This month we’re focusing on all things mental health and being active and taking part in exercise is a great way to make you feel good and clear your mind.
Not only is physical activity associated with lower rates of depression and anxiety, but it can also give you more energy, improve your sleep, boost your immune system, and reduce the impact of stress. Sign us up!
Our crew from across Cunard and P&O Cruises have been keeping up their activity levels both onboard and ashore, by experiencing the brilliant benefits that cycling can bring. Here are some of their stories:
Joseph shares his passion for cycling:
Joseph Valencia Jumilla, Bosun, Queen Victoria:
“I started cycling back in 1997. I am MTB trail biker – so I use a bike that can endure the punishment of humps, jumps, rugged terrain and up and downhill climbs. I also compete when I’m on leave. While onboard I have my own MTB so I can pedal away from the ship any time to de-stress, sweat, explore my surroundings, and come back with a fresh mindset.
During the operational pause I introduced my deck team to spinning classes. At first, we had just two participants, but the classes have become so popular that we now don’t have enough bikes for everyone! We spin twice in a week in the guest gym and outside in the Pavilion pool area. We’ve built a cycling team of 15 strong Deckhands and went on to take part in a fundraising event for the RNLI while anchored in Weymouth, spinning for 42 kms!”
Joey and Laura’s Olden Adventure
Joey Carrigan, Human Resources Officer and Laura Terry, Human Resources Manager:
Olden is a small town in Norway, located in the heart of the stunning Jostedal glacier valley. The area is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Norway, including towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests. One of the best ways to experience the natural beauty of Olden is by cycling. There are many different cycling routes to choose from, ranging from short routes along the fjord, to more advanced routes through the mountains and past the glaciers.
“We recently went cycling in Olden using our Seafarers’ Welfare Committee (SWC) funded bikes. We set off on a route that took us through the mountains and past the glacier lakes. The scenery was simply stunning, and we were in awe of the beauty of the Norwegian landscape. We also stopped for a picnic lunch by the foot of one of the glacier lakes. It was a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. After lunch, we continued our cycling adventure – feeling refreshed, revitalised, and grateful that we were able to support our mental health and wellbeing in this way.
The highlight of our cycling trip was when Laura fell off her bike into the water! She wasn’t hurt (don’t worry!) but we got a good laugh out of it. And later when Joey was terrified of a giant bull roaming casually in the field. He kept yelling, “It’s coming right for us!” and pedaled away as fast as he could!
Back onboard Iona we had a good giggle at our own expense. It was also a reminder to be respectful of the wildlife in Norway and that even when things go wrong, it can still be a fun day out!”
Memories to last a lifetime.
Francisco Jurado Luna, International Host on Queen Victoria:
“I cycle a lot at home and barely use the car. I will always cycle if I can because it’s the most efficient. It’s fun, I save time, and it keeps me fit. I am not a professional cyclist, but it combines the two things I enjoy most, sports and exploring new places.
It’s great that we have to opportunity to borrow bikes onboard and make the most of our time ashore. It has had a huge positive impact on my physical health and mental wellbeing. It also makes a change from using the gym onboard. Having the chance to cycle through amazing landscapes in countries like Norway is a real privilege. It reminds me how lucky I am and recharges my batteries, so I go back onboard with a smile on my face. In my last six years with Cunard, I have great memories of cycling in Alaska, Japan, Australia, Norway, and Malaysia, among many others.”
