Hydration Routine: Tips to drink more water and stay hydrated

Staying hydrated is essential for our health and well-being, but the question is “How can we stay hydrated throughout the day?”. With our busy schedules and daily distractions, it's easy to forget to prioritise this fundamental need. However, incorporating hydration into our daily routines doesn't have to be complicated. Combining simple strategies and mindful habits, we can effortlessly increase our water intake and reap the numerous benefits of optimal hydration.

We’ve pulled together an easy-to-follow, daily hydration routine to help keep you hydrated without disrupting your daily flow. 

Morning - Start Your Day Right 

Here's a breakdown of why starting your day with water is a great idea: 

• Wake-Up Call for Your Body: After 7-8 hours of sleep, you’ll wake up feeling thirsty. A glass of water first thing in the morning replenishes those fluids, rehydrates your cells, and kickstarts your metabolism, setting you up for a more energised day. You might want to consider adding electrolytes to add flavour and help your body replenish liquids after 7-8 hours without them. 

• Pair it with your breakfast: Don't just stop at your morning coffee or tea. Enjoy your breakfast with a glass of water alongside it. This simple pairing makes it easy to get extra hydration without thinking about it.  

• Hydration On-the-Go: Before you head out the door, fill up a reusable water bottle, or grab a bottle of Buxton water and take it with you. It's a visual reminder to keep sipping throughout the day, whether you're staying hydrated while commuting around town, or hydrating while hitting the gym. Having water readily available makes it much easier to stay hydrated and keep you focused for the afternoon. 

Mid-Morning - Keep the Momentum Going 

Here are some tips to keep the hydration going strong throughout your morning: 

• Keep Your Water Close: Make hydration a breeze by keeping a full water bottle within arm's reach at your desk, in your bag, or wherever you spend your morning hours. When it's right in front of you, you're much more likely to take sips throughout the morning.  

• Set Reminders: We all get busy and distracted, especially during the morning rush. If you tend to forget about drinking water, set a reminder or alarm on your phone to gently nudge you to take water breaks. There are apps that are specifically designed to track water intake, too. 

• Add Flavour: Add slices of lemon, cucumber, fresh mint, or even berries to your water bottle for a refreshing and flavourful boost. Experiment with different combinations to find your favourites! 

• Set a Goal: Aim to drink another 250-300ml of water before lunch. It's a manageable amount that will help you stay on track with your hydration goals and help maintain your concentration right up to lunchtime! Consider it a mini victory on your way to a more hydrated day. 

Lunchtime - Hydrate with Your Meal 

As you enjoy your lunch, make sure water is an integral part of your mealtime ritual. By making water a consistent part of your lunchtime routine, you reinforce this habit and ensure your body stays adequately hydrated throughout the day. 

Afternoon - Stay Energised and Focused 

Got that familiar afternoon drag? Before you reach for a cup of coffee or a snack, consider a simpler solution: water. Staying adequately hydrated throughout the day plays a crucial role in helping you stay energised and focused. 

Therefore, make it a habit to keep a water bottle within reach throughout the afternoon and take regular water breaks. These breaks not only provide an opportunity to hydrate but also serve as a chance to stretch, move around, and give your mind a break from work or other tasks.  

Evening - Wind Down with Water 

As your day winds down and you transition into evening mode, don't neglect your hydration needs. Incorporating water into your evening routine can help maintain fluid balance and prepare your body for a restful night's sleep. Enjoy a glass of water before dinner and have another glass after dinner.  

However, you should try to minimise your water intake in the hours leading up to bedtime to reduce nighttime bathroom trips. While staying hydrated is essential, excessive fluid consumption close to bedtime can disrupt sleep and lead to frequent awakenings. Find a balance that works for you, ensuring you're hydrated throughout the day while allowing for a peaceful and uninterrupted night's sleep. 

Remember, consistency is key, so make water a natural part of your day, not a chore to be checked off a list. Adjust the routine to fit your lifestyle, experiment with flavours, and find what works best for you. 

For more inspiration and hydration tips, be sure to explore other Buxton articles, where you'll find a wealth of information and resources to support your hydration journey.  

*Water helps with hydration and contributes to the maintenance of normal physical and cognitive functions. At least 2L of water, from all sources, should be consumed per day.