Words // Abbi Hamlin

The holiday season is here! It’s a time filled with joy, connection, and indulgent meals—but for active women like us, it can also feel a bit overwhelming. Between holiday parties, family gatherings, and packed schedules, keeping up with nourishing nutrition can sometimes take a back seat.

But here’s the thing: food is more than fuel—it’s about nourishment and enjoyment. It’s possible to savor the season while still supporting your body for all the miles, powder days, and adventures ahead. Let’s talk about how. Here are just a few helpful tips that can help you stay on track during the busy holiday season.

1. Focus on Nourishing, Delicious Foods

The holidays often come with a mindset of “all or nothing”—either we’re “on track” or completely off the rails. But what if we reframed that? Instead of thinking about restricting, focus on adding nutrient-dense foods that also feel indulgent.

• Incorporate seasonal ingredients: Roasted root vegetables, hearty soups, and spiced holiday teas can be comforting and nutrient-packed.
• Add protein: Whether you’re at a holiday feast or meal prepping, prioritize lean proteins like turkey, salmon, or plant-based options to keep your energy stable.
• Don’t forget healthy fats: Avocado, nuts, and olive oil are great for brain health and recovery after workouts.

2. Keep It Simple and Prepare Ahead

Between family time and your favorite outdoor activities, it’s easy to put nutrition on the back burner. That’s where preparation saves the day.

• Batch cook: At the start of the week, spend an hour or two making a big batch of your favorite dishes—think roasted veggies, quinoa, or a hearty soup.
• Have grab-and-go snacks ready: focus on having high protein healthy snacks prepped and ready to go in the fridge
• Use leftovers creatively: Repurpose turkey into tacos, cranberry sauce into oatmeal toppings, or roasted veggies into frittatas.

If you need inspiration, check out the recipe ebook attached to this post! It’s packed with simple, delicious ideas to help you stay nourished, including a few that feel perfect for the holidays.

3. Look for high quality ingredients

The holidays are meant to be enjoyed! Spend time with family and friends and nourish your soul and your body. I believe it is possible to create delish treats with whole food ingredients.

• Bake at home: a homemade cookie or dessert ensures you know everything that goes into it. You can opt for organic and high quality ingredients that your body recognizes as fuel. This will leave you feeling better and fueled/ready to get after it.
• Celebrate progress, not perfection: Your goal isn’t to eat perfectly; it’s to nourish your body and mind so you can keep doing what you love.

4. Keep Your Energy Up for Adventures

• Whether you’re braving snowy trails on your Juliana bike or layering up for a winter hike, proper nutrition helps you make the most of your adventures.
• To help control blood sugar: Start your day with a protein-rich meal like eggs & veggies or overnight oats with nut butter or a veggie-packed scramble.
• Hydrate: It’s easy to forget hydration when it’s cold, but it’s just as important in the winter! Herbal teas, broths, and infused water count, too.