Einstein & The Art of Mindful Cycling

1. Einstein's Balanced Mind: A Model for Mindful Living

There are two ways to live life: as though nothing is a miracle, and as though everything is.

Embrace wonder. Einstein, despite his genius, lived a life of balanced contradictions – rebel yet revolutionary, loner yet humanitarian, scatterbrain yet campaigner. His worldview harmonized the local and global, individual and social, creative and practical. This balance stemmed from a state of wonder, a passionate curiosity about everything around him, living as if constantly enthralled by the world's miracles.

Mindfulness is curiosity. Living mindfully means being curious and paying attention to the present moment, rather than operating on autopilot or getting lost in distractions. It's a practical skill, like exercise, that can be improved through practice, such as meditation, which helps us observe thoughts and feelings without judgment, leading to greater awareness of the external world. This state of curious awareness is the foundation of a balanced mind.

Achieving balance. The book argues that cycling can help anyone achieve this same mindful balance that characterized Einstein. By threading together practical skills, individual expression, local connection, and global perspective, cycling allows us to rise above the hectic modern world and shape our views for the better. It's a dream machine that blends meditation with movement, curiosity with velocity, and mindfulness with mudguards.

2. Cycling Cultivates a Practical, Realistic Outlook

Belief in an external world independent of the perceiving subject is the basis of all natural science.

Grounded in reality. Einstein, despite his abstract theories, possessed a strong practical awareness, evident in his patent work and everyday decisions. He insisted on the existence of an external world independent of opinion, a core tenet of science. This realistic mindset, valuing truth over subjective views, is essential for understanding and working with the material world.

Working with things. A "life of invention" isn't just about creating devices, but having a general talent for understanding and working with material things. Einstein's early life, surrounded by his family's electrical business and his own tinkering, fostered this aptitude. His patent work further honed his critical spirit, appreciation for simplicity, and ability to imagine how ideas function in reality.

Mindful of reality. Cycling brings us in tune with reality. Unlike modern life, which often screens us from the world through bewildering technology, narcissism about possessions, or virtual experiences, cycling demands practical engagement. It encourages us to understand how things work, be prepared, and appreciate the material world directly, fostering a healthy materialism that counters modern immaterialism.

3. The Bicycle: A Simple Masterpiece of Invention

Everything should be made as simple as possible, but not simpler.

A journey of invention. The bicycle, seemingly simple, was the result of a century-long quest for a human-powered vehicle, evolving through stages from the "running machine" (Draisine) to the "boneshaker" and "high wheeler." This collaborative history, involving numerous innovators like Karl von Drais, Pierre Michaux, and John Kemp Starley, reminds us that great inventions come from persistent effort and teamwork.

Mechanical brilliance. The modern "safety" bicycle, perfected by Starley and enhanced by Dunlop's pneumatic tyre, is a masterpiece of simple engineering. Its chain drive, equal-sized wheels, diamond frame, and pneumatic tyres combine rigidity, suppleness, efficiency, and comfort. Examining its components reveals ingenious mechanisms developed over decades.

Accessible understanding. The bicycle's simplicity means anyone can understand its workings, fostering practical skills like maintenance. This hands-on experience builds confidence in dealing with material things and complex challenges. Unlike many modern technologies that bewilder us, the bicycle encourages practical awareness and self-reliance, embodying Einstein's principle of keeping things simple but effective.

4. Freewheeling Ignites Independence and Creativity

Long live impudence, it is my guardian angel in this world.

Childlike freedom. Einstein retained a childlike free spirit and impudence throughout his life, questioning authority and defying tradition. This rebellious streak, evident from his youth, fueled his creativity and allowed him to probe problems more deeply than others. He saw impudence as his "guardian angel" in challenging conventional thinking.

Unforgettable exhilaration. The first bike ride is often an unforgettable experience of independence and freedom, allowing children to explore further and faster. This feeling of liberation persists into adulthood, making cyclists feel like kids again. Compared to other transport, bikes offer unparalleled freedom to choose routes, avoid congestion, and explore hidden places, rewarding curiosity and encouraging expansiveness.

Active resting. Einstein used activities like playing the violin and cycling as "active resting" to stimulate his mind and creativity. Cycling's rhythm and movement can induce a similar state, leading to a surge in creativity and "light bulb moments." This direct self-expression through creative pursuits, rather than indirect expression through fashionable possessions, is a hallmark of the individual attitude fostered by cycling.

5. Cycling Fosters Flow and Determination

Life is like riding a bicycle. To keep your balance you must keep moving.

Entering the zone. Cycling, with its rhythmic motion and engagement with the environment, can easily induce a state of flow – complete absorption in the task where self-consciousness fades. This state, like Einstein's intense concentration, is not only enjoyable but also primes the mind for focused activity after the ride, making you more alert, calm, and productive.

Momentum and resilience. When feeling tired or downtrodden, cycling provides momentum and direction. It escalates a flicker of determination into sustained effort, especially when facing challenges like hills or bad weather. This enhanced determination, cultivated on the bike, carries over into other areas of life, helping you push through difficulties and strive to be your best.

Road rebels. Cycling often requires a rebellious streak to navigate public indifference or hostility. However, this impudence grows with every ride, fostering confidence and conviction. Cyclists learn to rise above negativity and feel assured in their choice, a feeling that infuses the rest of their day and prepares them to stand up for themselves, embodying a determined, freethinking spirit.

6. Round the Block: Connecting with Local Community

People who live in a society, enjoy looking into each other’s eyes, who share their troubles, who focus their efforts on what is important to them and find this joyful – these people lead a full life.

Knowing your place. Cycling enhances local awareness, turning familiar surroundings into something enthralling. Unlike navigating on autopilot in cars or public transport, being on a bike allows you to observe details, read between the lines of the urban landscape, and engage in "mindful going," making your local area come alive.

Communal spirit. On a bike, you notice fellow citizens more directly – faces, movements, voices. Generic people become high-resolution human beings. Smiling at passersby, chatting with other cyclists, or simply being among people fosters a sense of belonging and community spirit, even during mundane commutes, which are often the unhappiest time of day for non-cyclists.

Sociable activity. Cycling is a great way to socialize, creating shared memories and strengthening bonds between friends, families, and lovers. Whether exploring together, racing, or simply stopping for a chat, the camaraderie and shared experience foster connection. It's a joyful activity that brings people together, creating a bond that lasts.

7. Cycling Promotes Modesty and Inclusivity

I consider that plain living is good for everybody, physically and mentally.

Plain living, high thinking. Einstein embodied modesty and simple tastes, preferring plain living and attire over extravagance. This unpretentious outlook extended to his interactions, where he treated everyone with respect and humility, regardless of status. He believed plain living was beneficial physically and mentally, fostering a focus on what truly matters.

A great leveller. Cycling cultivates a modest mindset. Being at close quarters with others on the road encourages humility and empathy, fostering direct, open interactions. Cyclists often prioritize practical clothing and bike performance over fashion or status symbols, declining to show off. This focus on function over fashion, and the inherent accessibility of cycling, makes it a great leveller, bringing people together as they are.

Accessible to all. Cycling has a long history of inclusivity, notably contributing to the emancipation of women in the 19th century by providing freedom of movement and encouraging practical dress. Today, it remains accessible to people of all ages, fitness levels, and even many disabilities, thanks to various bike designs. The simple pleasures of cycling are available to virtually anyone, fostering equality and shared experience.

8. Round the World: Expanding Global Horizons

Our task must be to free ourselves from the prison by widening our circle of compassion to embrace all living creatures and the whole of nature in its beauty.

Beyond the local. Einstein urged widening our circle of compassion beyond ourselves to embrace all living creatures and nature. His own life as a "bird of passage," moving between countries and cultures, expanded his horizons and fostered a global perspective. Cycling, too, can extend our limits and horizons, whether through racing or roaming, offering new perspectives on the world.

Pushing boundaries. Long-distance cycling pushes physical and mental limits, charting a spectacular expansion of human capability. From early feats like riding hundreds of miles in days to modern endurance races like the Tour de France and Race Across America, cyclists have continuously redefined what's possible. Reflecting on this history adds inspiration to any ride, showing the power of human endeavor.

Experiencing scale. Cycle touring, a more leisurely form of long-distance cycling, allows for a deeper encounter with the world's stunning natural beauty and man-made structures. Carrying only essentials reminds you of your place in the vastness of nature. This direct, unencumbered experience magnifies the sense of scale and grandeur, revealing a world more profound and beautiful than often perceived in everyday life.

9. Cycling Reveals Our Common Humanity

The only salvation for civilization and the human race lies in the creation of a world government.

One human race. Einstein's extensive travels and interactions convinced him that, despite cultural differences, all people belong to one human race, sharing basic biological, mental, and emotional characteristics. This observation deepened his empathy and sense of kinship with humanity, leading him to become a self-styled "citizen of the world" and advocate for international cooperation.

Finding common ground. When cycle touring, encountering far-flung communities in an unencumbered state enhances your sense of communion. Dependence on locals for necessities encourages you to connect on a deeper level, starting with a smile and seeking mutual understanding beyond superficial differences. You peer beneath the surface of culture and find the shared core of humanity.

Integration and values. The history of humanity is one of increasing integration, from small groups to a global community. Einstein believed world government was necessary for peace, seeing unity as the path forward. Cycling, by fostering connection and empathy across communities and cultures, aligns with this vision of a united world. It encourages treating others as we wish to be treated, embodying the "golden rule" and demonstrating how values can benefit everyone.

10. Mindful Cycling Leads to Happiness and Wellbeing

The bicycle is its own best argument.

Evaporating gloom. Cycling has a powerful positive effect on mood, making it almost impossible to be in a bad mood while riding. Studies show it protects against mental disorders like depression and anxiety, partly due to exercise-induced endorphins and the healthy body/mind connection. This happiness persists after the ride, infusing the rest of your day.

Personal control over happiness. Cycling brings many causes of happiness under personal control. It boosts intelligence and learning by making you more receptive after exercise. It reduces financial stress through affordability. It offers security through reliability and predictability. These benefits, combined with the inherent joy of the activity, make cycling a powerful tool for increasing overall wellbeing.

A powerful argument. As Richard Ballantine noted, "The bicycle is its own best argument." While some perceive cycling as dangerous, studies show health benefits outweigh risks significantly. Cycling is a highly accessible form of exercise with minimal injury risk, easily integrated into daily life. It offers freedom, connection, practical skills, and a mindful perspective, making it a compelling path to a happier, more balanced life.

Last updated: June 11, 2025