·Power of attorney: it is a legal document where one person (the principal) authorizes (the agent) to act on his/her behalf. Financial powers of attorneys allow your agent to make decisions regarding your property. Healthcare powers of attorney allow your agent to make decisions regarding your health care needs.

Your advance directive should be valid in any state. Because of state-to-state differences, however, it is better to have it witnessed and notarized. And remember that in most states your advance directive will go into effect ONLY if you are no longer able to communicate your own wishes. In addition, unless you revoke it, it will stay in effect until your death.

How can you tell if you are dehydrated? According to article, Your Body Feels Great When You Hydrate by Urologist, Dr. Lawrence Ross, your urine will be dark yellow if you aren’t getting enough water. How much is enough? The rule of thumb is to drink one-half ounce of water per pound of body weight per day. If you are more active, drink two-thirds ounce of water per pound of body weight. Caffeinated and alcoholic beverages do not count; they can actually act as a diuretic and dehydrate body. Sugary juices are also not recommended for hydration as they may lead to kidney stones. Certain types of food can help top up your daily water requirements, however, stick to those foods closest to nature. That is, stick to fruits and vegetables; they have most water content of all foods. Things like bread, for instance, or any other processed type food will not provide you with adequate water intake.

Okay, so you’re now convinced that keeping your fluid levels up is important for body, mind and soul, but how do you make it a habit? According to Marianne Woods Cirone in her article, Benefits of Drinking Water and Health Information on Importance of Drinking Water, once you wake up in morning, drink one to two cups of water or herbal tea. “These first glasses are so crucial because you are reversing any mild dehydration that may have occurred overnight, especially if you cut off your water consumption a couple of hours before bedtime in order to reduce nighttime trips to bathroom.”

But, wait. What if thought of drinking water bores you to tears? Try these tips to spice it up: add a slice of lemon, lime or cucumber to your glass; fill a large jug with water and several ice cubes or use a frosty mug—when that cool, crisp water hits your throat, there’s nothing like it.

Thirsty? Thought so.

For more information and sources, check out these websites and books:

Your Body’s Many Cries for Water and ABC of Allergies and Lupus by Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidji, MD

The Healing Energies of Water by Charlie Ryrie

The Complete Book of Water Healing by Dian Dincin Buchman, Ph.D

The Detox Solution by Patricia Fitzgerald

www.Watercure.com, Global Health Solutions’ Website

www.Water.com

www.Water-Institute.com

www.yoga-for-health-and-fitness.com