Mental Health Awareness Week

The theme of Mental Awareness Week 2021 is nature, and what better way to immerse yourself in nature than a bike ride.  It really is possible to pedal your way to a healthier body, mind and soul.

In today’s stressful working environment, it is important to relax your mind and take a break from the daily hustle and bustle that causes stress. From work to family issues, the list of daily anxieties goes on and on and can start to build up. Cycling is an excellent way to stay on top of those common stresses.

At its core cycling has so many neurological benefits - but just how does it all work? Well a good ride out nurtures your brain with increased blood supply,  improving circulation of oxygen and nutrients, this in turn improves brain performance helping our brain cells to grow, becoming healthier and stronger. Cycling also increases the formation of BDNF, a protein responsible for generating new brain cells, meaning people who ride long and strong are less susceptible to age-related brain disorders.

Getting on your bike every day also helps to stimulate the hippocampus, the brain’s core, (who knew!)  improving memory, and increasing levels of serotonin - everyone’s favourite happy hormone!

By increasing blood flow to your brain, cycling can boost self-esteem and confidence making you feel more positive, reducing stress and anxiety, plus we are more likely to get a better night’s sleep.  

But perhaps the most important benefit of cycling is the opportunity to harmonise with yourself; giving your brain something to focus on, distracting your racing mind, calming intrusive thoughts, zoning out, mindfulness, listening to your breath - that moment of solitude can be your most valuable moment of the day! 

BIKE-DROP is committed to supporting active travel in London providing safe and secure bike parking. Whether you choose to cycle to get fit, for work, a shopping trip or socialising BIKE-DROP takes the stress out of finding somewhere to park. Never has it been more important to look after our mental health so let us help you redefine your journey

THE CREW @ BIKE-DROP