Join your fellow clinicians for an afternoon of activity and community building proudly presented by East Bay Therapist Community (EBTC)!
We are stepping out of the office and onto the saddle to experience the "connection cure"—using movement and social belonging to recharge our own mental batteries.
Why Ride?
Cycling is more than just exercise; it is a powerful tool for emotional self-regulation. Research shows that even a brief ride can:
Boost Neurochemicals: Increase your production of serotonin, dopamine, and endorphins to elevate mood.
Reduce Clinical Stress: Lower cortisol levels and break the "rumination loops" that can follow a long week of holding space for others.
Build Belonging: Foster a sense of relatedness and shared identity with your peers, which is one of the strongest predictors of long-term health and happiness.
Seasonal Schedule (Fall 2026)
We have mapped out three unique community cruises, each beginning and concluding at an East Bay BART station to maximize convenience and transit accessibility. Meet at 2:00, Kickstands up at 2:30 PM:
Ride #1: Sep 20, 2026
Meeting Point: Lafayette BART station
Ride #2: Oct 18, 2026
Meeting Point: Rockridge BART station
Ride #3: Nov 8, 2026
Meeting Point: Ashby BART station
The Route: A mostly flat, 8-12 mile loop designed for mental restoration including REST BREAKS.
The Pace: This is a chill adult ride. We are here for the conversation and the scenery—no tricks or wheelies!
Rest & Refuel: We will have scheduled rest breaks with opportunities to purchase food and hydration.
A No-Drop Ride: We ride as one leaving no one behind.
All Bikes Welcome: Speed and distance traveled will be adjusted for bikes and riders in the group.
It’s Kind of a Party! Enjoy an inclusive playlist on the ride to power your pedals.
Experience & Leadership
This event is intentionally designed to provide a safe, supportive environment for all skill levels.
Coordinated by:Cristy Cash, AMFT,(she/her pronouns) Registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist supervised by Nes Pinar, LMFT and a therapist who understands the importance of clinicians connecting outside of clinical settings to prevent burnout.
Guest Ride Leader:Maria "Downhill Diva Outside,"(she/her pronouns),East Bay Bikes 2026 Bike Champion of the Year and certified bike instructor. Maria provides experienced and informed leadership to ensure the safety and comfort of the entire group. In addition to leading the ride, Maria will help with route planning and an orientation on safe riding practices before we start.
Preparation Checklist
To ensure a smooth ride for everyone, please come prepared with:
Bike Helmet
Hydration: Bring plenty of water.
A Serviced Bike: All bikes are welcome, but please ensure yours is in good working order.
Spare Tube: Please bring a tube that fits your specific tire size.
Support: Light mechanical support will be provided during the ride.
Need help finding repair? Email eastbaycycletherapist@gmail.com with a picture and description of your bike at least 72 hours before the event for resource suggestions.
Registration & Donations
This event is free to attend, as we believe in making the benefits of social and environmental enrichment accessible to all.
Register here or stay in the loop for future rides. We want to learn about you and your practice. Early registrants have the option to be introduced to the other riders through email to help you know your fellow riders.
A suggested donation of $5–$25 is encouraged for our ride leader to support her time and expertise. Donate what you can.
Come spend time on your bike, find your flow, and strengthen our clinical community!
More questions about the ride? Contact Cristy Cash, AMFT, & Ride Coordinator at Cristy Cash therapy@unfoldingstudiotherapy.com
References
HOVSCO. (2026, April 27). Mental benefits of cycling: Why a 20-minute ride beats traffic. https://www.hovsco.com/blogs/cargo-utility-e-bikes/mental-benefits-of-cycling-why-a-20-minute-ride-beats-traffic
Hotz, J. (2024). The connection cure: The prescriptive power of movement, nature, art, service, and belonging. Simon & Schuster.
Kulkarni, V. (2026, April 29). Cycling health benefits: Improve fitness and mental wellbeing. Canyon. https://www.canyon.com/en-sg/blog-content/advice/cycling-health-benefits/b13032026-4.html
Nowakowski, M., & Nowakowska, L. (2025). Cycling commuting as emotional self-regulation – A qualitative study based on self-determination theory. Annals of Agricultural and Environmental Medicine. https://doi.org/10.26444/aaem/213793