Overweight. Always tired. Stress levels maxed. Type II diabetes taking me on a never-ending rollercoaster ride. That was a description of my life only a year ago. Now I’m leaner, more energetic, off all meds, and happier. All because I started cycling.

If you followed me on social media then, you probably already know I’ve been dubbed as the “Pedaling Preacher.” People offered up hashtags like #pedalingpreacher and #pedalfasterpastor as I shared my fitness journey. It was not uncommon for people to message me or sometimes come up to me in public to tell me they were inspired. It felt good (odd but refreshing) to hear these kinds of remarks.

Honestly, a hobby changed my life. Yes, I know my hopes of winning the Tour de France it zilch, but I don’t want to imagine my life without it. It gave me an outlet to improve my physical health and have fun while doing it. But it also helped with my mental health too.

I have struggled with handling stress and anxiety for years. Often, I spend most of my time “in my head” without any physical exertion. That’s not good. Cycling gave me a positive way to cope with stress.

I’m writing to share that everyone needs a hobby, an outlet to express themselves. Cycling (and writing) happens to be mine. Do you have any hobbies that you enjoy? How do they impact your life? I’d love to hear about them in the comments section.

Honestly, a hobby changed my life!

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