While you don't literally chew water, the phrase is often used metaphorically to describe the practice of holding liquids in your mouth for a short time and mixing them with saliva before swallowing. According to the provided reference, the primary reason for doing this is to allow the liquid to thoroughly mix with your saliva.
Understanding "Chewing" Water
Instead of simply gulping down liquids like water, juice, smoothies, or detox drinks, the practice referred to as "chewing" water involves:
- Taking a sip of the liquid.
- Holding it inside the mouth for a while.
- Moving it around to mix with the saliva.
- Then swallowing the mixture.
The Role of Saliva
Saliva plays a crucial role in digestion, even before food reaches the stomach. It contains enzymes like amylase, which start breaking down carbohydrates. While water itself doesn't require digestion in the same way food does, mixing any liquid with saliva is seen by some as beneficial or part of a mindful approach to consumption.
According to the reference:
"When we take a sip of water, juice, smoothie, detox drink etc, it should be allowed to mix with the saliva by moving it around. Holding it inside the mouth for a while before swallowing helps."
This suggests the act facilitates the interaction between the liquid and the natural components of saliva.
Potential Benefits (Based on Context)
Although the reference doesn't explicitly state the benefits of mixing water with saliva, it mentions this practice in the context of savoring a meal and enjoying its texture, color, and flavor. This placement suggests that allowing liquids to interact with saliva might be seen as part of a broader approach to mindful eating and drinking, potentially aiding the initial stages of the digestive process for other substances consumed alongside or after the liquid.
Practical Application
Implementing this practice is simple:
- When you take a sip of water or any other drink, don't swallow immediately.
- Keep the liquid in your mouth for a few seconds.
- Gently swish it around, allowing it to mix with your saliva.
- Swallow normally.
This mindful way of drinking, while perhaps less critical for pure water compared to other liquids, aligns with principles of being present during consumption, potentially enhancing the overall experience related to digestion and hydration.
Summary of Why to "Chew" Water
| Action Taken | Purpose (According to Reference) | Context Mentioned |
|---|---|---|
| Hold liquid in mouth | Allow mixing with saliva | Taking a sip of liquids |
| Move liquid around | Ensure thorough mixing with saliva | Before swallowing |
| Holding before swallowing | Helps the mixing process | Related to savouring meal |
In conclusion, "chewing water" is a technique to ensure water or other liquids are mixed with saliva in the mouth before being swallowed. While the specific benefits for water are not detailed, this practice is presented as part of a mindful approach to consuming liquids, potentially related to preparing the mouth and digestive system, or simply being more present during the act of drinking.
