Drinking water is an art that should be taken care for a healthy and wholesome well-being. Human bodies require water for metabolic activity, strong immunity, weight-loss and for cellular function. According to Ayurveda, it helps in cooling and balancing Pitta dosha, promotes digestion, supports Kapha and also counteracts the dryness of Vata dosha.
With the significance of drinking water reminded to us on a regular basis, it is important to drink water in its right way at the right time. It is recommended to drink 8 cups (64 ounces) to 12 cups (96 ounces) of water a day, though 8 is considered as an ideal quantity for most of the people.
Here are the 6 ways of drinking water, according to Ayurveda:
- Sit and drink
Just like we sit and eat, it is important to sit while drinking water. The water you drink while standing goes to the stomach with force and wouldn’t quench thirst. It is advised to sit and drink water as it gradually goes to your stomach and helps in replenishing every organ with nutrients.
- Take small sips, not full-glass chugs
We often tend to chug down water in large gulps, sometimes choking us. In Ayurveda, it is recommended to drink water in small sips, swallow it and then take a breath before continuing the process. It would also help in reducing the stress on heart and gives the body more time to absorb it in.
- Drink warm water
It is always advised to drink warm water or water in room temperature throughout the day. Avoid drinking cold and iced water as it would douse the digestive fire, hindering proper digestion process to create ama. Drinking warm water helps in flushing out the toxins and keep the digestive system functioning and in track.
- Sip only a small amount pre and post meals
Drink only a small amount of water along with your meals or after meals. The preferred ratio of food and water in stomach is 50% of food, 25% water and the remaining 25% empty for digestive juices and process. Drinking too much of water while eating will fill your belly leaving insufficient space for digestive actions.
- Drink water when thirsty
Thirst is a natural indication given by your body when it requires water for functioning. Therefore, it is always important to drink water whenever required or thirsty else it would lead to dehydration and other problems like headache, tiredness and so on.
- Drink 2-3 litres of water
The amount of water required per day for each person would depend on the activity level of that person. But it is advised to drink at least 8 glasses of water or about 3 litres everyday to replenish the lost water content in the body and to make it hydrated.
Drinking water in the right aforesaid ways will help you with the below health benefits:
- Promote weight-loss and remove by-products of fat to keep you fresh and healthy.
- Curb hunger at odd times of the day thereby preventing overeating.
- Prevent dehydration that slows down bodily functions and metabolism.
- Energise your muscles while exercising.
- Prevents constipation and maintain the balance of body fluids.