Motorcycling is My Therapy

I’m an avid motorcyclist. I log quite a few miles each year from the saddle of my bike, and it’s something that brings me a lot of joy.

I often hear others in the motorcycle world make some form of the statement that motorcycling is their therapy. And I get what they’re saying! There’s something quite therapeutic about being on 2 wheels on a twisty mountain road feeling the wind in your face and the rumble of the motorcycle’s engine. It is therapeutic! 

With that being said, I do think it’s important to differentiate between something that is therapeutic and actual therapy. Although they are similar, they are not the same thing. Many things can be therapeutic and bring about a profound (albeit temporary) feeling of relief. However, these things are different than the work a person does when they commit to seeking professional therapy. 

One is about a feeling of temporary catharsis that can trigger joy, relief, peace, or even thrill. The other is the long work of bettering yourself by confronting deep seated beliefs that can have unfortunate control over life. 

Another way I like to think of it is this: going to a professional massage therapist and getting a deep tissue massage is incredibly therapeutic. It can provide some relief to sore muscles, bring about a state of deep relaxation, or work out some of the knots built up from daily stress. Even though a massage provides some or all of these things, it is very different than something like physical therapy or a regular gym routine (see my previous post related to this topic). These are things that build strength and can help you address physical issues at the root. One provides temporary relief while the other sets you up for long term health. 

Both have their place in the life of a healthy person in the same way that therapeutic practices and psychotherapy have their place in a well balanced life. For me, motorcycling is very therapeutic, and it provides me with important psychic relief when I need it. But it is not my therapy. Therapy is my therapy! The long work I practice with my own personal therapist brings me insight that will lead toward a life of mental health. And it’s not always that therapeutic if I’m being honest. Sometimes it’s hard and painful (much like physical therapy can be!), and I don’t necessarily want to do it. But I do because I know it will take me down a path I need to be on. 

Think about all of those things in your life that are therapeutic. They’re important! Whether that be riding a motorcycle or working in the garden or building a bookshelf in your garage. They all have their place, but they aren’t a substitute for the hard work of psychotherapy.