One of the most unsung benefits of cycling (whether it be for transportation, recreation, or general wellness) is the noticeable boost it provides to your mental well-being. This feeling is akin to a cleared-headed meditative state … the same state of mental flow that is often described as a pleasurable feeling of awareness.

Yoga and meditation are two of the more subtle and sublime forms of restructuring the mind for creativity and relaxation, but the low impact exertion of cycling (especially at an “aware” speed) can help break the ongoing internal commentary that often hinders mental processes.

Like many physical activities, the process of clearing the mind is similar to clearing the palate. Once the mind is “cleared” it is far better equipped to absorb the information at-hand, or attend to the creative processes.

So next time you are on a routine ride, give this simple cycling mediation a try:

• For each pedal revolution (or for each pedal stroke if you are really daring), internally say the word “circle”.
• Work towards moving your legs to “circle” throughout the entire pedal stroke.
• See how long you can maintain this without allowing other thoughts into your mind.
• Once you are comfortable with that, try just signaling your muscles to “circle”.
• And once you are like Mr. Miyagi, don’t do anything other than cruise along in complete awareness.

It has been our experience that this somewhat silly exercise is actually pretty effective. Once you are to the level of just focusing you energies to signal your muscles, you feel a little more “in tune” with the bike, the body, and the surroundings.