Team Conscious joined forces with SoulCycle in Bryant Park for a charity Issue 04 release ride to support the Dave Nee Foundation. It was a sunny day in the middle of New York City as we strapped into our gear, dimmed the lights and turned the music up. An added bonus was that we had the privilege of being instructed by Issue 04 feature and SoulCycle instructor, Ryan Steinman.

The ride was not easy, however, it was remarkable. Ryan is not only a skilled instructor; he is a powerful motivator that took us beyond cycling and sweat. “You got this. Believe in yourself. Trust yourself. That will build your courage. And, when there’s something or someone you are fighting for, life is more meaningful. That to me is what Conscious Magazine is all about.” – Ryan Steinman. Moments following, “This Is My Fight Song” swept the airwaves and we were ready for battle!

As a united front, we were riding together to support a vital cause. Ryan, who is also a passionate advocate against the stigma of mental illness, chose the Dave Nee Foundation specifically to help raise awareness and funds for their organization. The Dave Nee Foundation’s mission is to eliminate the stigma that is associated with depression and suicide by promoting and encouraging not only the diagnosis and treatments of depression among young adults, but also to educate young people, their families and friends about the disease of depression. They desire to change the conversation and spread a different message that treatment for depression and suicide is socially acceptable.

There were over 45 cyclers in attendance; among us were some our Conscious members and friends, family and changemakers. Together we challenged ourselves, pushed limitations and road for an important cause.

Scope out the photos on our Facebook page and through our CONSCIOUSIssue04 tag on Instagram.

Read more of Ryan Steinman’s story when you grab your copy of Conscious Issue 04, our Powerful Voices edition. To learn more about the Dave Nee Foundation and their mission, visit their website.