The Power of a Simple Morning Routine
The perfect morning routine can set the tone for a successful and productive day. However, not everyone has the luxury of time to incorporate elaborate wellness practices like meditation, yoga, or cold showers into their daily schedule. For many of us, even the simplest habits can feel challenging to adopt. But what if there was one easy, scientifically-backed practice that could make a profound difference in your overall well-being? Enter holistic nutritionist Kayla Varney’s life-changing habit: drinking a full mason jar of water first thing in the morning, every single day.
The Simple Habit That Transforms Your Day
Varney shared this powerful ritual in a TikTok video, explaining how it has become a cornerstone of her daily routine. Her advice is particularly useful for those who struggle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Studies reveal that a staggering 75% of Americans are dehydrated, consuming an average of only 2.5 cups of water daily, far below the recommended 15.5 cups for men and 11.5 cups for women. By prioritizing hydration first thing in the morning—before coffee, breakfast, or any other activity—Varney ensures she starts her day on the right foot.
For someone who admits to being “bad about drinking water,” this habit has been a game changer. A 32-ounce mason jar (equivalent to four cups) may not meet your daily hydration needs on its own, but it’s a strong foundation, especially for those who know they won’t drink much water later in the day. Varney has noticed four significant differences when she skips this step, highlighting just how critical it is to her health and well-being.
The Consequences of Skipping This Step
When Varney skips her morning hydration ritual, she experiences four noticeable effects. First, she ends up drinking far less water overall. Second, she develops a headache by the evening, likely due to dehydration causing her brain to shrink and pull away from her skull, putting pressure on her nerves. Dehydration also constricts blood vessels in the brain, reducing blood and oxygen flow, and disrupts electrolyte balance, which can further strain the nervous system.
The third consequence is immediate: her dry, sensitive skin breaks out. Varney explains that dehydration causes her skin to “freak out,” leading to feelings of tightness and dryness. When the skin lacks moisture, it can overproduce oil, clogging pores and resulting in acne. Additionally, dehydrated skin can appear dull and tired, as the lack of moisture prevents skin cells from shedding properly.
Finally, Varney notices that she simply doesn’t “feel right” when she skips her morning water. She emphasizes the importance of hydration, noting that starting the day with water is not only an act of self-care but also a simple way to set yourself up for success.
Why Hydration Matters for Your Skin
The impact of dehydration on the skin is profound and often overlooked. When the body lacks water, the skin—the largest organ—is one of the first to suffer. Dehydrated skin can feel tight, rough, and painfully dry, as it struggles to maintain its natural barrier. In an effort to compensate for the lack of moisture, the skin may overproduce oil, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. This is especially challenging for those with dry or sensitive skin, as Varney can attest.
But the effects don’t stop there. Dehydrated skin can also appear dull and lackluster, as water is essential for maintaining skin cell health and facilitating the shedding of dead cells. Without adequate hydration, skin cells thicken, giving the complexion a tired, lackluster appearance. By prioritizing morning hydration, Varney not only supports her skin health but also gives her complexion a radiant, healthy glow.
Hydration and Overall Well-Being
The benefits of starting your day with water extend far beyond the skin. Proper hydration is essential for nearly every bodily function, from digestion and energy production to focus and mood regulation. Even mild dehydration can leave you feeling fatigued, sluggish, and irritable, making it harder to tackle the challenges of the day. By drinking a full mason jar of water first thing, Varney ensures her body is functioning optimally, setting the stage for a day filled with energy, clarity, and vitality.
For Varney, this habit has become non-negotiable. She’s seen firsthand how skipping it can lead to headaches, dry skin, and a general feeling of being unwell. But when she prioritizes hydration, she feels her best, both physically and mentally. Her experience is a powerful reminder that small, consistent habits can have a big impact on our overall health and well-being.
Conclusion: A Simple Yet Powerful Morning Ritual
In a world where wellness trends often feel overwhelming or inaccessible, Kayla Varney’s morning hydration ritual offers a refreshingly simple solution. Drinking a full mason jar of water first thing in the morning is an easy, actionable habit that requires minimal time and effort but delivers significant benefits. From improving skin health to boosting energy and preventing headaches, this practice has the potential to transform your day in ways you may not even realize.
The key is consistency. By making hydration a priority, you’re not only caring for your body but also setting yourself up for success. Whether you’re a wellness enthusiast or someone struggling to stay on top of your health, this habit is a simple yet powerful step toward a healthier, happier you. So, grab a mason jar, fill it with water, and start your day off right. Your body—and your skin—will thank you.
