This post is sponsored by Advent Health for their Feel Whole Challenge.

At the end of last year, I made my annual eye doctor appointment. Everything was routine, you know look here, read this chart, cover one eye, which one is better as he flicks something back and forth. Then he sits on his chair, spins to look at me and says “you haven’t been drinking your water.”

Busted.

At this point, clearly he was aware of my transgressions, so I say “no, how do you know?” He proceeds to tell me about a condition where you dehydrate your body to the point that the coating on your eyeball deteriorates over time as you blink. Then the kicker, mine was at a point where it was almost irreversible, and if I didn’t change my ways I could be faced with losing my eyesight.

I let that sit, then I asked more about the condition and he pulls out a handy chart to show me what the spots look like on my eyeball, and how over time it either corrects itself or the situation goes left.

I’m always trying to stay on the RIGHT side of things so I gathered my thoughts on the situation and immediately started to think of ways to hold myself accountable, cause clearly, this here was nothing to play with. I get home, take to Instagram Stories to tell my story, and to encourage others to make their annual health appointments.

I had no idea all of this was happening and had I not been diligent with my appointments by the time I would’ve realized something was wrong it could’ve been too late. I also wanted to stress the importance of drinking enough water. Since December, I average 75oz – 100oz of water a day. Some days I don’t make it, but I’ve put systems in place to remind me, and to keep this very important part of my health at the forefront.  

Once I became intentional about drinking more water, I noticed some positive changes that while small, added up to making me feel so much better daily. Here are a few.

I’m not as Tired

Yes sis! While I probably need more sleep overall, once I started drinking more water I found I was tired but not sluggish. There is a huge difference between the two.

My Skin Clarity has Improved

I think that is a given, but I had no idea what a big difference it makes when you make increased water intake a normal. Not only do I rarely get blemishes, but the overall condition of my skin has improved. My pores shrunk, it always looks moisturized, and I noticed during the winter months the heat doesn’t bother my skin as much.

Overtime Restroom Breaks Lessened

When I first started drinking more water, I felt like I was in the bathroom every 10 minutes. After a week that lessened, and over time while there has been an increase in potty breaks, they aren’t a disruption to my day. I suppose your body gets used to the additional water and stores it better? I’m not an expert so take that with a grain of salt, but know the potty breaks do lessen… at least they did for me.

I Wake Up Thirsty

It’s almost like my body is like sis, let’s start the day off right. I wake up and down 8 oz of water in a gulp. Great way to start the day.

I’m Not as Hungry and I Lost Weight

My unhealthy snacking lessened, and as a result I lost weight. I noticed my arms were smaller and my clothes fit better without me having to try.

Some of my Cycle Symptoms Went Away

When I get my cycle, my breasts are super tender and they hurt really bad. I noticed over time the soreness completely subsided. I later did research and found that some of the symptoms are due to caffeine intake. I’m thinking the water balanced things out.

I Developed an Aversion to Sweet Drinks

For once in my life I would drink something and say this is too sweet. 

Drinking out of a pretty bottle and a straw makes it easier

I’m sure a pretty bottle and straw are psychological factors that make drinking water appealing… but it works! I sought out a large, pretty bottle with a straw. I drink water much better out of a straw, I sit the bottle on my desk and mindlessly sip as I work.

As a matter of fact, I’m doing it now.

I’m a task oriented person. I write things down, I track my behaviors. Nothing makes my day like checking off the box having completed my water intake for the day. I use paper trackers in my planner, and an app when I’m on the go.

My favorite app is called My Water Balance. I do use the free version. It sends reminders that I often need. 

If I complete my goal before noon I’m more likely to get it in.

I strive to have all of my ounces drunk before noon. Looking at my personal behaviors, the afternoon is crazy with kid activities. I don’t want to have to use the restroom during the afternoon rush, therefore I strive to have my goal met before 12p. Any water I drink after that is a bonus.

These are just a few things I’ve noticed. While small, when combined they have made a huge difference in my behaviors and how I feel. Now if I can just get consistent with my fitness I’m sure I’ll feel a thousand percent better. The thing is baby steps, nail one good behavior and add on as you go. Before you know it you’ll be operating as your best self! 

Hope this inspires you to drink more water!