“Find a place inside where there’s joy, and the joy will burn out the pain.” – Joseph Campbell
It’s getting warmer here in Australia at present as we enter summer. One of my favourite sports I participate regularly in is cycling. Yes, I am one of those Lycra clad people you see spending hours on a bike, with the shaved, toned legs and expensive lightweight bicycle.
This morning was going to be warm so I decided to take a long ride and clear my head space. I am a water sign and enjoy spending time near water. One of my favourite trips is riding along the beach for as long as time will allow me, before feeling guilty that I have a great deal of work to get through.
I live within a 6km (3.7 miles) of the CBD, so getting to the beach usually means riding through town at peak hour. I have to navigate through motorists commuting to work in a hurry I might add. This usually means that my attempt to reach the beach in a tranquil state is thrown out of balance for the first hour.
I had a conversation with a friend some time ago about this very topic and we decided that cycling was a form of meditation. You’re able to traverse some beautiful, scenic routes while breathing rich air (by the water of course) and be alone, just you, the road and your machine. I had been feeling a little agitated over the last few weeks, given my hay-fever had restricted my outdoor pursuits. I sucked it up over the weekend and made an intention to the universe that I was not going to accept this anymore. I managed four days straight of exercising outdoors and have never felt so energised before.
I love riding near the water since I connect with nature. My soul comes alive and sings with joy when I see blue sea and sky. I am alive when my heart is beating, my muscles contracting and sweating to get me over those short inclines in the road. The way the sun bears down on my skin, leaving a pool of sweat in its wake. This is what I long for. I never cease to tire of it. I recall times when my family has noticed my agitation. There’s a protocol now at my place that goes along the lines of “get on your bike and ride off the worry, stress or anxiety.”
So what brings you joy? What ignites your emotions, your senses? Is it being around like minded people? or a night out with a loved one? I’m keen to hear your reply’s. Next time you’re engaged in the activity, be in the MOMENT. Feel it, live it, breathe it and watch all you faculties come alive. This is your soul, your spirit talking. This is spiritual and physical health in all its glory. It is telling you how much joy and love the moment brings when you’re fully engaged in it. So carve out more moments like these throughout your week and watch your life take on new meaning. You’ll absolutely notice the difference in your mood and physical state.
