Are You Emotionally Dehydrated? Running on Empty in Marriage

In this episode (Doing Marriage Well — August 24, 2026), Paul uses physical dehydration as a metaphor for emotional dryness in marriage. He explains how our bodies — and our relationships — can stop signaling needs as we age, and why early passion can mask declining attention to what truly sustains connection. Paul invites listeners to examine whether they or their spouse have lost the “thirst” for what they need—more touch, conversation, or care—and encourages intentional replenishment so marriage doesn’t run on empty. Practical water-intake guidance and a link to more resources are noted in the show notes. A note on water intake: Healthy men living in normal circumstances need 15.5 cups (3.7 litres) of fluid a day. For women it’s 11.5 cups (2.7 litres). Normally about 20% of this intake comes from food, leaving a daily beverage goal of roughly 13 cups (3 L) for men and 9 cups (2.1 L) for women. For more, see Water: How much should you drink every day?