Stay Slope-Strong: How Hormones Help You Thrive Through Ski Season
At Aura Vida Health & Wellness here in Park City, we notice a common trend every winter — women who normally feel energized start to experience fatigue, stubborn weight changes, or that mid-afternoon brain fog. Shorter days and colder weather aren’t the only culprits — hormones often play a key role in feeling truly winter-ready on and off the slopes.
Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism, mood, and body temperature, so even a mild imbalance can leave you feeling sluggish, mentally foggy, or just “off.” Many people aren’t fully optimized at baseline, and these subtle deficiencies often become more noticeable in the winter — showing up as slower metabolism, dry skin, brittle nails, or hair thinning. Other hormones, like progesterone and testosterone, also influence mood, muscle tone, and motivation, which can make it harder to feel your best both on and off the slopes.
The good news? Small, actionable habits can make a measurable difference. Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night, which research shows supports insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health¹. Include lean protein at each meal — about 20–30 grams per sitting — to help preserve muscle, support metabolism, and stabilize energy. Allowing recovery days between workouts or ski sessions helps your body maintain strength and endurance. While we’re naturally biased toward deep dives with lab testing and personalized hormone optimization, these simple steps are something anyone can start doing on their own.
Being “winter-ready” isn’t just about waxing your skis — it’s about tuning your body from the inside out, giving yourself the energy, resilience, and vitality to fully enjoy the season.
References / Further Reading
- Spaeth, A. M., Dinges, D. F., & Goel, N. (2023). Effect of sleep restriction on insulin sensitivity and energy metabolism in postmenopausal women: A randomized crossover trial. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 108(2), e123–e132. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36998155/
