Water. Agua. Eau.
No matter who you are, where you came from, or what language you speak, water makes up around 60 percent of your body.
And yet, the simple task of replenishing it can seem like a job worthy of a 401k.
About eight glasses a day (or 64 ounces, and some say even more) continues to be the somewhat mind-boggling recommended amount.
But, all for good reason -- water is needed in every cellular process. And from a moment-to-moment standpoint, not having enough of it can also be the reason why you're tired, snacking constantly, or have frequent tension headaches.
While the goal is to consume so much H2O your pee is essentially drinkable, the question remains: How exactly do I drink that much each day?
1. Make It Part Of Your Other Habits
Think about working it into other necessary life habits.
Fill a whole glass when you're taking your vitamins or meds. Drink some on your way to and from your bathroom breaks, or when you take a walk around the office to stretch your legs.
Have some before, after, or during a meal -- whatever strikes your fancy.
2. Always Have It In The House
When I was a kid, the first thing my mom always did when we got home from anywhere was to fill herself a glass of ice water, and keep it on the counter at all times.
It instilled in me a similar habit, much like how you're taught from a young age to always wash your hands.
I find if there's a glass of water around while I'm simply padding around the house or watching TV, chances are, I'll reach for it.
3. And While You're At It, Bring Water With You Whenever You Leave The House
Get a water bottle (preferably something you find cute, so you'll be more willing to reach for it every day), fill it up, and keep that bad boy in your bag.
Whether small or large, always have it on hand.
In fact, it might actually serve to remind you that you're thirsty, because it's pretty easy to forget.
4. Dress It Up Real Nice
Add a lemon or a lime. Or throw some crushed raspberries or mint in there. Or perhaps some tart cranberry or cherry juice.
Apple cider vinegar plus raw honey can be a delectable combination, too.
Whatever your heart desires, just go for it.
5. Filters On Filters On Filters
I find when I have a Brita in the fridge, or I'm around one of those water coolers, I'm actually excited to have water.
It tastes good, it's so cold, and it's been (hopefully) cleared of whatever weird little contaminants that might be floating around.
I say beeline for a cup every time you see one. It's the little things, you know?
6. Time It Just Right
When I wake up in the morning, the first thing I try to do is drink water, even before my one true love, a hot cup of brew.
To put it simply, it feels good, and it's a great way to start the day-long hydrating process.
I do try to avoid drinking a lot at night, however, because it means disrupting my snooze with repeated trips to the loo. Ain't nobody got time for that.
7. Some Drinks Are Better Than Others
I'm still attached to the disaster that is Diet Coke, and while coffee apparently has gotten an undue bad rap as contributing to dehydration in small doses, caffeinated bevvies can dehydrate if consumed really frequently.
I've noticed they also make my pee smell weird (same with sugary drinks). These are just the facts, people.
Alcohol is another one to watch out for. As much as you may love how you feel drinking it, when all is said and done, it's still a diuretic, and it can deplete your cells of water.
Herbal teas or seltzer, on the other hand, are a bit more exciting than plain old H2O and still help you hydrate.
