Are you hydrated?

About a month ago I was talking to a fellow massage therapist and he was sharing information he had read in a book titled “Quench”.  A discussion began after I had mentioned that I was thinking I might be dehydrated, even though I drink at least a gallon of water a day, actually I might be diluted, but I digress.

A few points stood out that truly resonated with me, and after reading its reviews, I decided it was something I needed to explore further. It was informative and provided me answers to some of my issues. There were takeaways that I felt ready to include in my regular routine. This book isn’t just a sit down and read, then shelve, kind of book. It’s more of a “sit down, highlight, and take notes” kind of book. It’s a great wealth of data and information such as recipes.

Here are my top 4 takeaways from the book “Quench” By Dana Cohen, MD and Gina Bria:

Oil and water do mix – The water we take in needs to break through our cell’s membrane in order for us to actually hydrate that cell. That membrane is made out of oil. If we are not consuming enough healthy fats the water will not be able to replenish our cells. So, all those bathroom breaks might be due to the fact that you are avoiding fats!

Gel water – If you truly want hydration it will take more than those 8 glasses a day. Gel water, aka living water, is essential to your hydration. Think the Sun and Plants, or hydration with an electrical charge. By simply adding a tablespoon of Chia seeds to your water in the morning with a squirt of lemon or adding a green smoothie to your day with cucumber, kale or spinach in it, Or a fantastic bone broth recipe (thereby getting true gel: collagen) you super-charge your body’s hydration.

Time to Twist – Micromovement throughout your day is another key factor to hydration. Just because you hit the gym doesn’t mean you are off the hook for this one. Think of it as a little stop in your day to think and then move. These little movements, like turning your neck to look behind you, are important for keeping your joints lubricated and helping your body eliminate waste. It’s not all about keeping it in but cycling the bad stuff out.

Love me some Fascia – It’s our body’s superhighway of connection. Fascia covers everything from our muscle to organs to bones. Keeping hydrated is key to increasing flexibility and even healing faster after a sprained ankle. One way to help the fascia is dry skin brushing.

Side note: From a massage therapist’s point of view, moving the fascia is key in a good massage. So do your massage therapist and yourself a favor, stay hydrated. You will get more from your massage, because your therapist can do more for your skin and muscle.

Another piece of good information that I feel was helpful in the book was about things to avoid, like foods that will absorb water and not in a good way. Think of a piece of bread in a cup of water, absorbing it.  Now if you are 8 glasses of water a day gal, or guy, don’t just stop, instead add a few of the hydration tips above to it and let your thirst, dry skin, or tight fascia thank you.