Healthy Living: Hydration

I used to be so healthy. Then I picked up some bad habits along the way. I got lazy. It was hard to focus on me when there was a family, house and job to manage. I know. I'm preaching to the choir of working moms out there but 2017 was a wake-up call of sorts for me. 

I realized that I'm only one person and that I can't do it all. I might need help sometimes. The laundry might not get done one day or the dishes not washed. It's OK. Isn't what important that I spent quality time with my family? That they are happy?

What is also important is me though? I need to take better care of myself too. By the end of 2017 I was exhausted, moody and just down right blah feeling. I had gained weight from stress and not working out. I had a result on my always impeccable blood work that I didn't like.

So, I have devoted 2018 to getting healthy in all senses of the word. Aside from a ridiculous amount of sickness the last few weeks, I've learned to manage my time better, realize what my priorities are and make time for myself. I'm off to a good start, so now I just need to keep motivated.

A few years ago, I came across the book 52 Small Changes: One Year to a Happier, Healthier You by Brett Blumenthal at Barnes & Noble. Like any good librarian, I wrote down the title and put it on hold at the library later. It's a pretty good book but sadly I never actually tried any of the small changes.

I bought the book after reading it, thinking I would eventually use it. Well, 2018 is the perfect opportunity to embark on a journey through this book. Little changes. Anyone can do that right? I mean I'm not going to try some crazy diet or fitness fad - it's one little change a week.

The first change is to: Drink an adequate amount of water each day to maintain a healthy level of hydration. Easy one might think? Yes and no. We have a filtration system at work, so I always (try to) drink as much as I can there but I'm not drinking enough at home.

To jump start my hydration habit I filled the pitchers of water at home, always kept a cup around while working and downloaded My Water app. It helps track how much you drink and sends tips throughout the day that are also quiet reminders to make sure you are hydrating.

I've always drank a lot of water. Water is my non-alcoholic drink of choice so this change was more of improving a habit I had already cultivated and being consistent. It's amazing how great you feel when you are hydrated and awake in the afternoons when you start to feel sluggish.

So, my challenge to you this week is are you drinking enough water? Drink up my friends!