What if I told you that something as simple as water—you drink it every day—could help you live a disease-free life well into your 90s or even 100s? It sounds hard to believe, right?
But here’s the truth: it’s not just about drinking water; it’s about drinking it the right way.
Ayurveda, the ancient Indian science of wellness, has always viewed water as medicine. However, its benefits only work if you know how to drink it properly, when to drink it, and how much to drink.
In this guide, I’ll outline five important rules that can change the way you hydrate and possibly improve your health.
- How Should You Drink Water?
Always sip water slowly; never rush it.
Hold the water in your mouth for 2–3 seconds so it mixes with saliva before swallowing.
Sit down while drinking water; don’t stand.
Avoid plastic bottles. Use copper, stainless steel, or glass bottles instead.
Why? Because drinking water too quickly stresses your kidneys and weakens digestion.
- How Much Water Is Enough?
The average adult needs 2.5–3 liters of water a day, roughly 8–12 glasses.
If you eat more fruits or drink fresh juices, 2 liters might be enough.
Overhydrating (5+ liters daily) can be harmful; it dilutes sodium levels and affects your body.
Quick Check: Look at your urine color.
Pale yellow means you’re well-hydrated.
Dark yellow is a sign of dehydration.
- When Should You Drink (and When Not To)?
Best times to drink water:
First thing in the morning: 2 glasses of warm water to detox and boost metabolism.
Before and after a shower: 1 glass each; this helps regulate blood pressure.
1–2 hours before bedtime: a small amount supports hydration and heart health.
Avoid drinking water:
Immediately after meals, as it weakens digestion.
Right after eating fruits, which can cause bloating.
Directly after exercise or sun exposure; let your body cool down first.
- What’s the Best Way and Container to Drink Water?
Choose room-temperature or slightly warm water.
Ice-cold water can weaken digestion and harm your joints.
In summer, use earthen clay pots for natural cooling; avoid them in the rainy season.
Never drink from plastic bottles that have been left in the sun; they can be harmful.
- Special Rules for Different Health Conditions
High Blood Pressure and Heart Patients: Drink warm water in the morning and 1 glass before and after a shower.
Constipation and Piles: Two glasses of warm water on an empty stomach.
Kidney Stones: 3–3.5 liters daily, always in small sips.
Weight Loss: Warm water first thing in the morning and sip regularly throughout the day.
Final Thoughts
Water isn’t just something to quench your thirst. It’s one of the cheapest medicines on Earth.
But here’s the catch—the wrong way of drinking water can slowly lead to disease, while the right way can help you stay healthy for a lifetime.
So here’s a challenge for you: starting today, promise yourself to follow these rules. Your future self will appreciate it.
Leave a comment below: “From today, I’ll drink water the right way.”
If you found this useful, share it with a friend. Let’s spread real health knowledge, not just trendy diets or pricey supplements.
Stay hydrated. Stay healthy. Stay happy.