The key to a happy, healthy lifestyle? Hydration!

It might come as a surprise, but getting enough water allows you to think more clearly, prevents infections, helps you sleep better, and promotes digestion  (to name just a few of the benefits).

On the flip side, if you’re not drinking enough water on a regular basis, the consequences can start to impact your quality of life. Moodiness, fatigue, brain fog, and weakened digestion are some of the most common side effects. Not ideal for a high achiever.

If any of those symptoms sound familiar, don’t worry-- it’s easy to improve them. All it takes is creating new, healthy hydration habits.

Here are some easy ways to stay hydrated all day, every day!

Habit #1: Carry a reusable water bottle

This may seem obvious, but once you start toting one around, you’ll never want to leave home without it. Thermoflask is our favorite for sipping ice-cold water all day long, whether you’re at work, at home, or on the go! And using your own water bottle means you can enhance your water with lemon, lime, cucumber, and any other flavors your heart desires.

Habit #2: Slow and steady wins the race

You don’t need to chug water multiple times a day to keep your body hydrated! Instead, focus on drinking a moderate amount consistently. By sipping throughout the day (instead of flooding your stomach all at once!), your body will be able to use the water much more effectively.

Habit #3: Eat hydrating foods

If plain water isn’t your favorite thing in the world, you can actually eat your way to hydration! Most raw fruits and veggies help in this department-- think watermelon, tomatoes, beans, oranges, strawberries, and celery. You can learn more about the specific benefits of different foods here.

Habit #4: Balance your other drinks

There’s nothing wrong with enjoying your morning coffee, or a cocktail at happy hour. The problem is, caffeine and alcohol have diuretic effects, so you can actually lose fluids from drinking them. Pair your coffee or alcoholic beverage of choice with a tall glass of water… every time! 

Habit #5: Download a habit tracker app

Why not leverage your smartphone for your health? The Water Reminder - Daily Tracker app is a great option, and is available for both iOS and Android.

The bottom line? Hydration matters because you matter. Once you make the simple switch to drinking plenty of water every day, you’ll notice the ripple effect of benefits in your overall health and well-being. When it comes to greater health and happiness, those are habits worth building!