The Art of Cycling and Depression

There is a free spirit that comes out in most of us as we hop on a bike. We may not even be cyclist, triathlete, or one who even enjoys exercise, but a bike gives a sense of freedom to the one who is in control.

This summer during our European vacation in various cities and overall European bike culture I became obsessed with taking pictures of bikes in every town. The picture here is from Amsterdam.

(Image: Lantz Howard)

This small obsession has been one aspect of a dream that has been cultivating in my head and heart. Recently I have been riding this wave of ups and downs for various reason. I can either let my mood get the best of me or I can try to process my inner feelings.

For me hoping on my bike allows me to experience a brief sense of freedom, but it also allows me to process my emotions. There is research that states that 20-30 minutes of aerobic exercise can lead to numerous aspect for one's mental health, including depression. Most of us know that working out makes us feel better, but many of us struggle with a consistent routine.

Find the joy and freedom of getting on a bike and make this time intentional with processing your emotions. You may find the bike to beneficial like many Europeans have done for years.