The true meaning of Water.

Ever actually thought about Water? 

We all know that water is good for us, we must stay hydrated, and we perform better when we do. There are varying opinions as to the amount of daily water consumption we require with many recommendations from nutritionists ranging from 1-2 litres per day or to simply drink when we feel the body requires it, we generally know when this is, we feel thirsty, a headache, dry mouth, yes these may be late signs of dehydration but it is not too late to grab a drink (of water). It is also believed that around 50% of our water needs are obtained through our food, making it harder to judge specifically how many glasses of water we need per day. So perhaps we are more hydrated than we think? Perhaps those headaches are stress related? 

How can we use water to feel less stressed?

This is where it gets interesting. As a mind-body therapist working on the connection between the two, I would like to discuss an interesting philosophy around water, hopefully connecting our physical needs with our mental state.

Water is built of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, making H2O. A simple molecule but a fascinating subject to many chemists, physicists and philosophers. Here is an interesting concept taking the letters H(X2) and O:

H - for Humility

H - for Harmony, and

O - for Openness.

It is interesting to think about these lessons that present to us within the properties of water, as I will go on to discuss, because water can have many deeper meanings. Water vapour is everywhere, it is within us, and all around us. There is no life without water. Of all the planets in the solar system ours is full of life giving water which makes Earth unique. 

Humility is defined as “the quality of having a modest or low view of one's importance.” When water is low in the river, it still gives life to animals and plants, without it there will be no life, dry food is stored for longer as bacteria cannot develop without water. Water knows its importance but it gives what it can to make others grow and develop. 

This is a great lesson to stay grounded and learn from others, not to rush in full steam ahead but to observe the slow growth of our relationships, work and life, naturally. Then enjoy the fruitfall rewards.

Harmony is defined as “the quality of forming a pleasing and consistent whole” and “the state of being in agreement or concord.” Water flows freely and finds a solution to problems by routing around obstacles and rocks in its way. 

We too have to find solutions and work well with others, like a musician, adding an additional note to create a full and richer sound. Our ideal, I am sure, is to work in a harmonious environment but with a lot of stresses in our way, how can we navigate these to create more harmony? Harmony is not a sign of weakness and we do not need to give in to colleagues to pursue this state, but we can work towards harmony by finding a route around these stresses and obstacles and work together in a harmonious way. 

Openness is a “lack of restriction; the quality of being receptive to new ideas, opinions, or arguments.” An amazing and unique quality of water is its ability to adapt. Water can change its form from gas to liquid and then to ice. It will respond to the most subtle changes to wind, temperature, vibration and pressure. 

We have all now become accustomed to change, some more easily than others, but if we can learn something, it is that being adaptable in this life will help us to respond to unforeseen circumstances, cope with pressures at work and feel ready and able to cope with changes. 

When water flows into the cup, it becomes the cup, pour it into a bowl and it is now taken form of the bowl. 

Remember we shouldn’t worry about things that we cannot change, be open to learn, adapt and help each other. 

There you have it, not only should we drink enough water, we should also be more like water. A nice comparison when this is a substance we simply cannot live without.