Wellness Wednesday: Cheer Up with Spa Water
- by bonappetit
For guests in many Bon Appétit cafés, spa water is a familiar mainstay. We fill large urns with seasonal produce and fresh herbs, infusing plain water with subtle flavors and bright, eye-popping color. This makes it easy and pleasurable for you to hydrate.
And it’s a good thing, too. Water is essential for many bodily functions — it flushes toxins out of your body, carries nutrients to your cells, regulates temperature, lubricates joints, and helps keep your organs (especially your kidneys) healthy. Even mild dehydration can leave you feeling sluggish, light-headed, and less focused.
With so many of us at home, staying hydrated is one easy way to maintain your wellbeing — and add a little cheer to your daily routine.
To make your own spa water:
- Place a small bunch of washed, garden-grown (or store-bought) whole herbs into a pitcher or widemouth jar. You may remove herbs from their stems and strain the water before pouring, or leave herbs like rosemary, thyme, mint, and tarragon whole. (Leaving them whole is easier, as they act as a built-in filter when pouring!)
- Add attractively cut, washed fruit or vegetables. Look in your crisper and use what you have on hand. Cucumber rounds, sliced citrus, cut stone fruit, melon wedges, and whole berries are all nice options, but let your own tastes guide you.
- Fill pitcher with water and refrigerate. Steep a few hours to infuse.
When ready to enjoy, strain (if necessary) into a glass with or without ice. Drink within two days, before the herbs and fruit begin to brown.