It is easy to get stressed out by the news and conflict happening in our world. It’s also important to know what’s going on, and express our views. So what can we do to manage our physical and mental health when the state of the world threatens to make us want to hide under a rock and doom scroll all day? You know what helps, it’s right there in the title. When we can’t perform at our best, or maybe even think clearly, it’s time to take a break and get outside if you can. Breathing deeply in the fresh air and working your body can give you a better perspective while you re-set. I know not everyone is a fan of winter cycling (!) From my Strava feed I see many riding on their home trainers and that helps, too. For those that can’t wrap their head around cycling in these temperatures, remember, there is no bad weather, only bad clothing. There may be a learning curve until you get it just right, and you need to expect to be chilly the first ten minutes until your heater kicks in. And the streets? There are studded tires for that. You can get a second wheel set, it doesn’t have to be a super expensive one. Put some studded tires on it, and swap them out when the streets are slick. Remember to keep the drive train well oiled and wiped down after use.
The second Friday of February, 2-13 this year, is Winter Bike To Work Day (their website is not updated). I’m unaware of events being sponsored here in Lincoln, yet, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get in the spirit. People around the world love being outdoors on a bike, even in winter. Biking enthusiasts in places like Ft. Collins, Boulder, and other Colorado cities, take the opportunity every year to celebrate. Others, such as in Madison WS, Seattle, WA, and even Mississagua, Ontario, join in. Minneapolis is understandably not celebrating this year, to my knowledge. Our thoughts are with them.
If you live in a climate such as ours, it’s best to find a way to enjoy being out in it. One way is to find others who like to be out in it, too.
Would you like to help grow cycling in Lincoln by getting more people to ride, and ride more often? We’re still accepting applications for new board members until March 9. Winter cycling enthusiasm is not required, but you may find it infectious.