Gokarna, 17 September 2026: Water should be consumed when the body needs it rather than simply out of habit or when the mind wants it, said Jagadguru Shankaracharya Sri Raghaveshwara Bharati Mahaswamiji of Sri Ramachandrapura Math.
Speaking at a discourse on water as part of the ‘Annam Brahma’ series during the ongoing ‘Annabrahma Chaturmasya’ at the Ashoke Moolamatha premises in Gokarna on September 17, 2026, the seer said that both inadequate and excessive water consumption could have adverse effects. “Excessive water intake can interfere with digestion, even when food is consumed properly,” he said, stressing the need to consume water appropriately.
According to the seer, water is essential for all living beings and should be consumed according to the body's requirement. He said Ayurvedic tradition does not prescribe a fixed quantity of water that everyone should consume.
He also noted differences between modern approaches and Ayurveda in determining water requirements. While modern recommendations may consider factors such as body weight, Ayurveda also considers an individual's body constitution and digestive capacity, he said.
Water and meals
Swamiji said that Ayurveda considers the timing and manner of drinking water important. According to the traditional understanding he cited, drinking water immediately before meals may affect digestion, while consuming water in small quantities between meals is considered beneficial.
He advised people to drink water slowly, in small sips, rather than consuming large quantities at once. He also emphasised the traditional practice of drinking water while seated. According to the spiritual and traditional perspective he explained, drinking water while sitting is associated with the development of sattva, while drinking while standing or lying down is traditionally associated with rajas and tamas, respectively.
“Water consumed properly is like nectar,” he said.
When should water be avoided?
Swamiji advised against drinking water immediately when experiencing certain intense physical or emotional states. He specifically mentioned:
- When experiencing hunger
- During anger
- When extremely tired
- When experiencing intense fear
- Immediately after exercise
He said water should instead be consumed when the body requires it and when the mind is calm and composed. Swamiji further cautioned that just as improperly consumed food or medicines can have adverse effects, excessive or inappropriate water consumption can also cause problems.
Sri Rama K.T. and his family offered Gurubhiksha Seva. Ramamurthy Hedli and his wife were present as the day’s chief guests.
Keywords: Raghaveshwara Shri, drinking water Ayurveda, water consumption, excess water intake, Annam Brahma, Gokarna News, Citizen News Puttur