Water is one of the most essential elements of life. More than half of the human body is made of water, and every organ depends on it. Yet many people go through life without drinking enough. Staying hydrated helps the body detoxify, digest, circulate blood, and maintain overall balance. In Thai Traditional Medicine (TTM), proper hydration is a basic foundation of good health.
How Much Water You Need
Different traditions offer different ways to estimate daily water needs. In Western health guidelines, people are encouraged to drink an amount equal to half their body weight (lbs) in ounces. In Thai Traditional Medicine, the amount is based on your weight in kilograms divided by 25. For example, someone who weighs 50 kilograms should drink around 2 liters daily.
These numbers are only starting points. Your true needs depend on your activity, your environment, and how much you sweat. A simple way to check hydration is your urine color. Dark yellow with a strong smell means you need more water, while very pale urine often means you drank too much at once. Light yellow with no strong odor is ideal.
The Importance of Morning Hydration
TTM places special importance on the morning hours. Between six and ten a.m., the body enters its natural “water time.” During this period, the body detoxifies, refreshes its fluids, and prepares for the day. Drinking at least one liter of water before ten a.m. helps support this cleansing process and gives your body the strength and clarity it needs to function well.
A simple daily habit is to drink one or two glasses of warm water as soon as you wake up. This gently activates your digestion, supports detoxification, and helps rehydrate your body after sleep.
How to Drink Water the Right Way
The way you drink water matters just as much as the amount. Drinking large amounts during meals can weaken the digestive fire and slow digestion. Water is absorbed best in small amounts, around 2–3 swallows at a time. If you drink too quickly, most of it will pass out as urine. Drinking too much water late at night can also interrupt your sleep, as the body will wake you to urinate instead of letting you rest deeply.
Tea, coffee, and soft drinks may contain water, but they are actually dehydrating. The body needs extra water to dilute and process them, so they do not count as true hydration. Tea and coffee can support digestion after a meal, but it’s best not to drink them first thing in the morning or before eating.
A Daily Habit for Lifelong Health
Hydration may seem simple, but it influences every part of wellness. Drinking the right amount of water, at the right times, and in a way your body can truly use helps support both physical health and elemental balance. With consistent habits, staying hydrated becomes an easy way to feel clearer, lighter, and more energized each day.
