Cycling and the Science of Happiness
I always talk about “Loving Life on and off the Bike”, but do you think it’s easier to be happy in all areas because of the fact that we ride bicycles?
I came across an article last week called The Science Behind Why Cycling Makes Us Happier, and it sparked me to relate this to our Loving the Bike tagline. Yeah, some interesting and positive stuff….perfect for #MakeitHappen Monday.
You can read the article if you like, but it basically says that cycling helps make your overall life happier because:
- It saves you from the stress of driving
- Saves you money
- It gives you energy
- Riding a bike helps you sleep better
- It improves your skin
- It allows you to inhale less pollution
- Cycling promotes brain health
- It makes your heart stronger
Hey, you can’t mess with science right? I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…..I believe that all the world’s problems would be solved if everyone rode a bike. Ride Your Bike. Spread the Love for Cycling. #MakeitHappen.
Photo c/o wheelbrothers.com
I am finally seriously riding again and I cannot tell you how great it feels to be back on the road. There is no doubt that riding for me has an impact on my happiness. It is not anything in particular that I can put a finger on typical, but you list does an awesome job of that.
Hope you are well my friend.
It’s great to hear that you’re back on the bike. Can you believe we’ve never ridden together? Hope that happens one day soon, Eric.
Most people in my family think I am either A: crazy for riding my bike, or 2: selfish for spending time on exercise. While I do not commute by bike, I definitely feel like I have more energy. Not sure if it helps with my sleep, but I am certain it helps with my heart health as well as my general health. In the four years that I have been back on the bike, I can remember only once or twice being sick.
But it takes sacrifice in many ways. Sacrifice in what you eat, sacrifice in the other activities you get to do (If you have a family, there is no way you are going on a century ride and play 18 holes in the same weekend) Sacrifice in the amount of time you spend with your family. But that time is much better quality because you can be more present with those who are important to you.
Until you can actually feel the difference, people stand in disbelief. Call you crazy. Say, that is not for me. I don’t want to be one of those silly looking cyclists.
The beauty of cycling is that it can be anything you want it to be. Don’t like lycra, ride barefoot in only your surf shorts. You still get the same benefits. The real “magic” is realized when you feel the happiness and joy that cycling brings to all of us. (feel free to replace the word “magic” with science or new age hippie belief system, or university study, the result is the same.)
Hey Clive, great to hear from you. It’s so nice to hear that you’re back on the bike and blogging again. Be sure to keep in touch and let me know how it’s going. Man, I’d still love to get over there one day and ride with you.
Darryl
I forgot to say how brilliant the bullet points above are. Very apt for me & my commute!
https://massivemtber.wordpress.com/
Cheers
Clive
Hi Darryl,
Long time no speak! I’m still reading your great site, but now I’m back blogging & again on my old site http://massive their.wordpress.com along with back to losing weight again via a bike commute, I’m back along the canal again in a car free environment!
Happy pedalling!
Cheers
Clive