Here at Trauma Research UK, we are overjoyed to be teaming up with Ryan and his team from TotalMTB. This amazing group of people are dedicated to reaching out and spreading awareness about mental health through their favourite hobby.
Spending time outdoors can benefit both your mental and physical health in many ways. Ryan Oldfield knows this more than most as he has lived with anxiety, panic and even a full breakdown over the years. Here’s what he has to say:
“I have tried different exposure therapies, medication etc but the thing that helped me best was taking up a hobby. Through mountain biking, I’ve found a new lease on life. Being outside in the fresh air and beautiful countryside has helped me so much. The sound of birds, the wind in the trees, breathing in the fresh air all help to switch off the stresses of life. Nature is a beautiful thing and helps clear your mind from anxiety.
I started TotalMTB to encourage others to get outside and feel all the benefits that I did. Through TotalMTB, I am not just leading a healthier way of life but have found some truly awesome and supportive friends. We do a lot of charity work on not only raising awareness but also raising money for mental health.
By speaking out and sharing my story and experiences, I am hopefully letting others know, it is okay to not be okay, you are certainly not alone. So my message to you is: If you feel like you need help, reach out to family, friends, or a charity like Trauma Research UK. There is a light at the end of the tunnel. Maybe you should even try mountain biking?
No matter where you live you can get out on your bike and go from a built-up area to a green space in a very short time. Even if you live in a big city, there are beautiful parks within a short ride. The sound of birds, the wind in the trees, breathing in the fresh air are all great ways to be mindful, they help to switch off the stresses of life. If you can find a place to pause, look and listen it’s so peaceful and relaxing. You notice things around you that you would normally take for granted.
Nature is a beautiful thing and clears your mind. If you are lucky enough to be out on a sunny day, this too will help produce feel-good hormones and provide the all-essential vitamin D. If you’ve never tried it, give it a go, it changed my life, it could change yours.”
Ryan Oldfield
TotalMTB CIC Founder – @RazOldfield
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