In Toronto, a cycling commute is an enjoyable way to get fresh air and exercise and it’s also an opportunity to be mindful. That kind of enjoyment of a mundane aspect of life is enhanced with mindfulness and insight meditation.
With insight, we can be less distracted by what we are trying to achieve in our professional and personal lives and more observant of what is happening in the present moment. Insight shows us the value of present moment awareness which we should maintain as often as possible. This is how the Buddha instructed us in mindfulness of the body:
…Furthermore, when going forward & returning, he makes himself fully alert; when looking toward & looking away… when bending & extending his limbs… when carrying his outer cloak, his upper robe & his bowl… when eating, drinking, chewing, & savoring… when urinating & defecating… when walking, standing, sitting, falling asleep, waking up, talking, & remaining silent, he makes himself fully alert…*
Applying this instruction to our daily commute, we have a perfect opportunity to practice mindfulness as we make our way to work.