Staying Healthy on the Road

By Abbie Stockard, Miss America 2025

Move Daily

My days are usually packed with events and appearances, but I’ve learned that carving out 30 minutes to move my body makes a huge difference in how I feel – physically and mentally. Sometimes it’s a simple walk on the treadmill to clear my head, and other times, if I have a little more time, I love doing a quick strength session with dumbbells.

Prioritize Protein & Take Your Vitamins

Constant travel and jumping between time zones can definitely wear on my immune system and energy levels. That’s why I’ve made high-protein meals and snacks a priority. I’ve noticed such a big difference – not just in how energized I feel, but in how strong and steady I stay throughout the day. At this point, it’s pretty much a guarantee that you’ll see me walking through the airport with a protein shake in hand. It’s one of my travel must-haves!

Stay Hydrated

With all the travel and appearances, it’s easy to forget the basics—like drinking enough water. But staying hydrated has made a huge difference in my energy, skin, and overall wellness. I always keep a water bottle with me on the go, and I aim to sip throughout the day—even during long flights or back-to-back events.

Stick to a Sleep Routine:

Late nights are definitely tempting – especially when I’m catching up on messages, scrolling through social media, or winding down after a long day of appearances. But I’ve realized that sacrificing sleep quickly takes a toll on my energy, focus, and overall well-being. I’ve had to become really disciplined about setting a bedtime and sticking to it, aiming for 7-9 hours of rest each night. When I prioritize sleep, I wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to take on a full day.

Protect Your Peace

One of the most meaningful habits I’ve developed this year is giving myself at least 30 minutes each morning for quiet time. Whether that’s journaling, reading, praying, or just sitting in stillness, it helps me ground myself and mentally prepare for whatever the day holds. It’s so easy to wake up and jump right into a busy schedule, but I’ve learned that I show up as my best self when I take time to center my heart first. On days when I can, I love to pair that time with a long, peaceful walk – especially when I’m in a safe area. It’s one of my favorite ways to reset, and just breathe. That time has become essential to my well-being and a reminder that taking care of myself mentally is just as important as anything else on my schedule.

Prioritizing my health on the road hasn’t always been easy. Some days it feels like there just aren’t enough hours. But I’ve learned that when I take the time to care for my body, mind, and spirit, I feel more grounded, more present, and more capable of being intentional with others. This year has taught me that health isn’t just about checking off boxes – it’s about creating habits that help me feel my best, even in the busiest seasons. At the end of the day, that’s what this journey is all about: being the best version of myself so I can give my best to those around me.