious resource may seem daunting but I would rather stay well hydrated than have my car washed or keep plants in my yard that consume too much water. If you see me driving around Windhoek with a dusty VW, you will realize just how serious I am about hydrating.
I find it extremely shocking to find the lack of water being sold or consumed at some sporting events in the country. I am also aware that many people find drinking water to be boring but fortunately, there are so many other ways to stay hydrated. From drinking a variety of herbal teas, to lemon or mint leaf infused water, to sipping on a wide assortment of green juices or even coconut water, the options are endless.
The fact that water forms about 60% of our body make up is a sure sign that we should be consuming liquids regularly. Keeping our bodies hydrated means saying ‘Bye Felicia’ to constipation (ouch) and thirst, and saying ‘Hello’ to better looking skin, higher levels of energy, weight maintenance, healthier kidneys as well as regulate our body temperature! Besides all of that, if you have an active lifestyle then water should be your best friend because this loyal drink helps to ward off dehydration and avoid unnecessary muscle cramps too.
We should of course avoid the consumption of what I like to call the “frenemy drinks” these are the liquids that are overpowered by heaps and heaps of sugar, the fake friend that tricks us into thinking that we are hydrating when we’re actually not. Constantly consuming soft drinks means that we are literally drinking calories and increase the risk of obesity and other health problems or drinks overloaded with fizz which could leave us feeling heavy and bloated with little to no nutritional components. Because liquids form such an important part of a healthy lifestyle, it is important to make the right decisions when it comes to what types of drinks we consume and how often.
Here are some things that I personally do that I’ve noticed have been super helpful in keeping me hydrated:
- Make sure the first thing that I consume in the morning is a tall glass of water;
- Drink a soothing cup of relaxing tea like Green Tea or Chamomile before bed;
- Carry a bottle of water with me EVERY WHERE (I forbid myself from leaving the house without my water bottle or tea flask);
- Order a glass of water with every meal when eating out, (water compliments dinner wines so beautifully)!!!
Try to challenge yourself to consuming the recommended 8 glasses every day and don’t forget to raise your glass and make a toast to your health, yourself, your body and your wellness.
Cheers!
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