Kidney Health & Hydration
Hydration is key to maintaining healthy kidneys, which are responsible for filtering waste from the blood and removing it through urine. Without proper hydration, the kidneys can’t perform this essential function efficiently. Traditional and modern health systems all concur on the importance of hydration for kidney health. Water is crucial, not only to aid in waste removal but also to keep blood vessels open, allowing blood to carry nutrients to the kidneys. This circulation helps support kidney function and overall health.
Early signs of dehydration can appear even before you feel thirsty. Dry skin or lips, for example, often signal that your body is not getting enough water. These signs can occur before you start to feel thirsty, making them useful indicators to watch for. Dehydration can also be identified by other symptoms, such as dark urine or a decrease in urination frequency. Since there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for water intake, the best way to gauge hydration is by monitoring the colour of your urine – pale yellow typically indicates sufficient hydration.
Staying hydrated is especially important before and after physical activities like yoga. Drinking water before yoga ensures that your body is well-prepared (especially in the morning, when the body is dry even during cooler seasons) for the demands of the practice. Afterwards, hydration helps replenish fluids lost through sweat. It is recommended to drink lukewarm water rather than cold, as it is more easily absorbed by the body and supports the kidneys and digestion. However, it’s best to avoid drinking water during yoga itself - the first half typically intentionally warms you up.
Incorporating mindful hydration into your daily routine supports kidney health, ensuring that your body functions optimally and helping to prevent the early signs of dehydration from affecting your wellbeing.
Further Reading
The Importance of Sleep : Repair, Restore, Revitalise
The Importance of Relaxation : Release Stress & Tension
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