-2 C
Cheshire
Wednesday, February 12, 2025

Pedal power: Benefits of cycling this Mental Health Awareness Week

One in four people in the UK experience mental health disorders every year.

This reality highlights the pressing need for awareness, support, and empathy towards mental health problems and people who experience them.

Mental Health Awareness Week (May 13- 19) is an annual event to raise awareness about mental health disorders, its causes, and effects.

This year’s theme is ‘movement’, in hope to encourage individuals to incorporate movement into their daily habits. The NHS recommends at least 2.5 hours of exercise a week.

However, incorporating daily movement not only allows individuals to enjoy fresh air and outdoors time but also triggers the release of ‘happy hormones’, which positively impact people’s mental well-being.

E-bike insurer cycleGuard sheds light on mental and physical health benefits of cycling.

James Whitten, marketing manager at cycleGuard, said: “Mental health and wellbeing has never been more at the forefront of people’s minds as it is now. There are a number of activities we can do to help improve our mental health, and cycling offers a number of benefits.”

Cycling helps to reduce anxiety

One study has shown that less than an hour of cycling helps the body produce the endocannabinoid anandamide (AEA). This is a naturally occurring chemical that helps to regulate many things within the human body, including stress. Cycling has also been linked with reducing anxiety. A study of almost 300 students found that riding a bike helped to reduce signs of anxiety.

Cycling improves well-being

Regular physical activity also helps to combat stress, depression, and anxiety. Cycling to work is one of the best ways to improve one’s well-being every day. A study carried out across a number of European cities, found that using a bike to get around can help with lowering perceived stress and fighting the feeling of loneliness.

The research, conducted by ISGlobal, compared different ways of getting around such as: walking, taking the car or public transport, and claimed that cycling was the number one mode of transport for improving people’s well-being.

The research is supported by a previous study of commuters by the University of East Anglia back in 2014. The report concluded that those who cycle and walk to work were put under less strain and were able to concentrate more than those who commute by car.

The same study also found that commuters who had made the switch from four-wheels to two, reported that they felt happier as a result.

Helen
Helen
I'm the editor here at Business Cheshire and I'd keen to hear what's happening where you live. With more than 18 years' experience in journalism and digital PR, I'm particularly keen to hear from businesses with exciting news.
spot_imgspot_img

Latest

The Code Registry and SCANOSS Partner to Improve Open-Source Visibility and Risk Management

Collaboration Offers Organisations Advanced Insights to Identify, Evaluate, and...

Give the Gift of Racehorse Ownership This Valentine’s Day with ‘Love You Millions’

If you’re struggling to find the perfect Valentine’s Day...

Mooneerams Solicitors Supports Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity as Its 2025 Charity of the Year

Mooneerams, a highly regarded personal injury law firm in...

Man jailed for raping child in Northwich

A man has been jailed for raping a child...
spot_imgspot_img

Newsletter

Don't miss

Mooneerams Solicitors Supports Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital Charity as Its 2025 Charity of the Year

Mooneerams, a highly regarded personal injury law firm in...

EdgeSynergies to Debut Revolutionary Edge Data Centre Solution at DSbD Showcase

EdgeSynergies is set to showcase its UKRI-funded project at...

National Apprenticeship Week: Rising star promoted to logistics co-ordinator at Risley courier firm

An apprentice at a Risley-based same-day courier service has...

New projects to explore the North West’s working-class heritage

Four new projects across the North West are being...

More News

Essential Winter Driving Tips for EV Owners to Avoid Mishaps and Fines

● The Electric Car Scheme provides key advice for EV drivers in cold weather ● The salary sacrifice provider also highlights how to avoid fines...

Next Generation Takes Over at Staffordshire’s Jacksons Nurseries

Jacksons Nurseries, located in Bagnall, North Staffordshire, has entered a new era of family ownership. Luke Jackson has left his career in corporate finance...

SPAR Launches Frozen Fortune Game with £10,000 Cash Prizes and Free Rewards

SPAR is helping customers start 2025 on a high note with its new Frozen Fortune competition. Shoppers have the chance to win from a...