May is National Bike Month and is celebrated in communities from coast to coast. Established in 1956, National Bike Month is a chance to showcase the many benefits of bicycling — and encourage more folks to giving biking a try.

This National Bike Month will necessarily be different this year. Healthy Communities Mental Health Action Team wants to help you find healthy ways to promote a healthy mind and body. With a focus on well-being and connection, we’re highlighting the physical and mental health benefits of biking.

Help us celebrate National Bike Month this May and reap the benefits of biking:

• Cycling is a great activity you can do while maintaining a safe social distance.
• Cycling allows you to get outside and enjoy the physical and mental health benefits of open air and sunshine.
• Exercise improves your mood by pumping blood faster through the body and encourages the rapid spread of endorphins — those chemicals that naturally give you a “high.”
• Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress are positively impacted through exercise.
• Cycling promotes new thought patterns — allowing for a person to “zone out,” meditate, or pray. This “brain reset” promotes feelings of calm and well-being.

Whether you’re riding for fun, fitness with family, or taking essential trips to work or shop, you are part of a movement for safer streets, connected communities, a healthier planet, and happier people.

To learn more about National Bike Month and activities in your community, visit the League of American Bicyclists website.