Pedal Away the Funk
On and off for the past month (maybe more) I’ve been in a bit of a funk, and if it wasn’t for the bike I’m not sure what sort of state I would currently be in. It’s all be based on some self-induced stress, and the resulting condition has been a clouded mind and slight lack of spark.
But because I’ve been able to consistently get out on my bike, I have been able to put the world away for a portion of most days…losing myself and finding myself while out for a ride. It really has been my saviour and allowed me to keep from falling into a major funk. The bike allows me to take a break from reality, clear my mind, and re-generate my soul. I can’t think of anything else that I can lean on to do all of this plus condition my body, all at the same time.
I’ve been pedaling myself out of the funk, but then jumping right back into it. It’s a vicious circle that I need to get out of, but I’m thankful for my bike and it’s ability to keep dragging the funk out each time.
It’s Monday….well, actually it is Make it Happen Monday. Each week and each day brings with it new opportunities and a clean slate to create anything you desire. If you’ve been in a funk like I have, today is the day to take things by the handlebars and pedal your way out.
If you are at work and not able to just put the world aside for a minute and get out on your bike, here is what I recommend. I want you to go right now and talk to your boss….tell him you need to take a personal day and that you will come back to work being more productive and amazing than if you stay where you are for the rest of the day. Tell the boss that Dr. Lovingthebike prescribed for you to do this….doctor’s orders.
Go home, get on your bike and ride. No agenda. No distance or average time in mind. Just ride. Go as far as you need to go in order to blow out all the funk inside you. This is a total win-win-win remedy that will make you, your boss and fellow employees, and your Family feel better.
The doctor is out….on his bike.
It is so true that cycling does this for you. For me anyway. There just is nothing like getting out on the rode, pushing a little bit and watching the scenery fly by. I love it. It is the perfect prescription, as you have said so well above.
I haven’t been on my bike since Saturday. No wonder I’m in a funk. Ugh. Unfortunately, I don’t see anytime before Saturday to ride. I’m more than ready.
Hang in there and I know you’ll really enjoy that ride on Saturday. Thanks for your comment.
Darryl,
I also get in a “Funk” from time to time, we all do. Getting on my bike will 99.9% of the time get me right out of it. Just getting outdoors and seeing what the world has to offer if in the form of scenery or just the exercise is usually all I need. Plus, seeing most of the same people who will always wave, smile and say hi as I ride by. Some people will honk and wave, not exactly who they all are, but they are atleast being friendly.
Darryl,
Ironic that I have been in a funk for about two weeks myself and I find my bike is a perfect way to zone out. No matter how frustrated I get or how mad I might be – doing intervals on the bike leaves me no energy to be mad anymore. I try to live life – “When I am 90, will I really care?” trying to take a long term perspective but sometimes short term aggravation is best handled simply by turning the pedals. I turned 45 miles Sunday in just over 2 hours and it felt like 10 minutes – but I slept fantastic and just what the doctor ordered!
I hear you, Matt…..thanks for your comments. We are very lucky to have the bike to go to in times like this. I like your idea of looking at things in the long term perspective….I’ll try that for sure.
Okay, I think I’ll give this a go tomorrow.
Cool, let me know how it goes. I know it’s a good thing for everyone involved.
I know that I always feel better following a good bike ride and there is nothing better to get rid of the stress. The combination of endorphine release, pushing my limits, and being outside help to make that occur. In short, I am with you on your thoughts and dr’s orders.
You know it, Jeremy. Thanks for your comments.
Nice on dr. lovingthebike.
Thanks Eric….glad you liked it.
This is a wonderful prescription. I don’t need to take advantage of it right now but I will use it when needed. What a nice post.
Awesome….I appreciate your comments, Stacey. Hopefully you won’t need the prescription….but will still spend tons of time on your bike.
Dr. Reasons2Ride seconds this prescription. The only thing I’d add is bomb down a hill as fast as you dare! Malachi, any chance you can rent a bike and ride after work?
Thanks Joel….yeah, going full out down the hill is a good addition as well.
I was just home over the weekend for a ride. I was reminded of what I had to do for work. Today I go on the road, doing a job that comprises my morals, sanity and health. My weekend ride reminded me that there is more to it than money and I’ve got to get out of here. The sooner the better! Too bad it’ll be Friday before my next ride.
I hear you loud and clear, Malachi. Lifestyle always wins out over anything else…in my opinion, anyway.