Most of us know the importance of drinking water throughout the day. The trouble is, many of us don't manage to get around to it!

Not drinking water throughout the day leads to chronic dehydration, something that can negatively impact our wellness and, in some cases, lead to serious health outcomes.

Symptoms of Dehydration

If you have frequent headaches (with or without brain fog), you may be suffering from chronic dehydration. Constipation, fatigue, confusion, dizziness, dry mouth, or dark-colored urine are other symptoms that the body is craving more fluids.

Dehydration can have a negative impact on your day-to-day life. While you may still be able to function, you might not be at your best while working, exercising, engaging in hobbies, or spending time alone or with others.

Dangers of Dehydration

If you're still not convinced, be aware that a consistent lack of water may lead to serious, even deadly, medical conditions. These include:

• Heat exhaustion or heatstroke

• Seizures

• Kidney disease

• Urinary tract infections

• Low blood volume shock (hypovolemic shock)

Some symptoms of dehydration, such as dizziness and fatigue, can also lead to serious accidents due to your being tired and distracted.

Tips for Staying Hydrated

Staying hydrated is a priority for all of us. The recommended amount of water that people should consume each day varies. We have heard for years that experts advise eight to 10 8-ounce glasses of water per day, but now the rule of thumb seems to be half our body weight in ounces per day (and increased during excessive sweating or strenuous exercise).

Here are some ideas for making hydration a part of your daily schedule:

You already have a morning routine, so work a glass of water into it. Keep some water next to your bed and hydrate as soon as you wake up.

If you don't already have one, purchase a glass water bottle (familiarize yourself with the ounce capacity). Fill it up (with filtered water) first thing in the morning and make it a priority to sip from it all day long.

Eat large quantities of fruits and vegetables. While your primary source of hydration should come from water, you can also get some hydration from other beverages and foods. Fruits and veggies naturally contain water, which contributes to hydration, helping you to feel full and amazing.

If you don't like the taste of plain water, add a slice of lemon, orange, or lime to your glass. Another option is to add a sprig of fresh herbs (mint or rosemary are quite lovely!).

Sparkling water is fun to add to the mix (and is a great alternative if you are trying to wean yourself off soda!).

Water Quality Is Important

Tap water quality can vary significantly between geographical areas. In addition, there is strong evidence that what governments consider to be "acceptable" levels of heavy metals and other contaminants in water aren't always in line with the latest science.

Concerns about water quality is why my office offers Zero Water, water filtered through one of the most powerful consumer water filters available. In addition to Zero Water, we add shungite and minerals to deliver superior flavor and other health benefits.

Water as a Wellness Tool

Water is a life-giving, cleansing substance. As you develop your hydration practice, consider affirmation practice as you wash with and drink water. Visualize a cleansing light during your shower or while drinking your first glass of the day.

You can also affirm yourself for taking the time to drink clean, healthy water. As you hydrate, be grateful, to yourself, for ensuring your own wellness.