You're Probably Not Hydrating Properly

(Here's how to fix it)

THE BALANCE ROUTINE
SEP 19, 2025

Hi friends,

I used to think hydration was simple. Drink tons of water, feel better, right? Turns out there's way more to it than that, and most of us are missing a crucial piece that makes all the difference!

For the past few years starting Janurary 1, I did this mental and physical challenge called 75 Hard. Along with a few other tasks to compete every day, you have to drink a gallon of water every day for 75 days. Sounds healthy, right??

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Well, I was drinking purified, filtered water - a whole gallon of it - and I was literally using the restroom every 30 minutes.

I felt like I was drowning from the inside but somehow still not actually hydrated. I never felt like I was truly absorbing it. If you’re reading this and you’ve done 75 Hard, you might know what I’m talking about!

Here's what I didn't understand then:

Water alone doesn't hydrate you at the cellular level. You need minerals to actually pull that water into your cells where it can do its job.

Sol Water: 1/3 cup quality celtic salt in filtered water - put 1/4 of this under tounge or in your water every morning

When you drink plain water, especially large amounts of it, you're essentially diluting the minerals in your body. Your kidneys work overtime to maintain balance (which is why you end up running to the bathroom constantly but still feeling thirsty).

It's like trying to fill a bucket with holes in it. The water just passes right through without doing what it's supposed to do.

Here’s what proper hydration looks like…

Real hydration happens when water gets into your cells, not just your stomach and running through your body. And that requires electrolytes - specifically sodium, potassium, and magnesium working together to create the right conditions for cellular uptake.

This is why I've become obsessed with quality salt. Not table salt with its anti-caking agents and processing, but real sea salt or Celtic salt that contains the full spectrum of minerals your body needs.

And CERTAINLY not those expensive “electrolyte” packets we see everywhere with tons of sugar, artificial flavors, and minimal actual electrolytes. (Lookin’ at you Liquid IV, LMNT, Gatorade Powder/Packets).

Don’t waste your $$$. Remember: nature provides us with everything we need to thive.

I digress…

So I'll do a pinch of Celtic salt under my tongue followed by a large glass of water with lemon. Or I'll use about 1/4 teaspoon of sole water (shown above) - that's fully saturated salt water that I keep in a jar on my counter.

The difference in how I feel is honestly remarkable. My workouts are better, my energy is more stable, and I'm not constantly running to the bathroom despite drinking plenty of water.

You’re not properly hydrating if…

Your body gives you signals when hydration isn't working properly. Things like persistent thirst even after drinking water, frequent urination with light-colored urine, infrequent dark-colored urination, afternoon energy crashes, headaches, muscle cramps, or just the feeling of being "off" even when you think you think you’re drinking enough water.

Another interesting fact is sometimes what we interpret as hunger is actually our body asking for minerals and proper hydration :)

The solution…

Quality salt with your water changes everything. Whether that's a pinch under your tongue in the morning or adding Celtic salt to your water.

After a workout, I'll make what's essentially an adrenal cocktail - Celtic salt, a squeeze of orange juice for potassium, and a pinch of cream of tartar for additional mineral support. It replenishes what I've lost through sweat way better than any sports drink

The shift from drinking plain water to effectively hydrating my body has been one of the simplest changes I’ve been able to stick to for years now, and has truly created ripple effects everywhere else. Better sleep, more consistent energy, fewer cravings, improved recovery from workouts.

If this resonates with you, you'll love my "Beyond the Plate: Healing Drinks for Optimal Health" guide. It includes proper hydration protocols, adrenal support drinks, and 40+ drink recipes and natrual remedies that support your body's natural functions.

Have a fabulous weekend!!

Your friend,
Melissa
The Balance Routine

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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Hydration needs vary by individual, and those with heart conditions, kidney issues, or other health concerns should consult their healthcare provider before making significant changes to their salt or water intake. Always listen to your body and seek professional guidance for persistent health issues.