top of page

Water's Hidden Powers: Hydration's Impact on Jet Lag, Mental Health, Performance, and Facial Glow


woman holding a glass of water

Photo Credit: Canva


Water. It's clear, it's simple, and it's absolutely essential for life! You've probably heard a million times, "drink more water!" and thought to yourself, "I get it, water is good for me." But did you know that hydration plays a vital role in everything from jet lag recovery to mental health, athletic performance, and even lymphatic face massages? If not, grab a glass of water and let's dive in!



| What is Dehydration?


Is dehydration the unexpected saboteur silently undermining your well-being, draining your energy, and leaving you fatigued? Dehydration may happen when your body loses more fluids than it takes in, disrupting the balance of salts and sugars in your blood. This imbalance can interfere with the body's functions and can lead to symptoms ranging from mild thirst and tiredness to more severe effects like dizziness or even fainting.


Did you know that a minor 2% decrease in body water weight – an easy occurrence during intense physical activity or heat – can impact cognitive functions, physical performance, and mood?


Though we often associate dehydration with heat waves and marathon runs, it can sneak up on us in different situations - even when flying.



| Jet Lag: The Hidden Water Connection

woman in a flight cabin holding a phone and a glass

Photo Credit: iStock


Jet lag, that familiar sensation after a long-haul flight, can challenge your body to adjust to a new time zone. But here's an uplifting fact: hydrating can significantly ease this adjustment! Staying hydrated is like giving your body a VIP pass to a more enjoyable travel experience, making those long-haul flights feel like a breeze.


Did you know that even the air in those lush business class cabins, despite the extra legroom, can encourage your body to lose water faster than usual due to low humidity? Combine that with a few cups of coffee or that tempting glass of wine (which can dehydrate you further), and your body's hydration balance might be up for a little rollercoaster ride.


But fear not, as there's a simple, yet powerful solution: water. Drinking water before, during, and after your flight can help keep your hydration levels in check, reducing the impact of jet lag. So on your next adventure, remember to pack your essentials and let water be your ultimate travel companion!



| Water-rich Foods and a Happy Mind


Did you know that staying hydrated might just be the most cost-effective mood booster? According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, mild dehydration can cause your mood to do an impressive imitation of a yo-yo. It can leave you feeling a bit down, foggy, and like your brain is on a perpetual coffee break.


If you persistently treat hydration like a recurring New Year's resolution (we've all been there), it could potentially nudge more substantial mental health issues like anxiety or depression to come out and play.


Remember that hydration isn't just about guzzling water. Consuming water-rich fruits and vegetables, such as cucumbers, oranges, and strawberries, can also help you stay hydrated and greatly contribute to maintaining your mental health. A well-hydrated brain operates more efficiently and can aid in keeping your mood elevated.


While water isn't a magic cure for all your problems, it is a loyal friend to your overall well-being. So, let's treat it like one! Pour yourself a glass (of water, of course!) and give your well-being the boost it deserves.



| Water: Your Cheerleader on the Field

chest with hand holding a bottle of water at a gym

Photo Credit: Canva


If you're an athlete, a familiar face at the gym, or a dedicated enthusiast at your local Barre studio, think of water as not just your number one fan, but your best workout partner! A fascinating fact from a study in the Journal of Athletic Training suggests that being dehydrated by even just 2% can decrease performance by up to 10%. Yes, just 2% dehydration can turn a gold medal into no medal.


This modest dehydration can sap your energy, tamper with your coordination, and may even quell your motivation, essentially turning your high-energy workout into a less productive session. So whether you're gearing up for a marathon, swimming laps, breaking a sweat in a spinning class, or plié-ing like a pro in Barre, hydration should be your workout mantra. Remember to hydrate before, during, and after your training, because in the gym of life, water is your best weight to lift!



| Lymphatic Face Massage: Hydration’s Secret Ally

woman with eyes closed receiving a face massage

Photo Credit: Maison Ito (featuring The Signature face massage)


Ever wondered how hydration figures into the world of lymphatic face massages? As it turns out, our lymphatic system, the body's waste removal and detox superstar, thrives on fluids. A lymphatic face massage can stimulate the lymph nodes nestled beneath your skin, promoting detoxification. However, for it to truly shine, it needs a steady supply of - you guessed it - water!


Emilie Céline, founder and facialist of Maison Ito, passionately endorses this connection. "Consider hydration as the key to unlocking optimal wellness. It's like nourishing a garden - the water helps the lymph flow effortlessly, carrying away toxins and paving the way for a vibrant, healthy complexion," says Emilie Céline.


When you're prepping for your next face massage, bear in mind that your hydration strategy should include more than just that post-session glass of water. It's equally important to let your skin drink up ample hydration. After all, in this wellness journey, both internal and external hydration are equally deserving of the spotlight.



Remember, Hydration is vital, but it's not about "drinking as much water as possible." Your ideal water intake can depend on numerous factors like climate, activity levels, health, and diet. Rather, it's about maintaining a healthy balance that suits your unique lifestyle and body's needs.


Staying hydrated is like giving your body a big, refreshing hug. It impacts so many parts of our lives in ways we may not even realize. So whether you're a jet-setter, an athlete, or someone just trying to keep their mind happy and healthy, a simple glass of water can be transformative.


Lastly, for our skincare enthusiasts, we have something special for you - Maison Ito's lymphatic face massage, our Signature face massage. This unique and sensorial experience, when combined with proper hydration, can enhance both your mood and your skin's health, offering you that much-coveted radiant glow. So why wait? Start your hydration journey with us at our wellness salon, and let's toast to a healthier, more vibrant you together!



BY ÉMILIE CÉLINE




38 views0 comments
bottom of page