Drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and proper bodily function. However, how we drink water can also impact our health. In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine, there is a recommended way of drinking water that can help maximize its benefits. By following these Ayurvedic tips for drinking water, you can ensure that you are hydrating your body in a way that promotes good health and proper digestion.
Benefits of Drinking Water the Ayurveda Way
Improved Digestion: Ayurveda recommends drinking water at room temperature or slightly warmer and sipping it slowly to help improve digestion. Drinking cold water can disrupt the natural balance of the body and impair digestion. On the other hand, warm water can help stimulate the digestive fire and promote better absorption of nutrients.
Enhanced Mental Clarity: Drinking water first thing in the morning can help jumpstart your metabolism and flush out toxins from your body, leading to increased alertness and brain function. According to Ayurveda, drinking water on an empty stomach can also help balance the doshas (energies) in the body, promoting overall health and well-being.
Reduced Risk of Indigestion and Choking: Sipping water slowly and avoiding gulping it down quickly can help prevent indigestion and reduce the risk of choking. Drinking water in a seated position can also allow the body to properly absorb it, ensuring that you are getting the most benefits from your hydration.
Better Absorption: Drinking water in a seated position can allow the body to properly absorb it. Standing or walking while drinking water can cause the water to flow too quickly through the body and impair digestion. By taking the time to sit and drink water, you can ensure that your body is properly absorbing the water and the nutrients it contains.
6 Tips for Drinking Water The Ayurveda Way
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Drink Water First Thing in the Morning: According to Ayurveda, drinking water first thing in the morning can help jumpstart your metabolism and flush out toxins from your body. It can also help boost brain function and increase alertness.
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Drink Water at Room Temperature: In Ayurveda, it is recommended to drink water at room temperature or slightly warmer. Drinking warm water can help improve digestion, boost metabolism, and promote detoxification.
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Sip, Don’t Chug: When drinking water, take small sips and avoid gulping it down quickly. This can help prevent indigestion and reduce the risk of choking. Sipping water slowly also allows it to be absorbed by the body more effectively.
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Drink Water in a Seated Position: Drinking water while standing or walking can cause the water to flow too quickly through the body and impair digestion. Ayurveda recommends drinking water in a seated position to allow the body to properly absorb it.
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Drink Herbal Tea or Hot Water During Meals: Drinking water during meals can dilute stomach acid and impair digestion. However, drinking a small amount of hot water or herbal tea can actually aid digestion. Cumin, coriander, and fennel (CCF) tea is a popular Ayurvedic blend that can be consumed during meals to promote digestion. If you don’t have CCF tea on hand, sipping on hot water can also help stimulate digestion. Just be sure to avoid cold water or chilled beverages during meals, as they can interfere with digestion.
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Drink Water When You’re Thirsty: Ayurveda recommends drinking water when you are thirsty rather than forcing yourself to drink a specific amount of water. Pay attention to your body’s signals and drink water when you feel thirsty.
Conclusion
By following these Ayurvedic tips for drinking water, you can support your overall well-being and enjoy the many benefits of proper hydration. Remember, drinking water is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It is important to listen to your body’s needs and adjust accordingly. Some people may require more or less water depending on their individual needs.
In addition to drinking water the Ayurvedic way, it is also important to pay attention to the quality of the water you are drinking. Tap water may contain contaminants such as chlorine, fluoride, and heavy metals. Investing in a high-quality water filtration system or drinking spring water can help ensure that you are drinking clean, pure water.
Incorporating these Ayurvedic tips into your daily routine can help promote good health and proper digestion. Remember to drink water first thing in the morning, sip it slowly, and drink it in a seated position. You can also try incorporating herbal tea or hot water into your meals, and drinking water when you’re thirsty. By taking these small steps, you can help optimize your body’s hydration and support overall health and wellness.
References:
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Sharma, H., & Clark, C. (2014). Contemporary Ayurveda: medicine and research in Maharishi Ayur-Veda. Routledge.
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Tiwari, M. (2017). Ayurveda: Secrets of healing. Lotus Press.
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Chopra, D., & Simon, D. (2004). The seven spiritual laws of yoga: A practical guide to healing body, mind, and spirit. John Wiley & Sons.
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Kothari, S., & Sharma, R. (2018). Health benefits of drinking water in the morning. International Journal of Research in Pharmaceutical Sciences, 9(4), 1184-1187.
If you are interested in learning what incorporating elements of an Ayurvedic lifestyle might do for you, then schedule a free 20 minute consultation with Vaidya Archana by clicking the book now button or calling our office at 925-575-8700.
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