how to drink more water.

So I've talked a LOT about this blog and where I want it to go, but only recently did I sit down and actually plan out specific things I want to talk about. I honestly think I've kept this blog strictly personal for so long because I feel so intimidated by the thought of giving advice or offering actual tips and tricks.

So then I thought, you know what? I'll start small and simple. I mean, really simple. And therefore today, I'm welcoming a new feature where I offer bits of inspiration and tips about the things I know best. Starting with tips for drinking more water. It don't get more simple than this, y'all.

Anyone who knows me, knows that I'm water's #1 fan. I'm one of those lucky people who actually love drinking water. I harp on my friends to drink more water. Even if you think you're getting enough, you probably should be drinking more.

1. Get a giant water bottle and keep it with you at all times.
It doesn't have to be a Camelbak or some kind of fitness water bottle. (Although I have a Camelbak I use to take to the gym and love it.)
I've talked before about my love for The Mason Bar Company. I use their 24 oz. Tumbler with the glass straw and LOVE it. I love drinking from glass because the water tastes so clean and cool.  And 24 oz. is a lot of water, people. I also truly believe that sipping away absentmindedly through a straw helps. I fill this baby up several times a day without giving it a second thought.

2. If you don't have a filter already in your fridge, get one to keep inside.
I've only used Brita filters and have been pleased with them. I use the Space Saver one in my dorm room, and it fits in the DOOR of my mini-fridge. No precious shelf space gets taken up! Fellow college students, you have no excuse.

3. Download the WaterIn App.
I just recently downloaded this app, and I'm obsessed. As a design nerd, I love the super sleek and simple design. It's completely customizable so you can edit how many ounces your glasses are. I straight up entered "24 oz." for my "One Bottle" and BOOM: now when I finish off one of my Mason Bar Tumblers, I just click a button and it adds to my total for the day. It's seriously that easy. And you can customize how many ounces you want to drink a day. A good formula to use is: your body weight x 2/3 = total number of ounces. And then, just add an extra 12 oz per every 30 minutes you work out that day.

4. Infuse your water with fruits and herbs.
My school's cafeteria has mint and cucumber infused water which I drink almost daily. The refreshing taste makes me feel like I'm having a treat instead of drinking regular water like I normally do.
I also love to infuse a lime slice or two in my water, but of course you could always just add classic lemon.
A Beautiful Mess did a post on infused water recipes, and there are a ton on Pinterest.