Tag: bicycles

12/04/23 Biking & Listening

Here’s today’s bike ride metrics. Temperature at beginning of ride: 52 degrees. Clear blue skies; a little windy.

Photos from today’s ride:

None.

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.

Please watch

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:

NON-FICTION

20 Master Plots: And How to Build Them, by Ronald B. Tobias

Give your story a solid foundation – a plot that engages readers from start to finish!

The best stories linger in the hearts and minds of readers for decades. These tales gain their power through plots that connect with the audience on both an emotional and intellectual level.

Ronald B. Tobias details these 20 time-tested plots. Each is discussed and analyzed, illustrating how a successful plot integrates all the elements of a story. Tobias then reveals how to use these plots effectively in your own work.

Tobias then goes to the next level, describing how to choose and develop plot in fiction. He reveals how to craft plot for any subject matter so that you develop your work evenly and effectively. As a result, your fiction will be more cohesive and convincing, making your story unforgettable for readers everywhere.

Blinkist book summaries:

None today.

FICTION

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!

Podcasts:

None today.

Waking Up app series/courses:

None today.

Here’s a few photos from previous riding adventures:

12/03/23 Biking & Listening

Here’s today’s bike ride metrics. Temperature at beginning of ride: 62 degrees. Clear blue skies.

Photos from today’s ride:

None.

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.

Please watch

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:

12/02/23 Biking & Listening

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.

Please watch

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:

12/01/23 Biking & Listening

Here’s today’s bike ride metrics. Temperature at beginning of ride: 52 degrees. Cloudy and a slight drizzle. Wind calm.

Photos from today’s ride:

New helmet cover.

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:

Improves Sleep Quality:

Cycling can have a significant positive impact on sleep quality. Here’s how this activity helps in enhancing the quality of rest:

  • Physical Exhaustion Leads to Better Sleep: Regular cycling, especially when done at a moderate to high intensity, can lead to physical tiredness, which can help you fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper sleep. Physical activity, like cycling, uses energy and promotes the need for restorative sleep.
  • Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Cycling’s ability to reduce stress and anxiety can have a direct impact on sleep quality. High stress and anxiety levels are known to disrupt sleep patterns. By alleviating these issues, cycling can facilitate a more relaxed state conducive to good sleep.
  • Balances Circadian Rhythms: Exposure to natural light during outdoor cycling helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythms (the internal body clock that controls sleep-wake cycles). Regular exposure to daylight, particularly in the morning, can help normalize sleep patterns.
  • Reduces Sleep Apnea and Insomnia: Regular physical activities like cycling can reduce symptoms of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea and insomnia. By improving cardiovascular health and reducing weight, cycling can lead to more regular breathing patterns and a reduction in sleep disturbances.
  • Increases Deep Sleep: Exercise such as cycling increases the time spent in deep sleep, the most physically restorative sleep phase. Deep sleep helps to bolster the immune system, supports cardiac health, and controls stress and anxiety.
  • Regulates Body Temperature: Post-exercise drop in body temperature can help to facilitate sleep. After cycling, as the body’s temperature gradually lowers, it can signal the body that it’s time to sleep.
  • Improves Mental Health: Given cycling’s benefits for mental health, including the reduction of symptoms of depression and anxiety, it can indirectly contribute to better sleep. Good mental health is a key component in achieving quality sleep.
  • Lifestyle Regulation: Regular cyclists often adopt healthier lifestyles, including better diet and sleep routines. A healthier overall lifestyle contributes to improved sleep quality.
  • Relieves Chronic Pain: For individuals suffering from chronic pain, cycling’s role in pain reduction can lead to improved sleep. Pain is a common cause of disrupted sleep, and by alleviating pain, cycling can contribute to more restful nights.
  • Enhances Relaxation: Cycling, particularly at a moderate intensity, can be quite relaxing. This relaxation effect can extend into the evening, helping to prepare the body and mind for sleep.
  • Boosts Sleep-promoting Hormones: Physical activity like cycling can increase the production of sleep-promoting hormones like melatonin, especially when done in natural light. Melatonin is a key hormone in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.

In conclusion, cycling can be an effective way to improve sleep quality through a combination of physical exertion, reduction in mental health symptoms, regulation of biological rhythms, and promotion of a healthier lifestyle. Good quality sleep is essential for overall health and well-being, and cycling can play a crucial role in achieving this.

Please watch

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:

Emotional Intelligence, by Daniel Goleman.

Podcasts:

Waking Up app series/courses:

None today.

Here’s a few photos from previous riding adventures: