One of the biggest changes I've made for myself over the past few months was my transition from coffee to water. In one of my biggest strides toward self care, drinking more water was high on the list. I found that even after a few cups of coffee, my energy was low and I was constantly reaching for the next cup. It didn't feel healthy, and with the amount of flavoring and creamer I put in, it definitely wasn't doing my body any good. Over the summer, I gifted myself a new water bottle that would keep drinks hot or cold for up to 24 hours (this still blows my mind). For the first few weeks, I didn't use it all that much, but as the summer wore on and the leaves began to change as fall neared, I started using it more and more. When classes began, I told myself that one bottle a day would be enough to keep me hydrated, and slowly aimed toward two. By the time I was drinking two 17oz bottles of water per day, I had cut most of the coffee out of my life and found myself more energized than I had been on two cups of coffee in the morning. The more water I drank, the more refreshed I felt, and longer my brain seemed to function. Drinking more water was working, so I've kept it up ever since. Here are a few more reasons, aside from the natural energy boost, why you should drink water instead of coffee, too:

1. It boosts your metabolism.

For years, people have told me that drinking a cold glass of water soon after you wake up can make or break your day when it comes to metabolism. I kept it in the back of my mind for some time, but I can honestly say, after paying more attention to how much water I'm drinking, it really does seem to help. Don't believe me? Check out this study published on the effects of drinking water on metabolism.

2. Water helps clear out the toxins.

Flush out your organs with a good ol' glass of water...or three. Water helps flush out your kidneys and allows cells to absorb nutrients more efficiently, which ultimately boosts your immune system.

3. It can improve your performance and alertness.

If you're dehydrated, you're much more likely to feel fatigued and distracted. Drinking water can boost your performance and keep you focused on the task at hand.

I've been focusing on drinking more water than anything for almost eight months now, and I have definitely seen a change in my body. I've lost weight, I have a lot more energy, and I find it easier to focus on schoolwork and more. While I did cut coffee for a few months back in the fall, I do still occasionally have a cup or swing by my local Dutch Bros. However, water really seems to give me better energy and without the crash. If you're a coffee addict, or just want to feel a little less fatigued during the day, grab an extra bottle of water before you go to work or school and see how it impacts your day, too. You won't regret it.