According to Ayurveda, water is one of the five elements that make up the universe. It symbolizes Soma, the nourishing and cooling quality associated with lunar energy. It aids digestion, cools and balances Pitta dosha, supports Kapha and counteracts dryness of Vata.
When urine leaves the body, it nourishes, lubricates and detoxifies. However, drinking water in the wrong way or in excessive amounts can be harmful for the body and mind. As a result, Ayurveda suggests following certain rules and tips to drink water in a manner suitable for your body type, age, lifestyle and health condition.
Thirst is a natural instinct that signals your body that it needs water. You should not ignore or suppress your thirst, but you should also avoid drinking water excessively or compulsively. The amount of water you need depends on several factors, including your body type, diet, activity level, weather, stress levels, and herbal supplements.
Urine, which should be clear and brown in color, is a good indicator of your hydration levels. If the water is dark yellow then you should drink more water. The second clue is the condition of your lips. If they are dry, your body is probably dehydrated.
One should drink water in small sips throughout the day.
Drinking large amounts of water at once can dilute your digestive juices and cause poor digestion, so sip, swallow and rebreathe. Drinking small amounts of water throughout the day keeps your body hydrated and your channels clean. It also keeps away water retention and swelling.
Drink warm or room temperature water
Drinking cold or cool water, especially before, during, or after meals, can suppress your digestive fire, resulting in indigestion, gas, bloating, pain, and toxins. On the other hand, hot or lukewarm water stimulates your digestive fire and aids in the digestion and absorption of food. It also helps to calm and relax your nerves and muscles.
Drink boiled or herbal water
Ayurveda recommends boiling water for different amounts of time, depending on the season and your body type, to create a therapeutic water bath. Boiling water removes impurities, improves clarity and sharpness and makes it easier to absorb. After boiling, you can add spices or herbs like ginger, cardamom, fennel, mint, basil, lemon, honey etc. to the water to improve the taste and health benefits. These help balance your doshas, improve digestion, boost immunity, detoxify your body and calm your mind.
Drink water according to your body type and health condition
Hot Pitta types are generally more thirsty than watery Kapha types. Vata type people often suffer from constipation or have dry skin, so they should drink more water. However, the quality and quantity of water you drink should suit your body type and health condition.
For example, if you have fever, swelling, infection, acidity, diarrhea or bleeding, you should drink more water to stay cool and flush out toxins. If you have a cold, cough, congestion, edema, obesity or sluggish digestion, drink warm water with less water or spices to stimulate and clear your channels.
Ayurvedic drinking water rules and tips can help you balance your doshas, aid your digestion, purify your body and mind, and prevent many diseases.