Hydration 101: The Importance Of Water In Your Work Routine

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All work and no play make Jack dull, right? But did you know that work, plus play, minus a drink, will still leave Jack grumpy, demotivated, and probably sick?

Water is the life-giving fluid that you need to keep going while at work. Scientific studies have shown that regular hydration is crucial for our daily wellness and affects workplace productivity. Proper hydration is one of the most crucial, but seldom-mentioned healthy habits to adopt. It boosts our efficiency, mood, enthusiasm, and can keep our skin looking fresh. Here are more reasons scientists give for incorporating good hydration into your work routine.

Water boosts energy levels

There are several reasons to have a branded bottled water by your side while at work – and one of those is that water directly influences your muscle energy levels.

Regular hydration ensures that cells in your body maintain a balance of fluids and electrolytes, thereby avoiding fatigue. On the contrary, if you don’t take in enough water, cells in your body will shrivel. Your tissues and organs will not work as well as when they are hydrated resulting in chronic fatigue.

It enhances brain functioning

Your brain cells are some of the most crucial cells that should maintain optimum fluid levels. According to neuroscientists, our brains require proper hydration to function properly. Regular water intake ensures that your brain operates at the optimum level. This is crucial for those who spend most of their time behind the desk and other jobs that require insightful thinking. On the other hand, low water levels in your brain result in inattention, reduced alertness, slower reaction times, and sleepiness.

Do you want to be more alert and energized? Set up a reminder for water breaks in your work schedule.

Reduces stress levels

When we take sufficient water, our bodies are happier. The thyroid works well and maintains healthy levels of the stress-inducing hormone – cortisol. Yes, cortisol is crucial to your functioning, but it must be within a healthy range, and hydration helps ensure it is so. On the other hand, too much stress will reduce your productivity and affect your ability to collaborate and create.

Keeps your skin bright and hydrated

People in the cosmetics and beauty industry have known this fact for eons, proper hydration is the key to maintaining a fresh glow. Without water, our skins dry up fast, lose elasticity and can appear more wrinkled. If you want to maintain a youthful and vibrant look, hydrate while at work.

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Hydration boosts your mood

What happens when you are energized for work, your brain is firing on all cylinders, you have lower stress levels, and your skin is looking fresh and hydrated? Well, your mood, self-confidence, and self-esteem will soar!

No task will be too difficult to perform. You will not be scared to approach colleagues or prospects and work. A happier person is better for the workplace, with a study from the University of Oxford claiming that workers are, in fact, 13% more productive when happy.

Better immunity (fewer sick days)

Without a doubt, water is essential to maintain optimal body functions. Plus, sufficient water intake helps to reduce the risk of heart disease, chronic headaches, and other ailments. But that’s not all. A great attitude, a nutritious diet, and plenty of water in your work routine can also keep your immune system working tremendously. It reduces the chances of falling ill and results in fewer sick days.

Tips for creating a workplace hydrating routine

Since there are so many benefits of hydrating, it is only fair to help you include it in your work routine. The following tips will help you incorporate water into your work routine:

• Choose reputable brands or water beverages that you enjoy. Chances are, the more you like the taste, the more you drink. But don’t forget to check the nutritional qualities of what you take and ensure you’re not taking in extra sugar or preservatives.
• If you’re not a fan of water, try adding sliced fruit to your beverage, or drinking organic flavored water.
• Increase the portion of fruits and vegetables in your meals. They contain extra fluids that boost your water intake.
• Always have a handy bottle of water with you. Have one at your desk and in your bag.

A final word on the importance of water in your work routine

We spend one-third (or more) of our lives at work. If we can make hydration a regular part of our work routine, it’s crystal clear that our health and productivity will get a boost!