Getting back in the saddle....

[rebeccaC]

I wouldn’t force myself back into bicycling until I was ready psychologically. Just as everyone recovers from physical injuries at different rates, everyone requires a different amount of time to recover from psychological trauma. Maybe take up another activity, yoga, long walks etc. to keep up your fitness level until you’re ready to bike again.

I second the idea of off road trail riding. That may help with building your confidence level up, keep you fit and might open up more bike adventures for you. For riding on the road maybe do it in small groups, friends/bike clubs, to feel the safety of numbers.

I also second the idea of seeking professional help if not being able to bike without feeling very anxious continues for very long. A professional can help you by analyzing where your fears are coming from, helping you face your fears and teaching you techniques or exercises to help you through your anxiety and build your confidence up.

Part of my identity comes from bicycling. It’s an outlet for my emotions (sometimes even needing physical pain to eclipse physiological pain) and it builds my physical strength, inner strength and confidence. If I found myself unable to ride because of a physiological trauma I would certainly go to a professional to help me work through it, just like I would for a physical problem that kept me from riding.

Hoping you find your way back to bicycling soon Blueberry!!!!!!!

[shootingstar]

It's awful about the latest cycling fatalities and injuries in your area, Blueberry.

Give yourself time. In the mean time, hope you will pursue other non-cycling passions.

[Wahine]

(((((Blueberry)))))

I hear you. I struggle with these thoughts all the time. I'm fortunate enough to live in a place where these things happen infrequently. But they happen and I find myself increasingly anxious when riding. Mostly when riding with others because unfortunately, the riders around here are often unsafe in their behavior, so I've pretty much stopped riding with other people.

I'll be thinking of you and hoping you find a way past his.