Here’s today’s bike ride metrics. Temperature at beginning of ride: 62 degrees. Rain. Wind calm.
Photos from today’s ride:
Why I ride:
Biking is something I both love and hate. The conflicting emotions arise from the undeniable physical effort it demands. However, this exertion is precisely what makes it an excellent form of exercise. Most days, I dedicate over an hour to my cycling routine, and in doing so, I’ve discovered a unique opportunity to enjoy a good book or podcast. The rhythmic pedaling and the wind against my face create a calming backdrop that allows me to fully immerse myself in the content. In these moments, the time spent on the bike seems worthwhile, as I can’t help but appreciate the mental and physical rewards it offers.
I especially like having ridden. The post-biking feeling is one of pure satisfaction. The endorphin rush, coupled with a sense of accomplishment, makes the initial struggle and fatigue worthwhile. As I dismount and catch my breath, I relish the sensation of having conquered the challenge, both physically and mentally. It’s a reminder that the things we sometimes love to hate can often be the ones that bring us the most fulfillment. In the end, the love-hate relationship with biking only deepens my appreciation for the sport, as it continually pushes me to overcome my own limitations and embrace the rewards that follow the effort.
Why you should ride:
Encourages Relaxation:
Cycling is not just a form of physical exercise; it also has a profound ability to encourage relaxation. Here are various ways in which cycling contributes to a relaxed state of mind and body:
- Physical Activity and Stress Reduction: Engaging in physical activities like cycling can reduce the body’s stress responses. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators, which promote relaxation. The physical effort of cycling also helps to use up the energy created by stress, aiding in calming the body.
- Rhythmic Pedaling as a Meditative Practice: The repetitive nature of cycling, with its steady, rhythmic pedaling, can have a meditative effect. This rhythmic motion can help focus the mind, drawing attention away from stressful thoughts and allowing a sense of calm.
- Outdoor and Nature Exposure: Cycling outdoors, especially in natural or scenic settings, can enhance relaxation. Being in nature is known to reduce stress and promote a sense of peace. The sights, sounds, and smells of the outdoors can be very soothing.
- Mindfulness and Presence: Cycling requires a level of present-moment awareness, which is a key aspect of mindfulness. Practicing mindfulness has been shown to reduce stress and promote relaxation. When cycling, the focus on the immediate environment and bodily sensations can help achieve this state.
- Cardiovascular Health Benefits: Regular cycling improves cardiovascular health, which can help in reducing tension in the body. A healthier heart and circulatory system can contribute to a more relaxed state overall.
- Reduces Mental Clutter: A bike ride offers a break from daily routines and responsibilities, providing an opportunity to clear the mind. This mental break can be refreshing and relaxing, especially after a long day or during stressful periods.
- Social Relaxation: For those who enjoy group rides, the social aspect of cycling can be relaxing. Social interactions and the sense of community found in cycling groups can contribute to overall relaxation and well-being.
- Achievement and Satisfaction: Completing a challenging ride or reaching a cycling goal can bring about a sense of achievement and satisfaction. This positive feeling can promote a relaxed state, as it counters feelings of stress and anxiety.
- End of Ride Relaxation Response: After a cycling session, the body often experiences a natural relaxation response. The decrease in physical activity coupled with the sense of accomplishment can lead to a profound state of relaxation.
- Improves Sleep Quality: As cycling improves sleep quality, it indirectly promotes relaxation. Better sleep means the body is better rested and more capable of handling stress, leading to a more relaxed state during waking hours.
In summary, cycling’s ability to encourage relaxation is multifaceted, combining physical, mental, and emotional elements. By incorporating regular cycling into one’s lifestyle, it’s possible to cultivate a more relaxed state of being, beneficial for overall health and well-being.
Here’s a couple of links to groups I like. Hopefully, they’ll encourage you to start riding a bike, no matter your age.
Cycling for those aged 70+(opens in a new tab)
Solitary Cycling(opens in a new tab)
My bike:
A Rockhopper by Specialized. I purchased it November 2021 from Venture Out in Guntersville; Mike is top notch! So is the bike. The ‘old’ man seat was salvaged from an old Walmart bike. Seat replaced with new one from Venture Out.
What I’m listening to:
Novel:
Amazon abstract:
NATIONAL BESTSELLER • The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series continues: Lisbeth Salander must face the most important battle of her life, and will finally put her past to rest in this thriller that will “leave Salander’s legion of followers clamoring for more” (The Wall Street Journal). • Also known as the Millennium series
Mikael Blomkvist is trying to reach Lisbeth Salander—the fierce, unstoppable girl with the dragon tattoo. He needs her help unraveling the identity of a man who died with Blomkvist’s phone number in his pocket—a man who does not exist in any official records and whose garbled last words hinted at knowledge that would be dangerous to important people. But Lisbeth has disappeared. She’s sold her apartment in Stockholm. She’s gone dark. She’s told no one where she is. And no one is aware that at long last she’s got her primal enemy, her twin sister, Camilla, squarely in her sights.
Look for the latest book in the Girl with the Dragon Tattoo series, The Girl in the Eagle’s Talons, coming soon!
Blinkist nonfiction book summaries:
None today.
Podcasts:
Waking Up app series/courses:
None today.
Here’s a few photos from previous riding adventures:
The Pencil Driven Life 