Life can be tough sometimes. Maybe it’s a sudden loss that can leave us feeling rocked or the grind of just getting by can deplete our ‘lust for life’.
What can we do to regain our buzz, mojo… the joy of being? Mountain biking!
Yep, your trusty bike is not just good for your physical health, it’s also great for your mental well-being! If you’re feeling stressed, anxious, or just need a little break from the daily ‘same-old-same-old, then it’s time to hit the trails.
Get your gear and your bike and get out there either to your favourite trails or head off to somewhere new it all feeds into our sense of adventure. When you’re out on the trails, you never know what you’re going to encounter. Will you come across a gnarly rock garden or a fast flow, jumps, drops or any number of obstacles to defeat? Will you have to navigate a steep descent or a tricky switchback? The unpredictability of it all is part of the fun, and it keeps you on your toes (and your wheels).
But it’s not just the thrill of the ride that’s good for your mental health. There’s also the sense of accomplishment that comes with conquering a tough climb or tackling a technical section of trail. The feeling of “I did it!” is incredibly satisfying, and it can give you a boost of confidence and self-esteem, which stays with you long into your working week.
Then there’s the simple act of being outside. Fresh air, sunshine, (or more likely rain) and the beauty of nature are all incredibly good for your mental/emotional balance and well-being. Whether you’re railing through a forest or climbing up a mountain, you’re surrounded by natural beauty that’s sure to put a smile on your face.
All of this on your own is fantastic… but just add friends and Mountain biking becomes a social super boost.
It is a great way to spend time with friends and family, and the camaraderie that comes with hitting the trails together is truly special. On the climbs, we can and indeed should spend a few minutes chatting about things -just anything… I know that may sound weird. But your mate who is always full of jokes and laughing may we’ll be masking pain, worry or sadness he doesn’t know how to express. Make room for serious topics and feel the stress of them slip away from you as you turn the bike back down the hill. Riding can be great therapy and mates can become friends. Don’t be afraid to ask are you ok?
Another great plus is, if you’re riding with someone faster than you, it’s a good incentive to push yourself to go faster and become better, but if you are the faster rider you have the sense of happiness that comes from helping someone else improve. The old saying is true ‘helping makes you happy. ’
Mountain biking is a great way to improve your physical health, but it’s also a fantastic way to boost your mental well-being, get over the troubles that this world dumps on you and cement friendships which last long after the bikes gave been put away. So, grab your bike, hit the trails, and go get your mojo back!
