Lindsey Swanson, Health Programs Manager at SOMN
Mental and physical health are an important part of the Special Olympics mission. We took some time to catch up with Special Olympics Minnesota Health Programs Manager, Lindsey Swanson, to learn about the things she does to lead a healthy life. Read on to learn more about Lindsey!
What is your favorite way to stay active?
Being active is so important to me. I love walking, running, lifting weights, rollerblading, hiking, swimming…I could go on and on!
I also love staying active by playing outside with my stepdaughter and cousins. Exercise doesn’t have to feel like a chore – it can be really fun!
What’s your favorite healthy snack?
Ooh, I have so many favorite snacks! Here are a few I’m really enjoying right now: carrots with almond butter, veggies and hummus, protein shakes, fruit yogurt parfaits.
Lindsey after finishing the Ragnar race from Minneapolis to Duluth
Here’s a great article with some really yummy protein shake recipes. I can’t wait to try some of these out as on-the-go breakfasts and snacks!
What is one way you take care of your mental health?
I try to exercise regularly to keep my mental health in check. And I’m not afraid to seek support when I need it!
What is your favorite part about Special Olympics Minnesota’s health programming?
Hmm…can I say everything?! No, but seriously. I love that we provide Healthy Athletes screenings to so many people with intellectual disabilities across the state. I love that we have a passionate Health Committee who is paving the way in making all our health programming as inclusive as possible. And I love to see the way our health programs change lives!
What is the best part of your job as a Health Programs Manager?
The best part of my job, hands-down, is working directly with athletes, families and partners to build our community to be healthier and stronger every day.
I’m so inspired by the members of this inclusive community and the way that health is a priority in so many people’s lives!
What is something you’re looking forward to this year?
Lindsey and her stepdaughter at “goat yoga”
I’m looking forward to expanding our health programming so that it reaches more people across the state and doing that in the most inclusive and equitable way possible.
Any advice for Special Olympics Minnesota athletes looking to improve their physical or mental health?
My biggest piece of advice is to start small. Building healthy habits is so much easier when you take it one step at a time. Small changes can lead to huge results!
Here’s a good article that talks about how small, daily habits can help you accomplish big goals. You can do it!