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THE ENVIRONMENT
TRI-CITY NEWS FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2015, A21
Getting from A to B in a healthier & happier way LIVING GREEN
MELISSA CHAUN
M
any of us start a new year with resolutions to improve our health but how many of us actually succeed? Headline news continues to report the rise in childhood obesity and diabetes while mental wellness is evermore a topic at top of mind. Last July, the Canadian Medical Association Journal released updated requirements for Vitamin D. Although 10 to 15 minutes of sunlight, on average, is sufficient exposure for your body to make the “sunshine vitamin,” wearing sunscreen can compromise this. Moreover, your body can struggle to accomplish this in the winter season, depending on where you live. Recently, CBC Radio interviewed Kathryn Rose, head of orthoptics at the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia, who has been studying the rise in childhood myopia (short-sightedness), strongly correlated with an increase in time spent indoors. In short, we are living far more sedentary lives than did previous generations, and to the detriment of our well-being. Although I own a small, fuelefficient vehicle, I have, over the years, averaged driving just once a week. Even though ICBC does not reward me much for doing so, I believe my overall health has. Since my university student days, I have owned and operated a well-oiled bicycle and have come to realize that choice is a wonderful thing. Deciding to run home from the office twice a week, regardless of the weather, has really worked for me. When the office is far away, I run the first portion and catch the bus for the remainder, working up to longer distances, if so desired. I use a mini knapsack, just enough to carry some water and light rain gear (hat and gloves for the cooler weather) so when I finish, I can stay hydrated and prevent chills. Whether biking or running, I wear a reflective sash and/ or sleeveless vest, and keep a
few bus tickets on hand, just in case. Some people understandably get nervous when thinking about cycling in traffic. As with anything new, it takes time to build one’s confidence but the truth remains, one is safer riding a bicycle in the city than getting behind the wheel of a vehicle — just make sure you have good front and rear lights (and back-ups in case they run out of power before you get to your destination), and the more reflective features you can wear, the better. But you don’t have to run or bike to get exercise. Walking is wonderfully low impact and allows you to savour the sights and smells even more than driving. The key is to identify a routine that will work with your weekly schedule. That way, regardless of the weather, you have packed your gear and off you go. When my workplace did not have showers, I would either save my active commute for the return home or I would cycle to work until the big hill, catching the bus for the last segment. Using Metro Vancouver’s bicycle maps (translink.ca/ en/Getting-Around/Cycling/ Cycling-Maps.aspx), I have discovered hidden jewels off the beaten track — neighbourhoods that nurture their heritage character, pockets of garden oases — all the while enjoying the distinctive smells and sounds of the changing seasons: the sweetness of cherry blossoms, the growing chorus of bird song. When you arrive home, you will likely feel refreshed, not exhausted, and inspired to eat extra well, knowing your body has earned it. By incorporating active commuting in your weekly routine, you will not only save money on gas and vehicle wear-and-tear but, also, the environment, your mind, body and soul will thank you, not to mention your family, friends and the neighbourhood. Need a push to start your own active commute on two wheels? May 25 to 31 is Bike to Work Week. Visit bikehub.ca/ bike-to-work for information and to register. Melissa Chaun of Port Moody is an ecologist with a passion for all things sustainable. She has a certificate in Sustainable Community Development and volunteers on various city committees, and is currently co-ordinating the monthly meetings for Tri-City Greendrinks. Her column runs monthly.
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“By incorporating active commuting in your routine,” writes Melissa Chaun, “you will not only save money on gas and vehicle wear-andtear but, also, the environment, your mind, body and soul will thank you, not to mention your family, friends and the neighbourhood.”
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