World Bicycle Day

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These days, everyday is a reason to celebrate something, and usually, more than one something. Just look at all the “International X Day” this and “World X Day” that that we are reminded of on a daily basis. Some of these days are silly (“Tortilla Chip Day,” “Mario Day,”) others are more widely loved, like, say, “Coffee Day.” Today, June 3rd, is a day near and dear to my heart, World Bicycle Day. The United Nations declared June 3rd as World Bicycle Day in 2018, citing "the uniqueness, longevity and versatility of the bicycle, which has been in use for two centuries, and that it is a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transport.” A bike is much more than that, though. Studies over the years have stressed the physical and mental health benefits of riding a bicycle on a consistent basis, and World Bicycle Day is now being used as a way to promote a healthy lifestyle among the diabetic community. I use it for all of that, and while the low-impact nature of cycling does wonders for my physical health, the mental health benefits when I ride are off the charts. Since the day I learned to ride as a child, the bike has represented freedom for me. While I’m riding, I’m not worried about my financial situation, home situation, the world, etc. For a couple hours, it’s just me, a bike, and the miles. And everything seems better at the end of that ride. So do yourself a favor and rediscover that childhood joy. World Bike Day is a good day to start! “My bike is my gym, my wheelchair and my church all in one.” - Bill Walton