Every day on my commute to work, I pass by the gym and tell myself "today's the day," but the second 6 pm rolls around, I'm exhausted from the long workday, and end up back on the couch, ordering take out.
A few months ago, I decided today was my day after seeing the gym was offering a month free for new members. When I finally walked in to sign up, I discovered it was too good to be true - they required a full-year commitment. Nothing in life is free!
I was a little disheartened but determined to make a lasting change to my wellness routine. I wanted more energy and to feel less bloated, and I knew there had to be a way to do so without signing my life away to the gym.
I needed something more manageable, so after doing some research, I decided to make a change with my diet and drink more water.
I challenged myself to drink only water for 4 weeks. The thing is, I'm so bored with the taste of water, which is why I always end up drinking juice or iced tea.
When looking for alternatives, I found Hint, water flavored with the skins of fruits. It has zero calories, sugar, diet sweeteners, or preservatives, so I thought it'd be a perfect substitute for boring tap water. So, I decided to try some Hint and began my journey.
Week 1 - Increased Hydration, Less Bloating
Wow, I didn't realize how dehydrated I'd been. I used to wake up every morning with the driest month but drinking more water is definitely helping me feel more refreshed and less bloated.
I also used to drink coffee every morning - although the first day I had a huge headache from not getting my morning dose of caffeine, drinking Hint water definitely has now helped that, too.
Major Learning - BABY STEPS TO START!
Week 2 - Clearer, Fresher Skin
Is my skin looking nicer? I haven't had a zit in a while, and I definitely noticed that my skin was less dry and that I use less lotion each morning.
Hinthas such a large selection of flavors, I was so excited to order my next bundle: I loved Peach and Pineapple, and I was pumped to try Watermelon and Crisp Apple. It's nice too because you can order a subscription and have it delivered right to your door, so I didn't have to keep going to the store to get more. How much more convenient can it be? Plus, shipping is free on any 3 cases or more! Bonus.
So, at the end of week two, I went out with some friends and overindulged a little too much. I had so much fun, but the next morning, I woke up super bloated. It was the motivation I needed to know that I wanted to make it to the end of the 4 weeks. (It takes 4 weeks to make a habit, right?)
Major Learning - STICK TO YOUR GOALS!
Week 3 - Sleeping Better
Heading into the second half of this challenge, I'm feeling a lot better about myself. I've sworn off needless junk sugar and empty calories because my sweet drink cravings have just about vanished. Hint's signature delicious flavor comes from fruit skins, making it completely free of calories without sacrificing flavor.
Now I'm sleeping better and feel so much more productive during the day. I realize this journey isn't just about diet and restrictions. But a matter of attention and care - self-care. Care about what I put in my body.
Major Learning - BUILD ON YOUR SUCCESSES!
Week 4 - Added Energy
I'm no longer a demon without coffee, and I can't believe how much more energy I have from not relying on sugars and diet sweeteners. I find myself waking up a little earlier, and I'm less exhausted at the end of the day.
I wasn't sure I would complete the 4-week challenge, but I'm feeling more energized than ever to stay committed to my health journey and plan to keep drinking Hint water and getting a delivery each month.
Major Learning - DON'T STOP NOW!
4 Weeks Behind Me
Crossed the finish line - learned to Hydrate-Hydrate-Hydrate, and with Hint it's always delish! Next step, let's try a workout class!
Update: Hint is extending a special offer to our readers! Follow this link to get 36 bottles for only $36
