Water is an essential part of life. We need it for survival and sustainability.
While most people understand the importance of water and consuming enough of it each day, there’s more to it than just staying hydrated.
Water has incredible healing properties. That’s why so many people use it for recreational and relaxation activities. Everything from swimming to taking a warm bath can improve your well-being.
But, there’s no denying that we’re facing a water crisis. While the planet will likely never run out of water, conservation efforts are important. Not everyone around the globe has access to clean water, and “wasting” it here – even when it comes to using it for healing purposes – is irresponsible and potentially harmful to the planet.
So, what can you do to enjoy the healing benefits of this life-sustaining resource, while practicing sustainability? How can you do your part to be environmentally conscious when it comes to your water use and consumption?
Educate Yourself on What You Need
While water conservation is important, it doesn’t mean you should “cut back” on getting the amount your body needs each day. The average man should consume over 15 cups of water each day, while most women need around 11.5 cups. Obviously, that fluid intake can come from other sources, including food and additional beverages. Don’t limit your water intake (although you may want to stop drinking out of single-use plastic bottles!). It won’t make a big enough difference to impact the planet, and you could be putting your health at risk in the process.
Additionally, if you utilize water for healing purposes, keep doing it. Swimming, for example, can help with a variety of health conditions, including:
- Arthritis
- Stress
- Depression/anxiety
- Obesity
It can also improve vein health without being too hard on your joints, making it a great exercise option for almost everyone. Whether you go to a public pool or use your own, don’t compromise your health or well-being for water sustainability purposes. Again, your efforts wouldn’t make much of a dent. Public pools will be filled whether you use them or not, and your family members and friends will want to enjoy your private pool, too.
Instead, educate yourself on your individual needs when it comes to water use. Consider other areas of your life where you might be able to cut back and make a difference without putting your health in jeopardy.
Make Changes Around Your Home
Chances are, you use the most water at home. Whether you’re washing dishes or keeping yourself clean, some of your best conservation efforts can start with where you live.
We already talked about having a private pool, and there’s nothing wrong with enjoying a swim in the comfort of your backyard. Buying a home swimming pool even comes with plenty of perks. But, if you’re feeling a bit guilty about using so much water for recreational purposes, there are things you can do to make your pool more eco-friendly, including:
- Adding a cover to shade the pool
- Using organic water filtration
- Investing in a solar heater
- Putting up a windbreaker to reduce water evaporation
Don’t have a pool? Consider other items around your home that could be made more efficient or sustainable when it comes to water conservation. If you’re willing to invest in a sustainable future, installing items like low-flow toilets and faucets can give you the everyday benefits of water without wasting so much of it. Solar water heaters are also increasing in popularity since they rely on solar power to generate hot water for your home rather than electricity or gas. You can have peace of mind enjoying a warm shower or bath, knowing you’re not relying on non-renewable resources for the water to reach the right temperature.
Switch Some Daily Habits
You might be surprised by how easy it is to enjoy the benefits of water while changing some of your usage habits. A few small everyday changes can go a long way. If you receive a monthly water bill, take note of how many gallons you and your family use each month before and after making some simple changes. You can stay motivated by “gamifying” your habits to see how many gallons you can cut down each time.
Some of the simplest ways to reduce your water use at home include:
- Waiting until the dishwasher or washing machine has a full load before running a cycle
- Checking toilets and sinks for leaks
- Turning off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving
- Taking shorter showers
If you enjoy taking warm baths, you’re not alone. They’re great for reducing stress and soothing aching muscles. But, baths typically use more water than showers. Try to make showering an everyday habit, and baths more of a special treat or occasional act of self-care. When you do decide to take a nice long bath, make the most of it by using essential oils, your favorite candles, or even bath bombs. Make sure to use products that don’t contain any harsh chemicals or other additives that don’t dissolve well. That includes cornstarch, glitter, flower petals, and cocoa butter.
There’s no reason you can’t take advantage of the healing benefits of water while being more environmentally conscious. Water is an incredible resource, and we’re all lucky to take advantage of it. That’s exactly why it’s important to “give back” to the planet as much as possible, and protect this resource through our everyday use. By putting some of these ideas into practice, you can continue to enjoy the lasting benefits of water more sustainably and responsibly.
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