fi tbody
“
is,” says Elly Blue, 34, author of the recently released book, Everyday Bicycling: How to Ride a Bike for Transportation. Blue’s life was transformed when she made a bicycle part of her daily world; so much so that she now dedicates her writing career largely to the subject. “Bicycling is just so much more
I A Passion for Pedaling
Hop on a Bike and Go Lean and Green by Debra Melani
Trading in the car keys for more two-wheeled time could curb many of society’s woes, from spiraling healthcare costs to deepening carbon footprints. Yet, the main reason many bicyclists love going for a spin is that it yields a greater sense of well-being and contributes to a healthier, more rewarding life.
rewarding than driving,” remarks Tammy Strobel, 34, who gained national attention with her husband when they simplifi ed their lives by building a 128-square-foot house. Cycling to work and to run errands was “a huge” piece of their transformation, even after the couple hauled their tiny abode from Portland, Oregon, (where Blue also resides) to a cattle ranch in California. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the number of Americans that generally bike to work grew by 43 percent between 2000 and 2008, a statistic that doesn’t surprise Blue. She fi rst tried bike commuting after growing weary of relying on the bus system. “I got hooked on just how good it felt. It’s like fl ying.” Blue soon found that cycling was also a faster way to commute, restoring control of her schedule, reducing stress and boosting her happiness. Strobel, who adds that enjoying nature and increasing daily exercise are also cycling benefi ts, says it’s bolstered her happiness and quality of life. “I don’t have to spend time going to the gym,” explains the freelance writer and photographer. “I’m
know it sounds crazy to say that bicycling is a silver bullet for all of these things, but I think it
22 Central Florida natural awakenings
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