The Great Outdoors

Many of us spend the bulk of our time enclosed by buildings and cars. A great benefit of cycling is that it gets us outside.



When I am cycling I enjoy seeing the sky and the far distances. Even within the confines of my city, I can see down the length of a busy street or up to whatever of the sky can be seen between the building tops. Being outside imparts a feeling of freedom and escape, of expanded horizons. In a car or building I feel disconnected from my surroundings, seeing and hearing the world through panes of glass.



It is refreshing to be away from temperature-controlled air. Spending some time cycling outside, where the temperature isn't always 21 degrees, is a good way to add diversity of experience to your day. Also, it is good to breathe the relatively cleaner outside air rather than the stale, canned air we spend so much time in. Remember that when you are indoors, you are usually exposed to higher levels of pollutants than when you are outside, even in cities.



Another benefit of cycling can be exposure to the sun. Consider yourself lucky if you are able to go riding on a sunny day. Apart from triggering the production of vitamin D, with all its reputed health benefits, a little sun can do wonders for your mood. (Of course there is such a thing as too much sun. Always cover up or use sunscreen if you feel your skin is burning.)



I love being outside when the weather is pleasant, but I also enjoy cycling in the winter. If I'm dressed appropriately, except for on the frostiest of days, the cold will be bearable. I always feel quite warm after I have been cycling for a few minutes and have built up some body heat. And if I am feeling the chill, I know that my ride will soon end and I'll be able to get inside.



So, get outside on your bike; your mind and body will thank you.