Summer-infused water recipes for a better mood

The great part about infused water is that it’s literally effortless to make.

All you need is fresh produce (fruit, veggies, and herbs) along with cold water.

Start by choosing what flavor you want, wash and chop your produce and simply add it to your water.

Obviously, the more produce you add, the more intense the flavor will be. The intensity will also depend on how long you let the ingredients soak/infuse.

Some items (like cucumber, melon, citrus fruits and mint) will add flavor almost immediately, while other items like rosemary, berries, apples and ginger will need to soak overnight.

Infusing can take place at room temperature for about 2 hours, but to prevent bacteria growth infusions should be stored in the fridge if soaking for longer than a couple of hours.

If you’re making a large batch of infused water that will be sitting out for a party, be sure to add plenty of ice to keep it chilled and prevent bacteria growth.

And yes, you can eat the fruit after you’re done drinking your infused water. I do this all the time!

Strawberries are rich in Vitamin C, which is known to reduce stress, while thyme is often used in aromatherapy practices for it’s calming and relaxing effects. 

• 6 chopped strawberries
• 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
• 1 quart cold water

Let mixture infuse for at least 2 hours or overnight for full flavor.

Both raspberries and rosemary are great for muscle recovery so this combo is perfect for sipping after your workout. 

• 1/2 cup raspberries
• 2-3 sprigs rosemary
• 1-quart cold water

Let the mixture infuse for at least 2 hours or overnight for full flavor.

Drinking water is amazing for your skin, but add in antioxidant-rich blueberries which are loaded with vitamins that promote healthy, plump skin and basil which has oils that help to lower inflammation and slow down the effects of aging and you’ve got yourself a lovely little beauty blend. 

• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 1/4 cup fresh basil
• 1-quart cold water

Let the mixture infuse for at least 2 hours or overnight for full flavor. You can also try muddling the berries for even more flavor.

Cucumber lemon-infused water is wildly popular and for good reason. This combo is alkalizing, aids in digestion to help flush toxins from your system, and reduces your appetite. Add mint for even more digestion support. One sip of this cucumber lemon combo and you’ll feel like you’re at a spa. 

• 1/4 cucumber, sliced
• 1/2 lemon, sliced
• 1-quart cold water

Let the mixture infuse for at least 2 hours or overnight for full flavor.

Speed up your metabolism — being dehydrated actually slows down the fat-burning process.

Reduce toxins— burning calories creates toxins and water plays a vital role in flushing those toxins out of your body.

More energy — dehydration causes a reduction in blood volume; a reduction in blood volume causes a reduction in the supply of oxygen to your muscles; and a reduction in the supply of oxygen to your muscles can make you feel tired.

More effective workouts — water helps maintain muscle tone by assisting muscles in their ability to contract. It also lubricates your joints. Proper hydration can also help reduce muscle and joint soreness when exercising.

I think that drinking enough water is just such a common topic that creating these "Summer-infused" drinks can bring a little fun into it.

Let me know your most favourite produce to infuse water with & share your thoughts if you try any of the mentioned recipes.

I hope you have the best summer, ladies! I can't wrap my head around the fact it's already July...