You’re busy juggling a million things—kids, work, home, and everything in between. But let’s not forget to talk about one of the simplest self-care habits: drinking enough water.
If you’re tired as a mom and wife, you might be amazed at the simple power of hydration!
Why Hydration Matters
We’ve all heard that we should drink more water, but why is it so important? Staying hydrated isn’t just about quenching your thirst; it’s about keeping your body functioning at its best. Water helps with digestion, keeps your skin looking fresh, and even boosts your energy levels.
And let’s be real, what mom doesn’t need more energy these days?
How Much Water Do Women Really Need?
You’ve probably heard the classic “eight glasses a day” rule, but the truth is, hydration needs vary from person to person. A general guideline is to aim for about 11.5 cups (92 ounces) of water a day for women. But before you start chugging, remember that your daily intake includes water from all beverages and foods you consume, not just plain water.
What About Pregnant and Nursing Moms?
If you’re pregnant or nursing, your water needs go up. Pregnant women should aim for 8 to 12 cups, or upwards of 96 ounces, of water daily, while nursing moms might need around 16 cups (128 ounces) to stay properly hydrated. Your body is doing some incredible work growing and feeding a tiny human, so give it the extra hydration it needs.
Quick Tips to Stay Hydrated
- Start Your Day with Water: Keep a glass of water by your bed and drink it first thing in the morning.
- Carry a Water Bottle: Make it a habit to take a sip whenever you can.
- Infuse with Flavor: If plain water isn’t your thing, try adding a splash of lemon, cucumber, or mint for a little zest.
- Eat Water-Rich Foods: Foods like cucumbers, oranges, and watermelon can also help you stay hydrated.
- Listen to Your Body: Thirst is a sign that you’re already dehydrated, so try to drink regularly throughout the day.
In my journey to feel better during perimenopause, I’ve discovered all these amazing tips from my nurse and nutritionist in a hormone support program.
The way I stay on track is by filling a water-tracking water bottle. And while it looks intimidating, it’s been an amazing help to remind me about my water intake!
Additionally, when I feel like I need a little extra boost, I add my favorite electrolyte powder around mid-day.
When I don’t stay on track with my water intake, I feel soooo sluggish in the afternoons, and I fall into the bad habit of reaching for extra caffeine.
A Little Reminder
As with anything, too much of a good thing can be bad. So, while it’s important to stay hydrated, don’t go overboard. Listen to your body, and make adjustments based on your daily activities, climate, and personal needs.
Staying hydrated is a simple yet powerful form of self-care. If you’re looking to improve your overall well-being, start by assessing your hydration habits with my Self-Care Worksheet. It’s designed to help you identify areas where you might need more focus, including your water intake. Then, use my Self-Care Planner to build healthy hydration habits and other self-care practices that nourish your body and mind.
Remember, self-care starts with the basics, and staying hydrated is one of the easiest ways to take care of yourself every day. Let these tools support you in making self-care a natural part of your daily routine.
