It is a known fact that physical activity benefits physical health, making us stronger, fitter, and disease-resistant, and it also contributes to mental health. Sedentary work positions are taking a toll on our bodies and minds, making it challenging to commit to physical activity, usually under the excuse that we don’t have enough time or financial means.
However, some activities, aside from being affordable, are also great to combine with everyday obligations like going to work. One is cycling.
How Cycling Benefits Your Mental Health
Here’s why you should consider it:
Cycling Is a Stress Reliever
Soon after you incorporate cycling into your daily routines, you’ll see how coping with stress becomes easier. That’s because an aerobic activity like riding a bike decreases cortisol levels, also known as a stress hormone. Cycling itself will not make your worries go away, but it will help you see and approach them with a (re)fresh(ed) perspective.
Riding a Bike Helps Ease the Symptoms of Anxiety and Depression
Cycling allows you to spend time outdoors, breathe fresh air, and soak up the sunlight. It is also a reason to spend time in a nearby park or head to the woods, surrendering to Mother Nature’s beauties. All these combined will promote the activation of feel-good hormones like dopamine and endorphins, decreasing the tension that usually results in feeling anxious.
Additionally, cycling, like other low-impact aerobic activities, eases the symptoms of depression. People who suffer from this condition often find it challenging to engage in any activity. So, riding a bike and getting from one point to another improves one’s sense of achievement, which can serve as a motivation booster.
It is critical to remember that physical activity is just one tool, not a substitute for medications and therapies prescribed by a specialized health care provider.
Cycling Improves the Quality of Sleep
Choosing to pedal regularly will have a positive impact on your night’s sleep. As with every physical activity, it will make you physically tired but mentally energized as cortisol levels go down and endorphins and dopamine go up, which will help you fall asleep more easily.
Pedaling to Mindfulness
Cycling is an excellent way to practice mindfulness and clear your mind. The time on the bike allows you to ”forget” everything that stresses you out and focus on balance, pedaling, and surroundings.
You have the rest of the day to resolve the problems and complete professional and private tasks; use those minutes on the bike to just enjoy the moment.
Bike Rides to Higher Self-Esteem
Committing to cycling will show on your body. Depending on the goal, it can help you lose or maintain weight and build muscle. Such results propel feeling good about yourself. The other thing is the sense of achievement that will also contribute to your physical appearance and self-worth.
Cycling Is Eco-Friendly and Cost-Effective
Everything we do in life, the values we adopt, and the actions we take contribute to our well-being. Cycling to work instead of driving not only saves money on gas but also promotes eco-responsible practices.
How to Make Cycling a Routine
Consider these few tips for a safe and enjoyable cycling experience.
Gear up
The first step is to purchase a bike. You can also borrow one from a friend or a family member who doesn’t use it. If you don’t have an extensive budget, look for second-hand options. You can find good offers.
There’s no such thing as a one-size-fits-all when it comes to bikes. Luckily, the new models are highly adjustable and suitable for different preferences. Finding the right bike takes time, but it is worth investing in as it is supposed to serve you more than one season.
Aside from a bike, consider purchasing bright-colored clothes to help you get noticed in traffic. And, of course, never cycle without a helmet.
Set Achievable Goals
Every distance matters. Set goals, but don’t pressure yourself to achieve them on the first ride.
Take regular breaks and choose less demanding terrain in the beginning. The more you cycle, the stronger you’ll become in conquering longer routes.
Find a Cycling Buddy
Many activities are more fun when done in a pair or a group. Surrounding yourself with people who are also on a path to making cycling a routine will keep you motivated and increase your sense of belonging, positively impacting your well-being.
Less stress, better sleep, a fit body, and a clear mind, everything cycling brings. Let’s take out our bikes and hit the road.