Adventures in Polishland

Happy Tuesday! Today on the blog I’m talking about water. This might seem a little bit weird at first, but as I’m focusing on my health more than ever, I wanted to share my hydration story with you. Growing up, I hated the taste of water, as silly as that sounds. I would drink flavored water daily, and the only time I would drink regular water was after my dance classes or band rehearsals. As I got older, I slowly began to realize how important it is to stay hydrated. My life changed when I got a Brita pitcher, and this past summer I truly saw how water can transform your health. I wanted to share my experience with you, and also share some of my favorite products, in hopes that those who dislike water like I did can learn to love it!

First things first, I want to mention that I am not a doctor or nutritionist, and am only speaking about my own personal experiences. If you would like to learn more, please speak with your doctor. I also looked at THIS article from the Mayo Clinic for guidance in writing this post.

MY HYDRATION STORY

As I mentioned in this post’s introduction, I used to really dislike the taste of water. The first time I truly began to drink water regularly was my junior year in college. I had just received a Brita pitcher as a gift, and I was away for a semester-long internship in New York City. Since I was responsible for my own food, I decided to save money by not buying any drinks. Instead, I drank tap water. It was a struggle at first, but I kept pushing myself, and soon I got used to drinking water all the time. This was a real turning point in my hydration story, and it was the first time water became a part of my daily routine.

Fast forward to this past summer, when I was studying for the bar. I was sitting at my desk for 15+ hours everyday studying. I basically got up only to refill my water, get some food, or visit the restroom for that entire period of time. Because I was so focused on my studies, and had a routine-driven life, I suddenly began to notice a lot of changes with my health. Although I was seriously stressed, there were a lot of positives taking place, and I knew water was responsible for that.

Here is a quick list of the big changes I saw in my body:

• Moisturized Skin – This was the first thing I noticed! My skin felt so hydrated and plush. I even stopped using a daily moisturizer because I didn’t need it. I applied a moisturizing serum daily, and that was enough.
• More Energy – As much as I love my morning coffee, I always like to drink a big cup of water first thing when I get up. Not only does it help to restore my body’s hydration after resting overnight, but it gives me a natural boost of energy.
• Positive Attitude – I also noticed that I had a better attitude when I was hydrated. I’m not as tired or sluggish, my body is functioning better, and that leads to me feeling good mentally as well. This became clear to me on the days when I wouldn’t drink enough water and felt grouchy. I definitely think there is a correlation between the two.
• Stronger Nails and Hair – Of course, drinking a lot of water can also help to strengthen your nails and hair. I luckily have strong nails naturally, but my hair can be very brittle and prone to breaking. During bar study I noticed a lot of hair loss and dullness due to stress, but I think it would have been ten times worse if I wasn’t drinking enough water.

THE TOOLS YOU NEED

Learning to love water becomes a lot easier with the right tools! Here are three things that I use every single day that I think would really help you, too.

Brita Everyday Water Pitcher – 10 Cup

I think a Brita pitcher is essential! I only drink tap water, and although the tap water where I live is clean, I do like to take the extra step and filter it. I have a 10-cup pitcher, but they do make smaller sizes if you prefer to take up less space in your fridge. My water always tastes crisp and clean, and I do take care to change the filter regularly and clean the pitcher, too. Brita is an investment at first, but it will save you money in the long run, and is also much better for the environment.

Aladdin Insulated Cold To Go Tumbler – 16oz

I also recommend having a reusable water cup to keep in your house, or at your desk at work, at all times. I first purchased this tumbler because it is insulated and thus doesn’t sweat as much in the humidity. It soon transitioned into my everyday cup. I love that it is 16oz, because my goal is to drink four bottles per day to get in 8 cups of water. There is also something about drinking out of a straw – I drink a lot more than I otherwise would! This tumbler is also dishwasher safe, which is a huge plus.

Camelbak Eddy Water Bottle

If you’re on the go all the time, I recommend getting a Camelbak because it is spill proof and can easily be toted around in a backpack or handbag. I am not currently using a Camelbak, but I did in college, and it came with me to classes, the cafeteria, and everywhere else I went on campus. This really comes in handy while traveling, too.

Hydrate Planner Stickers

Last but not least, I recommend tracking your water intake daily. There are apps for this, but I prefer to tangibly put it in my Erin Condren Life Planner with a sticker from Oh, Hello Stationery Co. [use code POLISH15 to save 15% off your order!] Once you get into the habit of tracking your water, it becomes a normal part of your schedule!

All in all, I hope you found this post helpful if you struggle with drinking enough water. I am still not perfect when it comes to drinking at least eight cups of water daily, but I work towards that goal and try not to get discouraged if I don’t quite reach it. If you start to put more effort into the amount of water you’re drinking, it will become a regular part of your life. Take it from a former water-snubber – you’ll feel so much better when you learn to love water!

Do you have any tips for staying hydrated? Share them in the comments!

This post includes affiliate links. All opinions are my own. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.