We all know that drinking water to stay hydrated is important to our physical health. It helps maximize physical performance, promotes cardiovascular health, has a major effect on energy levels and brain function, and may prevent or relieve digestive issues. Conversely, even low levels of dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, dizziness, lethargy, and constipation.

But what about our souls? What hydrates or nourishes your soul? What brings you joy or a deep sense of satisfaction?

If you’re like me, you might find January a month when your soul begins to feel depleted;  malnourished. Christmas is over and New Years has come and gone. Depending where you live, winter may seem to stretch out endlessly in front of you. It’s easy to start feeling down. The solution may not be as simple as drinking a glass of water, but there are many things we can do to hydrate our souls.

Here, in no particular order, are 12 things that nourish my soul:

• daily time in prayer and God’s Word
• spending time with people who make me happy
• soaking up sunlight
• doing something unexpected for someone else
• losing myself in a good book
• writing
• spending time in nature
• traveling
• organizing and decluttering
• exercising
• sipping a cup of tea or a glass of wine
• relaxing in a hot bath

Your prescription might be entirely different than mine, but if your soul is feeling dehydrated, here are some things you might try:

• listen to music or make music if you’re so inclined
• visit a museum or an art gallery
• watch a movie or a live theatre performance
• keep a gratitude journal
• volunteer
• go for a massage
• get some sleep
• do something creative

What hydrates your soul?