how much does state of mind effect your cycling?

[shootingstar]

I found anger, deep anger got dissipated by cycling for me. It actually helps me release anger. There is nothing like pounding along up a hill...

However when I feel quite sad, then most definitely my cycling speed and efficiency is affected. Cycling doesn't make me feel whole lot better when I miss some loved ones. However, I know for myself it is still alot better for me, just to clunk along slowly on bike even when I'm feeling sad.

[lph]

When I'm angry I tend to be upset or sad too. (I guess that's because I'm usually angry at someone, not something, which makes me feel out of balance with the world.) In general I have trouble exercising hard when that happens, it really sucks energy out of me. Not that I can't use the adrenaline and endorphins, but I find it hard to focus and find the energy I need because my mind is working like a hamster on a wheel already.

Plain uncomplicated sad, like after someone's death, it's easier to bike, and it helps a lot more.

[Jiffer]

I agree that it can go both ways. Cycling can help shake off a bad emotional state, but it can also cause poor performance. The first time I was fully aware of the latter was not with myself, but with my friend. We were doing a usual ride and she wasn't feeling so great so I was doing most the pulling. The further we went, the slower we went and it was clear she was REALLY not doing well, very uncharacteristic for her. We pulled over and she started to cry. I found out she was going through something pretty deep. We turned around and went to a coffee place and she unloaded on me.

I've experienced both as well. I think it depends on how deep the emotional turmoil is as to whether a ride can help or just be miserable. Sometimes it can help even though you can only go at a slow speed. Just getting out and lolly gagging can be therapeutic, but sometimes riding as hard as you possible can can help get your aggressions out if you are physically able.