Raise a glass - or several

6 ways to drink more water without thinking about it

Staying hydrated is one of the pillars of healthy living. In fact, according to the Mayo Clinic, women should drink 11.5 cups (92 oz) of water a day, and men should drink 15.5 cups (124 oz) a day. But, if we're being honest, water can be pretty boring to drink - there are things we'd rather be drinking, and busy schedules make it difficult. Here are some ways to wok more water into your daily routine to promote optimal health.

Begin and end your day with water.
Make it a routine to drink a large glass of water upon waking up and before going to bed. "Bookending" your day like this ensures that your body is hydrated for both the day and night ahead.

Drink a cup of water with each cup of coffee.
Many of us are used to drinking more than one cup of coffee throughout the day. If you drink a glass of water with each cup of coffee, you're sure to stay hydrated. Keep in mind that while coffee is a liquid and contains water, it's not very thirst quenching.

Ice is your friend.
Each time you pour a drink or make a smoothie, use lots of ice! Your taste buds will hardly notice the difference, and you'll still have lots of flavor while boosting your hydration.

Drink a full glass with supplements or vitamins.
Many of us get in the habit of only taking a large sip of water with pills. However, whether you take a supplement, medication, or vitamin, wash it down with a full glass of water.

Carry around a large water bottle.
Taking your water with you in a large bottle reminds you to keep sipping wherever you go. Every chance you get, fill it up. The bottomless water bottle is a perfect way to work more water into your day. As a bonus, you can use a measured bottle to see how much you've actually drank throughout the day!

Infuse your water.
Try giving your H2O an extra kick. Add berries, lemon, lime, or mint to your water to give it some flavor and help make it more enticing to drink!

Water is important for a healthy body and mind, so follow these tips to stay hydrated.