A new month and a new theme in our 5 Ways to Better Wellbeing series. This #TimeToTalkThursday we introduce the theme “Be Active”, which we will focus on throughout May.
“Being active isn’t just good for our physical health; it’s also proven to have a positive effect on our mental health and wellbeing” (SAMH).
Whether you use your bike for commuting, club activity, racing, riding solo or with family and friends, cycling is a great way to benefit not only our physical health, but our mental health and wellbeing too. #BikeAndBlether rides are designed to deliver these health benefits, whilst creating a culture of inclusivity in cycling.
Our Mental Wellbeing Champions from around the Scottish Cycling club network are supporting people to join their #BikeAndBlether rides on the roads and trails, feel supported, and share in their love of cycling.
Recently Colin, one of the #BikeAndBlether Mental Wellbeing Champions, organised a ride for some of the staff from SAMH in the beautiful Invertrossachs area. Here’s what they had to say:
"Colin's bike and blether session was brilliant. From the moment I arrived until the moment I left I felt welcomed and valued. Colin very naturally creates the feeling of a safe environment that I was happy to connect and be open in. His passion for mental health and wellbeing is evident. He does a great job of supporting the concept of using cycling (Physical Activity & Sport) to protect our Mental Health and Wellbeing but also as a space to talk and connect."
While another rider added:
"Colin made me feel so welcome form the first time we met. I loved the ride and felt supported throughout. Colin was great at pitching his training at the right level and directing it individually at the different skill levels.
"He made us all feel safe and supported from the outset and even taught me basic bike info that I had forgotten after riding for over 45 years! He also got me standing up on my pedals and feeling safe to do it even though I had previously resisted! Colin worked hard to chat and connect with everyone on the ride, which made the ride even more fun and pleasurable. A perfect Friday!"
This month sees Mental Health Awareness Week from 15th to 21st May. We would love for more clubs to get involved with #BikeAndBlether and would encourage any club members who are interested in delivering #BikeAndBlether rides to give it a try! You do not need to be a mental health expert or have any specific training in mental health, itsjust about creating an inclusive space for anyone to join a ride, have a chat and enjoy riding their bike with others. If you or your club are interested in finding out more about #BikeAndBlether please visit this link or contact Julie: Julie.erskine@scottishcycling.org.uk.
