Experts say that we’re supposed to drink eight glasses of water per day. I don’t know about you, but I can’t do it. I mean I’ve tried it, and I am capable of consuming all that water, but I don’t like it –too many bathroom breaks. And it seems unnatural, almost medicinal to drink that much. And because it seems physically wrong (although I accept the logic of why that is not so), it also seems philosophically wrong –indulgent, if not wasteful.  So I choose to excuse my less-than-optimal water consumption on an environmental basis. This means that I’m going to hell for two reasons; an unhealthy diet and the perversion of the benign cause of conservation.  (Yes, I know – Eight glasses of water also includes the water content of juices, milk and foods like fruit and vegetables. Don’t send me chastising emails…or if you do, at least give me credit for knowing this much.)

Are you thirsty for more knowledge? Our annual ‘Water Issue’ has you covered. Start with the ‘Bucket Method’ to water your trees (p.8). Rod MacDonald lauds the benefits of Aquafitness (p. 25). Dr. Claude Gallant and Joel Thuna give you the rundown on the best way to hydrate (p.33) and Susan Gottlieb discusses water as an investment (p.51). Once you’re thoroughly saturated please also read about natural treatments for menopause by Dr. Elvis Ali (p.49), Dr. Joey Shulman’s take on healthy grilling (p. 37) and Dr. Craig Hudson’s fascinating research of tryptophan and sleep. Also, Dr. Bryce Wylde educates on identifying and responding to your biomarkers. (p. 21). Truly, there’s much, much more to read in this month’s Tonic, but I don’t want you to feel swamped. Drift along at your own pace.

jamie@tonictoronto.com.