60 years riding now.......77 years young.......bike prevents Alzheimer's, prevents stress, aids blood flow, ram air in face like a supercharger. I ride 25,000 miles a year . In Florida hot waether, when it rains, strip to bathing suit and dive booties. love it,,,,,,,,Capt. Tom,
I have been riding motorcycles since the early 1970's and I might add mental issues and anxiety is the reason many of us military veterans ride motorcycles, Many of us veterans are dealing with traumatic situations that we have experienced while in the service and riding a motorcycle helps to calm those anxieties dramatically.
I also suffer from severe anxiety and depression since eight years ago. Eleven years ago I bought a Harley but every day the Harley became harder to drive for me. Then three months ago I bought a Royal Endfield and returned to actively riding a motorbike to overcome my anxiety and depression. BTW, thank you for your explanation, mental health greetings, bravo. 😃👍🙏❤🎉
I'm a 66 year old rider. You are spot on! Men are taught to 'suck it up," but the 'suck it up' mentality is killing us! I spent the last 3 years suicidal when as an Emergency Medical Responder. The leading cause of death in law enforcement is suicide, the leading cause of death in EMS is suicide, the leading cause of death for firefighters is heart attack, follwed by suicide. Three years ago next Sunday, (4/28/21) I was one of 4 EMS professionals tasked with the recovery of the body of a cute little 5-year-old boy who fell 70’ to his death. I not only helped recover his body, I assisted the medical examiner with his examination (looking for bruising, looking in his mouth for foreign objects, in his pants (he was so cute he could have been a girl, he was ½ Native American with long curly black hair), etc, zipping the little guy in a body bag and loading his body in the coroner’s van. The series of events and the conditions surrounding it put me in a death spiral. The following is an excerpt from an email I sent my boss after leaving work quite hastily one day. I had no idea how dark my life was turning and was about to turn even darker. “The weight of depression has been absolutely crushing. I’ve endured this for a long time but in recent years it has become noticeably worse. Recently, even worse yet. On a good day, it is tiring, and many days it is numbing, and on too many days, it eliminates my will to live. I hide it well, most folks are amazed at my energy and boundless enthusiasm. Until recently I would always counter the inclination toward suicide with the logical reasons not to; the people it would hurt, the stigma of losing a dad, husband, son, brother, grandfather to suicide is not something I would drop on them. But then I figured if it happened on my bike they'd say- “at least he died doing what he loves.” However, I can’t do that to the first responders who would have to mop me up. (God knows tragedy weighs on first responders.) I wear the best riding gear made, so I won’t be a mess, I reasoned; but what if it saves me, I’m disabled, and someone has to feed me and wipe my butt… So logic has always won over depression. I’m old school, I suck it up. But sucking it up is killing me both literally and figuratively -slowly but surely.” Though I’ve worked many ugly scenes, and faced terrible abuse growing up, (that’s a whole ‘nother story) the dead child was the proverbial ‘straw that broke the camel’s back.’ I finally decided to seek help when logically I had no reason to commit suicide, but was dangerously close; plans were made, my office was emptied of personal items, etc. No one had a clue. My plans were meticulously laid to make it look accidental. Heck, I impressed myself at how hard it would have been to recognize suicide. When someone has heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc. we don’t make fun of them. With mental health however, we call people, schitzo, crazy, pyscho, looney, nuts, spastic, freak, screw loose, a few sandwiches short of a picnic basket, not playing with a full deck, etc. We send them to the looney bin, nut ward, funny farm, etc. If they go there repeatedly they are ‘frequent fliers.’ I’m also an advocate for changing the understanding of PTSD, choosing instead to call it, Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI). “69% of mental health professionals surveyed think calling it PTSI would reduce the stigma associated with the term PTSD. 53% thing it would increase hope in finding a solution for their symptoms. 55% think that using PTSI would increase the likelihood of seeking help. "We often manage "disorders," while we heal from 'injuries.'" - Dr. Shauna Springer & Dr. Eugene Lipov. I am working hard to further the conversation of men's mental health. 70 percent (68.9 actual) of suicides in the US are middle aged men. We have to change this. Thanks for doing your part! Sorry to ramble, but this topic is near and dear to my heart! In the US, you know longer have to remember a full phone number for mental health help. 988 is all you have to call.
Nicely spoken about. I too started biking in my 40's and have found it is all those things about self care. I initially would wander for hours on the bike...not really caring where I ended up, stopping wherever for coffee or food. The time on the bike really does feel like "Me" time. It even makes ordinary annoying errands a bit more fun (which has me winter riding as well).
Tom I'm 50 and feel the same as you. I love running errands on my bike!! I'm focusing in on my health so I can ride for years to come. I hope you're still enjoying it
We in the Philippines I ride mopeds or scooter and really feels good even with a tropical weather. I enjoy riding to and from the office more than staying in the office. Just ride and ride hard.
I got into it a little late too, at 35. I ride almost every day now and i love it. No matter how hard my day was, i get on my bike and sometimes take the longer route home. I recently started filming every ride because you never know what you'll see. And its just nice to share what i see and the beautiful area i live in. And it reminds me that i can still feel something. The sheer joy that comes from cruising on two wheels.
I want a bike because I want a cheap 2 wheel vehicle that I can work on and mod to my liking. I want a bike so I can feel different than everyone else and like sporty vehicles at the same time. I also wanted to learn how to drive a manual. My parents don't like my interest in mechanics and other trades unless it's welding.
Motorcycle riding inadvertently helped with my panic attacks after the war. Like you. I didn't know what was happening. Motorcycle riding has helped throughout my life. Later, the bike got me out of my shell after a divorce. It got me out of the house in a new location and I made new friends.
I’m not overly spiritual but man you video popped in my feed and I’m realizing now at 40y/o I’m dealing with anxiety or depression. Literally lost my father out the blue 2 years ago and have been extremely angry for a while. I purchased a 3 wheeler and it has helped considerably. I never thought just being out in the open air would’ve had such a profound change on my mood and my way of thinking. So glad I came across this video to remind me that it’s ok to care for myself from time to time.
yes, I was disallowed to use current income for my MC. I bought it at 53..I got my license at 53. I withdrew funds from my rrsp and my spouse was blown away. I prayed for inspiration to deal with my mental health challenges. the answer came back to get a MC. so I followed that inspiration. normally I would not take that perceived risk, expose my family to the risk. the resistance directed my way was understandable....not to be written about.... my path and goal is to grow, heal, support others and be a role model for my family. so no it was not a midlife crisis it was a what do I need to do to stay alive.
@@CaffeineAndGasoline thank you. the mc community is very supportive and expansive..the relationships I am investing in are transformative and exactly what I need to be more assertive, exploratory and healthy. perfect outcome, uncomfortable at first and understandable resistance. growth and change can occur in many forms and it is.
Thank you for sharing this video! I can totally relate and this is why I plan to join the MC community. It has been on my spirit for a while and now I’m finally gonna take the step forward. 🫡
Thanks for being a real man and talking about this. Dealt with the same thing before riding. Also in Ontario so this riding season couldn't have come sooner! Thanks again and ride safe brother.
Fellow dad here, I also was concerned even during some of my rides if I was making the mistake of not spending enough time with family. Important to not undervalue the importance of self care. Good video!
Excellent job explaining and illustrating this issue! I’m right there with you. I also started riding at 44. I deal with the trifecta: anxiety, depression, and ADHD. That’s why I have 5 bikes! Thanks brother
so much truth spoken in your video man! and btw, speaking of getting into motorcycling, i just turned 36 and tomorrow im having my 1st hour of msf class, (its called something different in my country). clear roads ahead, ill be joining those like soon : ). covid did not do it for me but seeing those tourers going through Europe did.
Great video! I got on the bike at 39 and it has helped tons for anxiety and de-stressing. also riding a dark horse. Love that bike! Thank you for the video!
Great topic.. Something the head of a household gets forgotten, as he is always expected to deliver and be there for the family. One way for me to deal is have a routine of 'ME TIME'. Maybe it gardening, riding or travelling.. essential to have me time. Also not being scared of opening up. It's a serious issue, but can certainly be overcome with a bit of effort.
Never had anxiety problems or such but I will say after about an hour ride I can hardly stay awake I'm so zoned. I do believe it's a form of meditation. Doing dangerous things require total concentration in the moment. So everything else goes away just like meditation. This is why people skydive, climb, go fast, ect. Whether they know it or not. Firefighting/medical is good for this too in my experience.
Currently 68, will turn 69 in 3weeks, started riding this spring (May 2024). I wish I had started earlier. I couldn’t believe how de-stressing it is to ride. My goal is to stay fit and flexible so I can ride for 10 years. Agree totally with your comments.
Well said man. I can totally relate to every sentence. Here in UK we've got a support group called Mental Health Motorbike. These things are some common - if you think you're "defected" or alone with it you don't even know how common things like anxiety are. I know this too well myself.
Well said brother!! I just came across your channel a few days ago from an exhaust video. I’ve just purchased a 2019 Chief dark horse and my brother is getting a 2020 Chieftain, both from the Indian dealer in Oakville. Hoping to have them delivered by next week. Watching this video, it felt like you were talking about me. I’m 37 and picked up riding a year and a half ago as well. I wanted an old project car but felt it was much cheaper to get an old bike I can work on and build up for much cheaper. It was same for me, I didn’t realize how much it helped my anxiety until winter came and I couldn’t ride anymore. I too had been on medication for anxiety and then went off it once I started riding. Now in the winter I try to survive by planing modifications for my bike, car or experimenting with some wood working etc. I’m planning to set up my Chief for two up riding with my wife so I’ll definitely be coming to you for advice on that. I’m not far from you and I ride most of these roads in your videos. Maybe this season we can go on some rides together and grab a coffee. Looking forward to your future mods as well!
I am in Milton. Send me a PM and we'll go ride together. I actually wanted a car project too! I am now starting to order car parts (6-8 months delay these days on everything) and am hoping to do the project next winter.
Thank you for such a honest and compassionate video. I truly truly truly appreciate this. Keep up the good work because you never know who you may help. God Bless.
It's real nice that you've addressed this issue. I can relate all too well. I'm trying to fight this monster at this time in my life. You seem like a really nice, thoughtful person.
I just started riding at 47 years old am overweight I can't sleep I work 2 jobs iam sad depressed single no kids or wife since I've started riding it has helped me thou I just need friends to talk to all I do is work all the time
I'm 68, been riding since 19yrs old.....we bikers know these things !!! The actual bike riding is 80% and the other 20% is the biking community which are fantastic ! Good video !, Thanks
I get myself out of stress by silent prayer in a distant church especially ho riding my bike, confession and then riding my bike through the marvellous nature God has prepared for me.
Biking is my peace of mind. If I take the bike to work I am in a good mood even if the weather really bad. Then on the way back no matter how bad the day is the stress melts away the second my feet are up.
Nicely said. I also started motorcycling 15 years ago, in my early 40s, and it has been very therapeutic in respect to my mental health. I am a chronic over-thinker and have a role that exposes to a fair bit of vicarious trauma, and going for a ride helps. I have found long country rides more therapeutic than track days and commuting, but even those types of riding help too. I suspect the focus that comes from managing risk is part of the reason - I used to fly light aircraft and had the same response - but agree the sense that you are more part of the environment you pass through gives you a connection.
Grate job. I have a wife that battles. She got worse on 9 11. Shortly after that, I got back on a motorcycle. She road with me and felt better. She got her on bike,and loved it .Then she got Hurt at work.She ended up disabled. So I stopped riding for 6 years.I got back on her bike, then moved back up to my Harley. Now I have 2 bikes and her bike. I need to ride ,to cope with her. I'm in my 50s. Thank God for fishing and motorcycles. Grate job on video.
Riding to just become. My Mom in the 1950's made me walk twenty minutes on the highway, all dressed, up every week to Sunday school, All by myself at six years old. The story of Jesus and, what maybe should have been a more simple concept. That of "God Within a Human". Once you learn to play with the concept, you are on your way!! The Chinese give Lucky Money in little red envelopes, to the kids at Chinese New Years to teach them another wonderful concept. That of a feeling within, of being "Happy Go Lucky". Now as an adult, with both these concepts in hand, I am able to, and do "Try to Love" more deeply and just let it all come through. "Just diggin' it" on a nice spring cruise, with my Yamaha Vstar time machine. Really glad you shared this video!
This is great stuff, thanks for commenting on my video or I would never have seen it. I've added a link to this video in the description of mine as you have nailed so many of the point and issues around mens mental health. You have a new subscriber. Ride Safe
It give me part of my identity, helps me connect with my dads history and my childhood, give me chance to use crazy good physical skills… Looks cool. Feels great. Reminds me of time riding my bicycle when I was a distance athlete in teen hood. Helps me connect with others.
Thanks for this video. I completely agree with you. Having a bike when I was younger I never felt anxious or depressed. I was a positive and happy guy. With my first child I sold the bike and didn’t rode for over ten years. I dealt with anger, depression, anxiety and overall bad health issues. I never thought this was linked to my passion of motorcycles. Now I bought a new iron horse, all my problems are gone. In my opinion the problem is that some men, especially fathers, think about their spouse and children first. It’s kind of not deserving being happy themselves. You work hard, you try to build a life around your family but you don’t think about yourself. It is good and not shameful to be selfish sometimes, but it’s not easy to overcome, especially when your wife doesn’t understand. The key is to get lose of social pressure and free your mind with something you really like.👍
I love motorcycles, if you do it enough lots of it becomes automatic. Then you have the time to explore parts of your mind it's almost like Zen state like 2 people in your head arguing both sides of the argument. While you ride the bike, very hard to talk to people about this. I used to find that the more fatigued I was, I could enter this state and seemingly function at a higher state. All the little stuff was auto pilot you know like mud, gravel sand rocks steep hills both up and down other bikes. So at any second you had leave that Zen like state supervise & solve the immediate problem. The rush got from being able to do this was the best drug in the world, I wish everyone could experience that.
I started riding when I was 23 for fun but now in my 40s the reasons have shifted along with the style of riding and bike. Went from sport bikes to Indian scout so the reasons and type of riding might change over the years.
My best friend calls me all the time to vent about his emotions and problems and I couldn’t be prouder of him for doing it. Yet I still can’t do it for myself. But practicing gratuity has helped me a lot.
Love the topic. You hit the nail on the head. If you’re open to it….I say start a trial period Zoom meeting for bikers (men or men and women). Maybe for an hour and open up a dialogue on this important topic of Mental Health…and we each deal with it, what remedies each has found that works. This could be a pure sharing session. I will be the first to sign on. I too deal w/anxiety and started riding in my 50’s….riding has made a huge difference.
They tell me motorcycles are dangerous, but 25 years ago an old Honda saved my life. No amount of therapy or special pills would help. But something about the wind and the noise and having to focus on the *right now* makes everything OK. Thanks for the video, may you ride safely, and may that Indian never get a scratch.
Interesting topic. I always wanted to ride a motorcycle, but I only got me one 6 years ago (I was 47) when my father passed away. I couldn't buy one before respecting my father who lost a son in a motorcycle accident. motorcycling is more than fun, I agree totally with you, it's therapy. I live 5 minutes walking from my work, but I take an hour long tour before coming to work. My problem is that this country is so tiny for motorcycling. I live in palestine, or the occupied Palestinian Territories, a place so tiny, only a 120 miles its longest route, and full of checkpoints, walls, fences, hostile lands everywhere. it's like a hopscotch. nevertheless, I ride everyday. in winter, it's even better, less hot. it does not get that cold here. living in this tiny country, full of political turmoils, in addition to family/work/existential issues, motorcycling is the only little freedom i get. but I don't feel invisible, on the contrary...
I really like doing week long rides. Gives me something to look forward to. And I really feel alive when I’m riding. My only wish is that I had more time to do the long rides. It really helps with depression
I tried riding a motorcycle at the Harley Davidson riding academy yesterday, for the first time ever. It was one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had, and I’ve been dead twice, sexually assaulted, and had to take sick leave for mental health issues.
Such a warm and wise video, thank you 🙏 I have PTSD anxiety and depression. I have a small collection of Royal Enfield motorcycles and they help me so much! Just fixing them up and going for a ride to explore new and beautiful places gives me so much joy. By the way what motorcycle are you riding? Stay well friend 😊
I’ve been riding since 2006, my anxiety and depression started probably 2014 It seems like nothing helps it. It’s so hard for me to focus and enjoy my ride when I’m being tore apart, I have no reason to be it might be the overthinking. The loneliness and getting older really does suck. HATE IT.
If you look at my life its going oretty well like every friend that i have is gonna say that im a very funy, happy and energetic guy but not when im not with them. It was a nice day and one of my friends got his motorbike licence and he bought an aprilia RS 125 without blocade so basicly it has 18kw instead of 10. He said if i wanna try to ride it and ofc i sad yes so i got on the bike and start it. I start very slow ofc until i hited that 6k rpm and it just boosted me from 40km/h to 120 in 5 sec (dond judge me it was alot for me😅) and i felt that power of the motorbike for the furst time and it was so peaceful when i drove 170km/h alone and not in the car for the first time . It was just me the wind and the bike All of my problems just disapired in thin air. Other people use drugs, pills, bubble baths, gym... to make their problems go away and i choused motorbikes. If you deal with depression try to find that thing that makes you happy and enjoy every second of it. Have a great day N.S.
Thanks for posting such an important topic. I started riding at 50. I also never did anything for myself because of guilt. The pandemic has pushed me way, way past my normal ability to cope. Riding has helped. I did two long rides this year alone to just think and be with the bike. I still felt guilty about doing it. Now winter is here. My riding has almost stopped except for an occasional dry day here and there. Wrenching on bikes helps some, but not like riding.
@@CaffeineAndGasoline I sent your video to my wife. She said she still doesn't understand, but maybe it's just a guy thing. Lol. She doesn't mind, but also just doesn't understand.
Well said! You’ve got a great vibe and it a big heart it seems. I dig it. It’s a been a tough couple of years. I bought my dream bike a 2016 Indian Chief Classic in November 2020. Being in a global pandemic has taught me to find a better balance to living in the moment. My wife and lived in Brampton and moved to Hamilton so that we could afford to live off 1 salary. It’s working very well. It would be very cool to hang out and grab a coffee sometime.
Growing up in a dysfunctional family, I became hypervigilant to my surrounding to be safe. As an adult, this hypervigilance is now a burden. Riding M/C's requires full concentration and forces the brain to pay attention to the road and stops the hypervigilance which, for me, is where the therapeutic benefit lies.
I agree with you most of thing you said I started riding motorbike 2 years ago and I love it Nc750x and it works for me I have had lot of friends making comments like I'm going to kill myself blah blah my birthday coming up in Feb I will be 70 year's age.best thing happen to me riding motorcycle😊
But just asking, will it not be risky to ride a motorcycle when someone has anxiety disorder. Because I too have anxiety and I am thinking to get a new motorcycle for riding. So thinking if it’s all right to get myself a new bike and ride it despite the condition I am in?
"I ride to deal with anxiety because when you're riding basically everyone is trying to kill you." Not exactly the best sell out of context, but being real yeah the riding mentality really is meditative in a sense.
I learned how to really ride a year ago. I'm 28 got my first z400 and I'm nervous. I can ride but I still am jittery. They say that's a good thing. I wasn't comfortable on an sv 650 (hated it) and cruisers weren't quite for me. so I learned in an empty lot on a drz400 dual sport. Now I own my own z400. I really love my bike. I however this season really wanna do it up right. I suffer ADHD but I'm confident in the clutch but a tad nervous about the roads. Sticking to country riding. I'm most nervous about stops and turns.would CBD or ADHD medicine help? I'm mature enough to handle and make healthy choices. But really don't want to get f'd up lol. Illinois drivers are the prob in Michigan
Is it wrong to spend some money on bike upgrades to cope up with anxiety? It's just that I feel so guilty spending money for my own sake and not for my family. Riding motorcycles and modifying it helps me forget about all my anxieties. When I don't ride, the void inside of me grows back in like a black hole sucks matter into it. My fiance knows nothing about what I'm dealing with. I'm a man after all, I could'nt share to anyone else my problems. ' have to deal with my own'. That's always have been my thought. I guess I'm totally wrong, I need help. I wish I could talk to someone else without judging me along.
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60 years riding now.......77 years young.......bike prevents Alzheimer's, prevents stress, aids blood flow, ram air in face like a supercharger.
I ride 25,000 miles a year . In Florida hot waether, when it rains, strip to bathing suit and dive booties. love it,,,,,,,,Capt. Tom,
Started riding just 3 years ago at 50. I like to ride alone with music.Stress and depression vanish and I function better now. Thank you for this.
I have been riding motorcycles since the early 1970's and I might add mental issues and anxiety is the reason many of us military veterans ride motorcycles, Many of us veterans are dealing with traumatic situations that we have experienced while in the service and riding a motorcycle helps to calm those anxieties dramatically.
For this very reason is why I am planning to get a bike this year. 🫡
Riding has pulled me through some dark times in my life for two decades now. Amazing how fast time flies.
I also suffer from severe anxiety and depression since eight years ago.
Eleven years ago I bought a Harley but every day the Harley became harder to drive for me.
Then three months ago I bought a Royal Endfield and returned to actively riding a motorbike to overcome my anxiety and depression.
BTW, thank you for your explanation, mental health greetings, bravo. 😃👍🙏❤🎉
Love the RE bikes.
I'm a 66 year old rider. You are spot on! Men are taught to 'suck it up," but the 'suck it up' mentality is killing us! I spent the last 3 years suicidal when as an Emergency Medical Responder. The leading cause of death in law enforcement is suicide, the leading cause of death in EMS is suicide, the leading cause of death for firefighters is heart attack, follwed by suicide. Three years ago next Sunday, (4/28/21) I was one of 4 EMS professionals tasked with the recovery of the body of a cute little 5-year-old boy who fell 70’ to his death. I not only helped recover his body, I assisted the medical examiner with his examination (looking for bruising, looking in his mouth for foreign objects, in his pants (he was so cute he could have been a girl, he was ½ Native American with long curly black hair), etc, zipping the little guy in a body bag and loading his body in the coroner’s van. The series of events and the conditions surrounding it put me in a death spiral. The following is an excerpt from an email I sent my boss after leaving work quite hastily one day. I had no idea how dark my life was turning and was about to turn even darker. “The weight of depression has been absolutely crushing. I’ve endured this for a long time but in recent years it has become noticeably worse. Recently, even worse yet. On a good day, it is tiring, and many days it is numbing, and on too many days, it eliminates my will to live. I hide it well, most folks are amazed at my energy and boundless enthusiasm. Until recently I would always counter the inclination toward suicide with the logical reasons not to; the people it would hurt, the stigma of losing a dad, husband, son, brother, grandfather to suicide is not something I would drop on them. But then I figured if it happened on my bike they'd say- “at least he died doing what he loves.” However, I can’t do that to the first responders who would have to mop me up. (God knows tragedy weighs on first responders.) I wear the best riding gear made, so I won’t be a mess, I reasoned; but what if it saves me, I’m disabled, and someone has to feed me and wipe my butt… So logic has always won over depression. I’m old school, I suck it up. But sucking it up is killing me both literally and figuratively -slowly but surely.”
Though I’ve worked many ugly scenes, and faced terrible abuse growing up, (that’s a whole ‘nother story) the dead child was the proverbial ‘straw that broke the camel’s back.’
I finally decided to seek help when logically I had no reason to commit suicide, but was dangerously close; plans were made, my office was emptied of personal items, etc. No one had a clue. My plans were meticulously laid to make it look accidental. Heck, I impressed myself at how hard it would have been to recognize suicide.
When someone has heart disease, cancer, diabetes, etc. we don’t make fun of them. With mental health however, we call people, schitzo, crazy, pyscho, looney, nuts, spastic, freak, screw loose, a few sandwiches short of a picnic basket, not playing with a full deck, etc. We send them to the looney bin, nut ward, funny farm, etc. If they go there repeatedly they are ‘frequent fliers.’ I’m also an advocate for changing the understanding of PTSD, choosing instead to call it, Post Traumatic Stress Injury (PTSI). “69% of mental health professionals surveyed think calling it PTSI would reduce the stigma associated with the term PTSD. 53% thing it would increase hope in finding a solution for their symptoms. 55% think that using PTSI would increase the likelihood of seeking help. "We often manage "disorders," while we heal from 'injuries.'" - Dr. Shauna Springer & Dr. Eugene Lipov.
I am working hard to further the conversation of men's mental health. 70 percent (68.9 actual) of suicides in the US are middle aged men. We have to change this. Thanks for doing your part!
Sorry to ramble, but this topic is near and dear to my heart!
In the US, you know longer have to remember a full phone number for mental health help. 988 is all you have to call.
Nicely spoken about. I too started biking in my 40's and have found it is all those things about self care. I initially would wander for hours on the bike...not really caring where I ended up, stopping wherever for coffee or food. The time on the bike really does feel like "Me" time. It even makes ordinary annoying errands a bit more fun (which has me winter riding as well).
Tom I'm 50 and feel the same as you. I love running errands on my bike!! I'm focusing in on my health so I can ride for years to come. I hope you're still enjoying it
We in the Philippines I ride mopeds or scooter and really feels good even with a tropical weather. I enjoy riding to and from the office more than staying in the office. Just ride and ride hard.
I got into it a little late too, at 35. I ride almost every day now and i love it. No matter how hard my day was, i get on my bike and sometimes take the longer route home. I recently started filming every ride because you never know what you'll see. And its just nice to share what i see and the beautiful area i live in.
And it reminds me that i can still feel something. The sheer joy that comes from cruising on two wheels.
I want a bike because I want a cheap 2 wheel vehicle that I can work on and mod to my liking. I want a bike so I can feel different than everyone else and like sporty vehicles at the same time. I also wanted to learn how to drive a manual.
My parents don't like my interest in mechanics and other trades unless it's welding.
" I am constantly scanning and acting as if i am invisible " *running stop sign with car blocking view to the left while saying this 😂*
Motorcycle riding inadvertently helped with my panic attacks after the war. Like you. I didn't know what was happening. Motorcycle riding has helped throughout my life. Later, the bike got me out of my shell after a divorce. It got me out of the house in a new location and I made new friends.
I’m not overly spiritual but man you video popped in my feed and I’m realizing now at 40y/o I’m dealing with anxiety or depression. Literally lost my father out the blue 2 years ago and have been extremely angry for a while. I purchased a 3 wheeler and it has helped considerably. I never thought just being out in the open air would’ve had such a profound change on my mood and my way of thinking. So glad I came across this video to remind me that it’s ok to care for myself from time to time.
I am so happy you found something that works for you.
yes, I was disallowed to use current income for my MC. I bought it at 53..I got my license at 53. I withdrew funds from my rrsp and my spouse was blown away. I prayed for inspiration to deal with my mental health challenges. the answer came back to get a MC. so I followed that inspiration. normally I would not take that perceived risk, expose my family to the risk. the resistance directed my way was understandable....not to be written about.... my path and goal is to grow, heal, support others and be a role model for my family. so no it was not a midlife crisis it was a what do I need to do to stay alive.
Hope it goes well for you.
@@CaffeineAndGasoline thank you. the mc community is very supportive and expansive..the relationships I am investing in are transformative and exactly what I need to be more assertive, exploratory and healthy. perfect outcome, uncomfortable at first and understandable resistance. growth and change can occur in many forms and it is.
Thank you for sharing this video! I can totally relate and this is why I plan to join the MC community. It has been on my spirit for a while and now I’m finally gonna take the step forward. 🫡
Thanks for being a real man and talking about this. Dealt with the same thing before riding. Also in Ontario so this riding season couldn't have come sooner! Thanks again and ride safe brother.
Fellow dad here, I also was concerned even during some of my rides if I was making the mistake of not spending enough time with family. Important to not undervalue the importance of self care. Good video!
Excellent job explaining and illustrating this issue! I’m right there with you. I also started riding at 44. I deal with the trifecta: anxiety, depression, and ADHD.
That’s why I have 5 bikes! Thanks brother
so much truth spoken in your video man! and btw, speaking of getting into motorcycling, i just turned 36 and tomorrow im having my 1st hour of msf class, (its called something different in my country). clear roads ahead, ill be joining those like soon : ). covid did not do it for me but seeing those tourers going through Europe did.
Great video! I got on the bike at 39 and it has helped tons for anxiety and de-stressing. also riding a dark horse. Love that bike! Thank you for the video!
So happy to hear that. I love hearing about different self-care strategies.
„No one can see me and everyone else is drunk“ - murrica!
Great topic.. Something the head of a household gets forgotten, as he is always expected to deliver and be there for the family. One way for me to deal is have a routine of 'ME TIME'. Maybe it gardening, riding or travelling.. essential to have me time. Also not being scared of opening up.
It's a serious issue, but can certainly be overcome with a bit of effort.
Never had anxiety problems or such but I will say after about an hour ride I can hardly stay awake I'm so zoned.
I do believe it's a form of meditation. Doing dangerous things require total concentration in the moment. So everything else goes away just like meditation.
This is why people skydive, climb, go fast, ect. Whether they know it or not.
Firefighting/medical is good for this too in my experience.
Currently 68, will turn 69 in 3weeks, started riding this spring (May 2024). I wish I had started earlier. I couldn’t believe how de-stressing it is to ride. My goal is to stay fit and flexible so I can ride for 10 years. Agree totally with your comments.
Well said man. I can totally relate to every sentence. Here in UK we've got a support group called Mental Health Motorbike. These things are some common - if you think you're "defected" or alone with it you don't even know how common things like anxiety are. I know this too well myself.
Well said brother!!
I just came across your channel a few days ago from an exhaust video. I’ve just purchased a 2019 Chief dark horse and my brother is getting a 2020 Chieftain, both from the Indian dealer in Oakville. Hoping to have them delivered by next week.
Watching this video, it felt like you were talking about me. I’m 37 and picked up riding a year and a half ago as well. I wanted an old project car but felt it was much cheaper to get an old bike I can work on and build up for much cheaper. It was same for me, I didn’t realize how much it helped my anxiety until winter came and I couldn’t ride anymore. I too had been on medication for anxiety and then went off it once I started riding.
Now in the winter I try to survive by planing modifications for my bike, car or experimenting with some wood working etc.
I’m planning to set up my Chief for two up riding with my wife so I’ll definitely be coming to you for advice on that.
I’m not far from you and I ride most of these roads in your videos. Maybe this season we can go on some rides together and grab a coffee.
Looking forward to your future mods as well!
I am in Milton. Send me a PM and we'll go ride together. I actually wanted a car project too! I am now starting to order car parts (6-8 months delay these days on everything) and am hoping to do the project next winter.
You da man very well said.
Thank you for such a honest and compassionate video. I truly truly truly appreciate this. Keep up the good work because you never know who you may help. God Bless.
Fantastic video, many thanks.
It's real nice that you've addressed this issue. I can relate all too well. I'm trying to fight this monster at this time in my life. You seem like a really nice, thoughtful person.
I just started riding at 47 years old am overweight I can't sleep I work 2 jobs iam sad depressed single no kids or wife since I've started riding it has helped me thou I just need friends to talk to all I do is work all the time
I'm 68, been riding since 19yrs old.....we bikers know these things !!! The actual bike riding is 80% and the other 20% is the biking community which are fantastic ! Good video !, Thanks
Thank you for sharing.
I get myself out of stress by silent prayer in a distant church especially ho riding my bike, confession and then riding my bike through the marvellous nature God has prepared for me.
Biking is my peace of mind. If I take the bike to work I am in a good mood even if the weather really bad. Then on the way back no matter how bad the day is the stress melts away the second my feet are up.
Nicely said. I also started motorcycling 15 years ago, in my early 40s, and it has been very therapeutic in respect to my mental health. I am a chronic over-thinker and have a role that exposes to a fair bit of vicarious trauma, and going for a ride helps. I have found long country rides more therapeutic than track days and commuting, but even those types of riding help too. I suspect the focus that comes from managing risk is part of the reason - I used to fly light aircraft and had the same response - but agree the sense that you are more part of the environment you pass through gives you a connection.
I feel the same way bro. I'm experiencing anxiety and activities such as riding motorcycles is therapeutic to alleviate the condition.
As a motorcycle-only old man I loved this honest exploration. Riding and wrenching really help me get in-the-moment!
Grate job. I have a wife that battles. She got worse on 9 11. Shortly after that, I got back on a motorcycle. She road with me and felt better. She got her on bike,and loved it .Then she got Hurt at work.She ended up disabled. So I stopped riding for 6 years.I got back on her bike, then moved back up to my Harley. Now I have 2 bikes and her bike. I need to ride ,to cope with her. I'm in my 50s. Thank God for fishing and motorcycles. Grate job on video.
Riding to just become. My Mom in the 1950's made me walk twenty minutes on the highway, all dressed, up every week to Sunday school, All by myself at six years old. The story of Jesus and, what maybe should have been a more simple concept. That of "God Within a Human". Once you learn to play with the concept, you are on your way!! The Chinese give Lucky Money in little red envelopes, to the kids at Chinese New Years to teach them another wonderful concept. That of a feeling within, of being "Happy Go Lucky". Now as an adult, with both these concepts in hand, I am able to, and do "Try to Love" more deeply and just let it all come through. "Just diggin' it" on a nice spring cruise, with my Yamaha Vstar time machine. Really glad you shared this video!
Thank you for the video.
This is great stuff, thanks for commenting on my video or I would never have seen it. I've added a link to this video in the description of mine as you have nailed so many of the point and issues around mens mental health. You have a new subscriber. Ride Safe
Oh wow, that's very kind. I am a big fan and did not comment to draw attention to my video. But thank you for talking about it
It give me part of my identity, helps me connect with my dads history and my childhood, give me chance to use crazy good physical skills…
Looks cool. Feels great.
Reminds me of time riding my bicycle when I was a distance athlete in teen hood.
Helps me connect with others.
Thanks for this video. I completely agree with you. Having a bike when I was younger I never felt anxious or depressed. I was a positive and happy guy. With my first child I sold the bike and didn’t rode for over ten years. I dealt with anger, depression, anxiety and overall bad health issues. I never thought this was linked to my passion of motorcycles. Now I bought a new iron horse, all my problems are gone. In my opinion the problem is that some men, especially fathers, think about their spouse and children first. It’s kind of not deserving being happy themselves. You work hard, you try to build a life around your family but you don’t think about yourself. It is good and not shameful to be selfish sometimes, but it’s not easy to overcome, especially when your wife doesn’t understand. The key is to get lose of social pressure and free your mind with something you really like.👍
I agree it increases your brain cognitivity 50 percent
I love motorcycles, if you do it enough lots of it becomes automatic. Then you have the time to explore parts of your mind it's almost like Zen state like 2 people in your head arguing both sides of the argument. While you ride the bike, very hard to talk to people about this. I used to find that the more fatigued I was, I could enter this state and seemingly function at a higher state. All the little stuff was auto pilot you know like mud, gravel sand rocks steep hills both up and down other bikes. So at any second you had leave that Zen like state supervise & solve the immediate problem. The rush got from being able to do this was the best drug in the world, I wish everyone could experience that.
I started riding when I was 23 for fun but now in my 40s the reasons have shifted along with the style of riding and bike. Went from sport bikes to Indian scout so the reasons and type of riding might change over the years.
My best friend calls me all the time to vent about his emotions and problems and I couldn’t be prouder of him for doing it. Yet I still can’t do it for myself. But practicing gratuity has helped me a lot.
Love the topic. You hit the nail on the head. If you’re open to it….I say start a trial period Zoom meeting for bikers (men or men and women). Maybe for an hour and open up a dialogue on this important topic of Mental Health…and we each deal with it, what remedies each has found that works. This could be a pure sharing session. I will be the first to sign on. I too deal w/anxiety and started riding in my 50’s….riding has made a huge difference.
That's a brilliant idea!
Yes....I would like to support launching this idea. How can I help?
They tell me motorcycles are dangerous, but 25 years ago an old Honda saved my life. No amount of therapy or special pills would help. But something about the wind and the noise and having to focus on the *right now* makes everything OK. Thanks for the video, may you ride safely, and may that Indian never get a scratch.
Interesting topic. I always wanted to ride a motorcycle, but I only got me one 6 years ago (I was 47) when my father passed away. I couldn't buy one before respecting my father who lost a son in a motorcycle accident. motorcycling is more than fun, I agree totally with you, it's therapy. I live 5 minutes walking from my work, but I take an hour long tour before coming to work. My problem is that this country is so tiny for motorcycling. I live in palestine, or the occupied Palestinian Territories, a place so tiny, only a 120 miles its longest route, and full of checkpoints, walls, fences, hostile lands everywhere. it's like a hopscotch. nevertheless, I ride everyday. in winter, it's even better, less hot. it does not get that cold here. living in this tiny country, full of political turmoils, in addition to family/work/existential issues, motorcycling is the only little freedom i get. but I don't feel invisible, on the contrary...
Are you safe brother ? Prayers... Pray for all those who are affected in both sides. God bless.
I understand my Brother!!
I really like doing week long rides. Gives me something to look forward to. And I really feel alive when I’m riding. My only wish is that I had more time to do the long rides. It really helps with depression
I tried riding a motorcycle at the Harley Davidson riding academy yesterday, for the first time ever. It was one of the worst experiences I’ve ever had, and I’ve been dead twice, sexually assaulted, and had to take sick leave for mental health issues.
Thanks for being real!💪🏽💯
Excellent vid man. Much love & respect 👍
Such a warm and wise video, thank you 🙏 I have PTSD anxiety and depression. I have a small collection of Royal Enfield motorcycles and they help me so much! Just fixing them up and going for a ride to explore new and beautiful places gives me so much joy. By the way what motorcycle are you riding? Stay well friend 😊
I’ve been riding since 2006, my anxiety and depression started probably 2014 It seems like nothing helps it. It’s so hard for me to focus and enjoy my ride when I’m being tore apart, I have no reason to be it might be the overthinking. The loneliness and getting older really does suck. HATE IT.
Good talking content and thank you for sharing.
Watch those stop signs😮
If you look at my life its going oretty well like every friend that i have is gonna say that im a very funy, happy and energetic guy but not when im not with them.
It was a nice day and one of my friends got his motorbike licence and he bought an aprilia RS 125 without blocade so basicly it has 18kw instead of 10.
He said if i wanna try to ride it and ofc i sad yes so i got on the bike and start it.
I start very slow ofc until i hited that 6k rpm and it just boosted me from 40km/h to 120 in 5 sec (dond judge me it was alot for me😅) and i felt that power of the motorbike for the furst time and it was so peaceful when i drove 170km/h alone and not in the car for the first time .
It was just me the wind and the bike
All of my problems just disapired in thin air.
Other people use drugs, pills, bubble baths, gym... to make their problems go away and i choused motorbikes.
If you deal with depression try to find that thing that makes you happy and enjoy every second of it.
Have a great day
N.S.
Thanks for posting such an important topic. I started riding at 50. I also never did anything for myself because of guilt. The pandemic has pushed me way, way past my normal ability to cope. Riding has helped. I did two long rides this year alone to just think and be with the bike. I still felt guilty about doing it.
Now winter is here. My riding has almost stopped except for an occasional dry day here and there. Wrenching on bikes helps some, but not like riding.
We're like the same people! Solo long rides rock honestly. Feel no guilt, you deserve some 'me time'.
@@CaffeineAndGasoline I sent your video to my wife. She said she still doesn't understand, but maybe it's just a guy thing. Lol. She doesn't mind, but also just doesn't understand.
@@jasonshortphd Good luck brother. There's nothing wrong with some self-care.
@@CaffeineAndGasoline yes self care, self advocacy, boundaries and leadership....awesome. I am interested in helping support set up of a video call.
When I ride my motorcycle, all my problems melt away the moment I pull the bike out of the garage.
Well said! You’ve got a great vibe and it a big heart it seems. I dig it. It’s a been a tough couple of years. I bought my dream bike a 2016 Indian Chief Classic in November 2020. Being in a global pandemic has taught me to find a better balance to living in the moment. My wife and lived in Brampton and moved to Hamilton so that we could afford to live off 1 salary. It’s working very well. It would be very cool to hang out and grab a coffee sometime.
For sure. Are you on FB?
Yes, Andrei Losinski
@@andreilosinski6228 Request sent: Zeeshan Hamid
Growing up in a dysfunctional family, I became hypervigilant to my surrounding to be safe. As an adult, this hypervigilance is now a burden. Riding M/C's requires full concentration and forces the brain to pay attention to the road and stops the hypervigilance which, for me, is where the therapeutic benefit lies.
Love to all of us..MC .. was my way to go as well after my divorce… after a 22 yrs of marriage… wind , gas and rumble was my way to cope with it..
I agree with you most of thing you said I started riding motorbike 2 years ago and I love it Nc750x and it works for me I have had lot of friends making comments like I'm going to kill myself blah blah my birthday coming up in Feb I will be 70 year's age.best thing happen to me riding motorcycle😊
Wish I could do a Teams presentation on my bike, I wouldn’t stress about it 😂
Getting rid of anxiety on on bike
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Hey I got to this video right before leaving to work but I enjoyed the video very much. I would like to get in touch with you.
But just asking, will it not be risky to ride a motorcycle when someone has anxiety disorder. Because I too have anxiety and I am thinking to get a new motorcycle for riding. So thinking if it’s all right to get myself a new bike and ride it despite the condition I am in?
"I ride to deal with anxiety because when you're riding basically everyone is trying to kill you." Not exactly the best sell out of context, but being real yeah the riding mentality really is meditative in a sense.
I learned how to really ride a year ago. I'm 28 got my first z400 and I'm nervous. I can ride but I still am jittery. They say that's a good thing. I wasn't comfortable on an sv 650 (hated it) and cruisers weren't quite for me. so I learned in an empty lot on a drz400 dual sport. Now I own my own z400. I really love my bike. I however this season really wanna do it up right. I suffer ADHD but I'm confident in the clutch but a tad nervous about the roads. Sticking to country riding. I'm most nervous about stops and turns.would CBD or ADHD medicine help? I'm mature enough to handle and make healthy choices. But really don't want to get f'd up lol. Illinois drivers are the prob in Michigan
We're programmed to bring up children but after that there can be a void. You have to find something to fill the gap.
Is it wrong to spend some money on bike upgrades to cope up with anxiety? It's just that I feel so guilty spending money for my own sake and not for my family. Riding motorcycles and modifying it helps me forget about all my anxieties. When I don't ride, the void inside of me grows back in like a black hole sucks matter into it. My fiance knows nothing about what I'm dealing with. I'm a man after all, I could'nt share to anyone else my problems. ' have to deal with my own'. That's always have been my thought. I guess I'm totally wrong, I need help. I wish I could talk to someone else without judging me along.
made my life miserable.... Got attacked 2 times and a truck driver jerked the steering wheel and came at me head on.....
.... Didn't do anything for me
12:25 tldr;
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