Harley-Davidson and Mental Health: How Riding Can Benefit Your Mental Wellbeing
Harley-Davidson and Mental Health: How Riding Can Benefit Your Mental Wellbeing
If you're a Harley-Davidson rider, you probably already know that you're a cut above the pack. Now, there's scientific proof to back you up. UCLA researchers conducted a study that indicates motorcycle enthusiasts may enjoy lower stress levels while riding. Plus, riding may help you stay more alert on and off the highway.
You can add that to your reasons for continuing this exhilarating activity. Redline Harley-Davidson has put together the top ways riding may improve your mental health.
Stay Relaxed, No More Stress
You don't need statistics to tell you that your stress fades away as you roar down the roadway. However, the UCLA study, funded by Harley-Davidson, reports that cruising crushes hormonal biomarkers (such as cortisol) that indicate stress, lowering levels by 28%.
Additionally, the healthy adrenaline rush related to hopping on your Harley increases your heart rate. It requires physical activity and may help you burn as many calories as light exercise does. Maybe that’s why many motorcycle riders seem so calm.
Stay Alert, Better Than Coffee
When you throw your leg over your motorcycle and hit the open road, your mind immediately clears. Further, when you ride a motorcycle, you remain alert, possibly boosting your cognitive abilities, and travelling on two wheels increases brain activity related to spatial orientation and attention.
Researchers compare the results to drinking eight ounces of coffee. So, if you want to work on your memory and improve your learning ability, consider spending more time on your favourite ride. Fresh air and sunshine add to your contentment whether you're driving a Yahama or BMW. However, there’s nothing quite like the roar of a Harley.
Stay Happy, Just Ride
Riding a motorcycle can trigger the release of endorphins, dopamine and serotonin, the neurotransmitters that control emotion and mood. As you achieve a sense of freedom and adventure on your road trip, you may feel more satisfied and positive. All this combines to improve your psychological well-being.
Just like mindful meditation, motorcycle riding dissuades you from focusing on stressful events or day-to-day problems.
Stay Connected, Cycling Communities
Motorcyclists often ride together, encouraging the formation of cycling clubs and communities. When you join other bikers, you gain the mental health benefits of socialization and the feeling of connectedness that comes when others share your interests.
Obviously, riding a Harley Davidson has hopeful ramifications for your mental health. With the proper safety precautions and a little common sense, your weekend cruises can improve your mental well-being.