Pedal power for mental health
On a mountain bike and with her furry friend in tow, a Christchurch woman will cycle the length of New Zealand on the road to recovery.
In 2012, Leisa McNaughton’s mental health was compromised and she became a recluse.
The 47-year-old had been working in a sales and marketing role, which covered the South Island, when she became burnt out.
‘‘It’s overload to the point where you just shut down. And when it happens at an extreme level that is when people run into trouble,’’ she said.
‘‘I just needed to recover mentally, physically and spiritually.’’
McNaughton is now preparing to cycle the length of New Zealand with her best friend, Indy – part Border Collie and Bernese Mountain dog.
Not content with sticking to the roads, she will cycle part of the Nga Haerenga, The New Zealand Cycle Trail. She is encouraged others to join her along the way and gain sponsorship for their involvement.
‘‘My hope is that families, including the kids, though anyone is welcome, will join me on the tracks.’’
In October, McNaughton will launch her four-month journey from Cape Reinga to Bluff, with beloved dog, Indy. The route will be divided into 13 different zones – each with a different charity to benefit.
She had been a keen multisport athlete and had hiked in Nepal, mountain-biked in Canada and the United States and adventure raced in New Zealand.
‘‘I’ve got all the background and experience and most of the gear.’’
McNaughton leaves for her adventure in September, ahead of a presentation at Birkenhead College in Auckland.
It was the first of what she hoped would be many presentations to young New Zealanders to make the trip a learning experience.
About six years ago, McNaughton and Indy ‘‘chose each other’’ at the SPCA.
‘‘While I was at home through the worst of it [mental illness], he was my absolute faithful companion. They don’t judge – they are just there.’’
Indy will have a speciallydesigned chariot, attached to the bike, to rest in during the cycle tour.
‘‘I love being on my bike and I’m looking forward to sharing the experience with as many people as possible.’’
For McNaughton, her recovery had revolved around the idea of self acceptance.
‘‘What I know now is I have a lot more self knowledge and that enables me to put the brakes on and know what the triggers are that cause issues and that aren’t good for me.’’ She said everyone needed someone professional or not, that was not a family member or friend, they could turn to when times were tough.
* McNaughton’s progress can be tracked through Facebook.