Our Healthy Bodies

Make Mine Water!

We all know that the body is composed primarily of water, and that our organs need plenty of water to keep us healthy operate efficiently.  In the Summer, when it is warm out, it is very common to carry a water bottle around to quench that Summer thirst.  But as the days get cooler and we move into Winter, we often forget that our bodies need just as much water—or more.

While we may not be losing as much water through perspiration in the Winter, we still need to keep ourselves fully hydrated.  Experts tell us that by the time we feel thirsty, we are already dehydrated.  The trick is to keep drinking plenty of fluids and hydrate ourselves BEFORE we feel the urge to have a big drink of water.

Furnaces and wood stoves make our homes nice and toasty, but they can wreak havoc on the skin and hair.  We need our skin to remain hydrated to feel soft and supple.  Drinking plenty of water during the months we have the heat running is the best way to keep our skin healthy.

What about other drinks?  Fruit juice, herbal tea, and clear soups ‘count’ toward the goal of 8 glasses of water daily.  Coffee, sodas, other caffeinated drinks, and alcoholic beverages do not count.  In fact, all of these are dehydrating, so we need to add a glass of water for every glass of wine, soda, or coffee we consume.

So remember, keep that water bottle handy, warm up with clear broths, and enjoy hot herbal teas.  Make sure you drink plenty of water, and keep yourself hydrated—and healthy—all Winter.

             Susan Seaburg

Susan Seaburg is a Wellness Coach, Nutritionist, and Yoga Teacher who writes articles and consults with individuals and families to help them achieve their wellness objectives.

© Susan Seaburg, 2006

Zephyr Point Family Retreat

January is right around the corner so now is the time to register for the wonderful St. Philip’s family retreat weekend taking place Friday 1/19 and Saturday 1/20 at the Zephyr Point Retreat Center in Lake Tahoe.  The cost is approximately $300 for a family of four for two night’s stay including meals.  You also have the option of staying additional days if you wish.  Each room is comfortable and boasts gorgeous views of Lake Tahoe.  Spend the days sledding, skiing downhill or cross-country, or just relaxing at the retreat.  Evenings are a great time to spend with other families in fellowship.

The rooms are rented on a first come, first serve basis and there are only eight rooms left of the 15 originally reserved.  Get your room now before they are all gone. Contact Jose Gonzalez to get registered for this very special once-a-year St. Philip’s fellowship experience.

Zephyr Point Conference Center and Lodgings.

View of Lake Tahoe from Zephyr Point.