Hydrated, Healthy, and Thriving: Why Water (and Electrolytes) Matter More Than You Think

I used to think drinking water was just about quenching thirst. I'd carry a water bottle around, take a few sips here and there, and call it good. But when I truly committed to hydrating with intention, my energy shifted. My focus sharpened. My workouts improved. And honestly? My mood lifted too.

Proper hydration isn’t just a wellness buzzword—it’s a foundational piece of how you feel every single day.

How Much Water Do You Actually Need?

Let’s start with the basics. A general rule of thumb is to aim for half your body weight in ounces of water per day. For example: If you weigh 160 lbs, aim for about 80 oz of water.

This can vary depending on your activity level, the weather, your diet, and even your stress load. But most people are chronically under-hydrated—especially if you’re drinking caffeine, working out, or eating a lot of processed foods.

And here’s where things get interesting…

Why Electrolytes Matter

Water is only part of the story. Your body also needs electrolytes—like sodium, potassium, and magnesium—to actually use that water properly. Without enough electrolytes, your water intake can feel like it’s going right through you. Because it kind of is.

Electrolytes:

• Help your muscles contract (including your heart!)

• Keep your nervous system functioning

• Support energy production

• Maintain fluid balance in and around your cells

  
  

When you sweat, you lose electrolytes—especially sodium. And this is where people get confused.

Salt vs. Sodium: What’s the Difference?

People often avoid salt thinking it’s “bad,” but there’s an important distinction:

• Salt is a compound made of sodium and chloride.

• Sodium is the essential mineral your body needs in the right amounts.

Too much highly processed table salt in junk food? Not great. A pinch of high-quality sea salt in your water or a sprinkle on your whole foods? That can actually support hydration and muscle function—especially if you’re active, sweating, or living in a hot climate.

Signs You May Be Dehydrated

Dehydration doesn’t always show up as thirst. Sometimes it looks like:

• Fatigue or brain fog

• Headaches

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Dry skin or lips

• Constipation

• Muscle cramps

• Mood swings or irritability

• Poor recovery from workouts

  
  

If you’ve felt “off” and can’t figure out why, hydration is a smart place to start.

How to Hydrate Better (Not Just More)

Here’s how to level up your hydration game:

1. Start your day with water. Before coffee, drink 8–16 oz of plain or salted water.

2. Add a pinch of mineral-rich salt (like Celtic or Himalayan sea salt) to your water once or twice a day.

3. Eat water-rich foods like cucumbers, watermelon, and leafy greens.

4. Drink consistently throughout the day—not all at once.

5. Consider electrolyte mixes (clean, no sugar) if you sweat heavily or feel depleted.

A Simple Electrolyte Water Recipe:

• 16–20 oz water

• A pinch of sea salt

• A squeeze of lemon

• Optional: splash of 100% fruit juice or a dash of magnesium powder

Final Encouragement

If you’re tired of feeling tired…If you want to boost your energy without caffeine…If you’re working on becoming more intentional with your health, start with water. Hydration is one of the simplest, most affordable ways to improve how you feel in your body—and yet it’s often overlooked.

I didn’t realize how much it mattered until I gave it the attention it deserved. Now it’s a daily, non-negotiable act of self-respect. You deserve to feel nourished, clear-headed, and strong—and it can start with something as simple as a sip. So, grab your water bottle, add a little salt, and start hydrating with purpose. You’ll feel the difference.

My favorite way to add electrolytes into my water for proper hydration is with Redmond Re-Lyte! It doesn't upset my stomach and the flavors taste delicious.

Re-Lyte Hydration Variety Pack 30 ct stick packs

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