How we stay healthy and well

The Down Syndrome Advisory Network (DSAN) helps Down Syndrome Australia to be the leading voice for people with Down syndrome in Australia.

Here, DSAN members from across the country share how they look after their physical and mental wellbeing.

Chris Bunton (NSW)

My parents enrolled me in gymnastics from an early age to improve my fine and gross motor skills. I enjoyed playing on trampolines and foam pits, which helped me build friendships and confidence through fun activities. As I got older, I developed a passion for gymnastics, which kept me active and improved my mental health. Gymnastics has helped me grow both physically and mentally, and through sport, I became the person I am today.

Sandon Overton (TAS)

Physical and mental wellbeing is important to me. I have a personal trainer named Jess and we meet up each week either at her house or at my house. She helps me work on my fitness. We go for walks, ride our bikes and do weights. We even made up a game called Uno Boxing using Uno cards. For my mental wellbeing I cook, play my guitar and sing. I also do yoga and meditation.

Isaiah Caruso (SA)

I like to regularly go to the gym. I go twice a week. I also am very social and have salsa dance practice once a week with Latino Grooves. I will have my first performance soon which I am so excited for. I am also part of a football team, the Goodwood Saints. I love playing football and it’s so much fun to be part of a team. This makes me happy.

Anna Gray (WA) 

My name is Anna and to look after my physical and mental wellbeing I love to stick to my morning routine. This includes doing yoga and doing my skincare routine. I also like doing Pilates, gym, swimming and catching up with my friends and family.

Jack Williamson (VIC)

I work to control my eating and focus on a healthy diet. I do this every day. My tips would be: Try to avoid temptations. Don’t go to buffet restaurants. Avoid the tearoom at work if there is cake. When you are feeling hungry or know there is yummy food in the fridge – distract yourself with other activities. Also, plan some meals for the week that are healthy and have a clear understanding of what the portion should be.

Michael Cox (QLD)

I go to the gym three times a week and go for a run twice a week. This helps me keep fit and healthy
both physically and mentally. I started doing it at a young age, when I had to keep in peak shape to be an international swimmer. Because I’ve been doing it for so long, it’s just become part of my life. It helps to clear my mind, keeps me grounded and helps me to fight towards having a better life.

Annie Lee (ACT)

My tips are, don’t have too much sugar, but some sugar is OK. Stay fit. I go to the gym once a week, and do Zumba 3 times a week. I really like Zumba so it’s easy to keep going. Make sure you are eating your vegetables! I like eating my vegetables and I like fruit as well, I even have smoothies. Make sure you get enough sleep. I like being fit and healthy because it means that I have lots of energy to do the things I love.

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