How to Intake Water

An old Indian saying goes, "If there is water, there is life," and the Charak Samhita equates water to nectar. Water makes up up to 60% of the human body; it is essential to our existence and provides us with sustenance. It is one of the top five elements (Pancha Mahabhutas). Water represents movement and fluidity. It is crucial for several body functions, including hydration, nutrition, and toxin removal. Although drinking water is generally healthy, Ayurveda goes a step further and describes how one can get the most out of the simple liquid.

Different doshas and water:

Vata, Pitta, and Kapha are the three doshas upon which Ayurveda medicines are based. These doshas are thought to be in responsible for a person's overall physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. Thus, Ayurveda makes the following connections between the doshas and how a person should drink water based on thousands of years of traditions and scriptures. The effects of water on the three doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—are as follows.

Pitta dosha: The body's metabolism, digestion, and transformation are all attributed to the Pitta dosha (fire and water). People with the Pitta dosha have a variety of characteristics, like being hot, oily, light, sharp, etc. It is essential to calm and regulate the Pitta because it can become inflamed and lead to the production of extra stomach acid, heartburn, etc. Ayurveda advises drinking enough water throughout the day, ideally at room temperature, to maintain heat and digestive health.

Vata dosha: According to Ayurveda, the cool and dry Vata dosha (air and space) is related to the mind-body element. It controls all movements and bodily functions like breathing and blood circulation. People may have problems like constipation, poor digestion, weakness, etc. when there is a Vata imbalance. As a result, Ayurveda advises Vata dosha sufferers to drink water an hour after eating. Vata is cool, and heat promotes digestion, thus people must drink water after meals.

Kapha dosha: The lubrication of the mind and body as well as structure, weight and maintenance of body fluids are all attributed to the Kapha dosha (earth and water). It is heavy, smooth, cool, soft, slow, stable, and moist. Overeating is a tendency among those with the Kapha dosha. Ayurveda advises drinking water before to meals to lower the chances of overeating.

Six rules of drinking water the Ayurvedic way:

In order to experience and profit from drinking water and its medicinal and therapeutic health benefits, a person can follow some special tips and tricks that are mentioned in Ayurvedic scriptures, conventional medicine, and therapeutic practices. Here are some suggestions for water consumption the Ayurvedic way:

Timing your water intake: Ayurveda mentions Ushapana. Ushapana can be described as a morning ritual in which one drinks water first. The procedure is thought to naturally detox the body, remove toxins from the body, and aid in the eradication of illnesses. Ushapana, according to practitioners of traditional medicine, may also aid in boosting metabolism, preventing constipation, and reducing food intake in the morning.

In order to regulate aggravated doshas, it is necessary to limit water intake. Water consumption at the right times before and after meals is also very essential. To prevent excess food intake, for instance, Kapha dosha individuals should drink water prior to meals. Similar to this, Vata sufferers are recommended to drink water an hour after a meal to ensure that the body has enough heat energy for the food to be properly digested. Similar to this, Ayurveda advises Pitta dosha individuals to consume water at any time of the day to balance Agni (heat) and digestive health. Drinking water at the right time can aid in weight loss, detoxification, and improved digestion.

Sit and drink: Our health depends on the quality of water we consume and at what time. In a similar way, how we consume water is crucial. We overlook the reality that there is a proper way to drink water in our daily lives. According to Ayurveda, a person should only consume it while seated. The cause of it is that standing while drinking water may disturb the fluid equilibrium in our bodies and result in fluid accumulation. According to Ayurveda, sitting down causes the nervous system and muscles to relax, which enables the body to effectively absorb and digest nutrients and other liquids. Therefore, altering positions while drinking water can have a big positive impact on individuals.

Take small sips, do not chug: Sip, swallow, breathe, repeat. The speed and way in which one should consume water are additional considerations made by Ayurveda when discussing proper hydration. Ayurveda texts and experts advise against gulping down water all at once, instead advocating modest, frequent sips. Ayurveda specifically advises people with Pitta dosha to consume small sips of water while having meals to prevent its aggravation in order to control the Agni (heat) and digestive health.

The right temperature of water: The benefits of the water we consume are significantly influenced by its temperature. Drinking water that has been heated to a particular temperature may have therapeutic benefits on the person. Drinking water at normal temperature or when it is warm is advised by Ayurveda. Water that has been boiled has a stronger flavour and provides advantages that plain or ice-cold water cannot. As a result, Ayurveda advises against drinking ice-cold water since it disrupts the digestion process and extinguishes the fire. Although warm water improves weight loss, helps with digestion, and minimizes bloating. According to Ayurveda, those with a Kapha dosha tend to overeat. In these situations, drinking warm or hot water can be quite helpful because it makes you feel full and prevents fat from accumulating. Warm water has been shown in a 2016 study to help with better digestion, bowel movements, and gas expulsion.

Drink when your body needs it: There are numerous claims that one should consume at least 8 to 9 glasses of water each day, however this may not always be the true. It's important to think whether a person should consume water at regular intervals or only when they feel thirsty. According to Ayurveda, one should only drink water when they are thirsty. There is no set amount of water that everyone should consume because everyone is different. But normally for normal person 10 glass of water in summer is required (In Bharat Bhoomi).

Storing drinking water: In addition, Ayurvedic texts and traditional practices also offer insights into the right way of storing water we drink. Ayurveda suggests that the drinking water must be kept in a copper (Tamba) vessel as it can purify and positively charge the water with antioxidants and infuse anti-bacterial properties. Therefore, rather than placing drinking water in plastic bottles and stocking them in the fridge, a person can opt for a copper container(not in Summer). In summer pots use clay bottles, Pots(Ghara and Surahi) or Glass bottles. Best way to drink water is with hands(As per ved and Ayurveda)

Water is necessary for the survival and effective operation of every organ in the body. Both excess and lack of water can have a negative impact on our daily lives and pose serious health risks. We must therefore comprehend the value of drinking water and the fact that there is a method to enhance its use. Thus, the next time you see a glass of water, make sure to recognise its advantages and consume it correctly

Ingredients that can be added to make water more detoxifying

Lemon

1. Drinking a mixture of lemon with water helps to cleanse and alkalize the body. Add one thinly sliced lemon to a large pitcher, or squeeze fresh lemon juice into your glass. Drink it first thing in the morning, and wait about 30 minutes to have breakfast.

   Lemon water reduces inflammation, aids digestion, helps you lose weight, keeps your skin blemish-free, gives your immune system a boost, freshens your breath and fights viral infections.

   Mint

   Mint adds a touch of sweetness without the sugar to your water, and aids in digestion.

   Cucumber

   Adding a few slices of cucumber to your water makes for excellent rehydration. Moreover, it also contains anti-inflammatory properties.

   Ginger

   It is needless to say that ginger has quite a lot of health benefits. This helps cleanse out your system, aids in digestion, and settles your stomach. Add a few thin slices or grate a tiny piece into your water and taste before adding more as necessary.

   Hydrate your body properly, add mindfulness to your drinking and eating habits, and consider it a sacred act. Then, and only then, will you start to heal the physical body.

   Here are some tips on how to effectively intake water to stay hydrated:

   • General Guidelines: Aim for about 8-10 glasses (2-2.5 liters) of water per day.

   • Individual Needs: Adjust based on your weight, activity level, and climate. For instance, more active individuals or those in hot climates may need more.

   • Morning Hydration: Drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to kickstart your metabolism and rehydrate after a night's sleep.

   • Pre-Meal Hydration: Drinking a glass of water before meals can aid digestion and help control appetite.

   • Convenience: Keep a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day to remind yourself to drink regularly.

   • Track Intake: Use a bottle with measurements to track how much you've drunk.

   • Alarms and Apps: Use phone alarms or hydration apps to remind you to drink water at regular intervals.

   • Flavor It: Add slices of fruits (lemon, lime, orange), herbs (mint, basil), or vegetables (cucumber) to make drinking water more enjoyable.

   • Hydrating Foods: Include fruits and vegetables with high water content in your diet, such as watermelon, cucumbers, oranges, strawberries, and celery.

   • Check Hydration Levels: Light yellow or clear urine typically indicates good hydration, while dark yellow urine suggests you need to drink more water.

   • Stay Hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after physical activity to replace fluids lost through sweat.

   • Electrolyte Balance: For intense workouts, consider electrolyte drinks to replenish lost salts and minerals.

   • Thirst Cues: Drink water when you feel thirsty. Thirst is your body's way of signaling that it needs fluids.

   • Limit Dehydrating Drinks: Caffeine and alcohol can be dehydrating, so balance them with extra water intake.

   • Hot Weather: Increase water intake during hot weather or if you spend a lot of time outdoors.

   • High Activity Levels: Drink more water when engaging in strenuous activities or exercising.

   Here are some ways water can be beneficial for different diseases and health issues:

   Kidney stones: Drinking plenty of water dilutes substances in urine that lead to kidney stones, reducing risk and helping to flush out existing stones.

   Urinary tract infections (UTIs): Increased water intake raises urine output, flushing bacteria from the urinary tract and reducing infection risk.

   Constipation: Water softens stools, making them easier to pass, and aids in digestion by dissolving fats and soluble fiber.

   Weight management: Drinking water before meals can control appetite, reduce calorie intake, and slightly boost metabolism.

   Headaches: Dehydration often triggers headaches and migraines; staying hydrated can prevent and alleviate symptoms.

   Skin health: Adequate hydration keeps skin elastic and reduces dryness and wrinkles, while flushing out toxins can reduce acne.

   Joint and muscle health: Water maintains cartilage and joint health, preventing pain and reducing the risk of muscle cramps and strains.

   Blood pressure regulation: Proper hydration helps maintain blood volume, essential for normal blood pressure levels.

   Cardiovascular health: Staying hydrated reduces heart strain by improving blood circulation and aiding efficient heart function.

   Diabetes management: Water helps dilute glucose levels in the bloodstream, supporting blood sugar control and kidney function.

   Immune system support: Hydration flushes out toxins and supports the lymphatic system, which is crucial for immune function.

   Digestive disorders: Drinking water helps dilute stomach acid, reducing acid reflux and GERD symptoms, and aids in regular bowel movements.

   Respiratory health: Adequate hydration maintains mucous membrane moisture, essential for trapping and clearing pathogens.

   Chronic diseases: Proper hydration supports overall health, improving circulation, nutrient absorption, and waste removal.

Water holds immense significance in Vedic texts and Puranas, reflecting its vital role in sustaining life, purifying the body and soul, and facilitating spiritual practices.

• In the Rigveda, water (Apas) is described as a fundamental element of creation, essential for sustaining life.

• The Rigveda (10.9.1) states that water is the source of all existence.

• Water is used in various purification rituals (Shuddhi) to cleanse the body and mind.

• The use of water in rituals symbolizes the removal of impurities and the restoration of purity.

• Rivers like the Ganges (Ganga), Yamuna, and Saraswati are revered as goddesses and hold significant spiritual importance.

• Bathing in these rivers is believed to wash away sins and purify the soul.

• Vedic hymns often include prayers to water deities, seeking blessings for health, wealth, and prosperity.

• Water is also used as an offering in various ceremonies and Yajnas (sacrificial rituals).

• In Puranic cosmology, water is described as one of the five elements (Panchamahabhuta) that constitute the universe.

• Water plays a crucial role in the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction.

• The Puranas emphasize the importance of holy pilgrimages (Tirtha Yatras) to rivers, lakes, and other water bodies.

• Places like Prayagraj (confluence of Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati) are considered highly auspicious.

• Various deities are associated with water, such as Varuna (god of oceans), Ganga (goddess of the Ganges), and Saraswati (goddess of the river Saraswati).

• These deities are worshipped for their divine qualities and blessings.

• Water is integral to numerous spiritual practices, including Abhisheka (ritual bathing of deities), Snana (ritual bathing of devotees), and offering water during Puja (worship rituals).

• These practices symbolize spiritual cleansing and renewal.

• Water symbolizes life, growth, and nourishment.

• It is essential for sustaining all forms of life and is revered as a life-giver in spiritual contexts.

• Water is a universal symbol of purity.

• It is used to cleanse both physical impurities and spiritual impurities, embodying the concept of spiritual rebirth and renewal.

• The flowing nature of water represents the continuous flow of life and the dynamic nature of the universe.

• It symbolizes adaptability, flexibility, and the ability to overcome obstacles.

• Water's importance in Vedic texts and Puranas is profound, encompassing physical, spiritual, and metaphysical dimensions.

• Water is revered not only for its life-sustaining properties but also for its purifying and transformative powers.

• From ritualistic uses to symbolic meanings, water remains a cornerstone of spiritual practice and reverence in these ancient scriptures.

Here are some Shlokas and Mantras related to water from the Vedas and other ancient texts:

Rigveda 10.9.1

This verse from the Rigveda praises the purifying power of water.

Shloka:

आपो हि ष्ठा मयोभुवस्ता न ऊर्जे दधातन |महे रणाय चक्षसे ||

Translation:"Waters are indeed, nectar-giving; they bring energy and sustain us.They have medicinal properties and are purifiers."

Yajurveda 36.12

This verse emphasizes the sanctity and purifying power of water.

Shloka:

आपो वः स्था मयोभुवः |ता न ऊर्जे दधातन |महेरणाय चक्षसे ||

Translation:"O Waters, you are the ones who give us pleasure.Grant us the strength to see great delight."

Varuna Mantra

This mantra is dedicated to Varuna, the Vedic god of water and the oceans.

Mantra:

ॐ आप्योऽस्मान्तु तेर्जसे |वरुणस्य व्रतस्य च |देवा मित्रस्य राज्ञः ||

Translation:"May the waters bless us with vigor and strength,under the laws of Varuna and the rule of the divine king Mitra.

Ganga Stotra

A prayer dedicated to the sacred river Ganga, invoking her purifying essence.

Shloka

पापानां पवनं पावनं |धर्माणां क्षेमकारिणीम् |गङ्गां करुणामयीं देवीं |नमामि हरितालिनीम् ||

Translation:"I bow to the merciful Goddess Ganga, who is the purifier of sins,the provider of happiness, and the embodiment of compassion."

Mantra for Offering Mantra

A mantra commonly recited during rituals when offering water to deities.

Mantra:

ॐ अपवित्रः पवित्रो वा सर्वावस्थांगतोऽपि वा |यः स्मरेत् पुण्डरीकाक्षं स बाह्याभ्यन्तरः शुचिः ||

Translation:"Om, whether impure or pure, in whatever state one may be,if one remembers the lotus-eyed (Lord Vishnu), they become clean both outwardly and inwardly."

These Shlokas and Mantras highlight the reverence for water in Hindu rituals and beliefs, emphasizing its purifying, sustaining, and life-giving properties.