Healing From the Effects of Sexual Trauma Through Cycling

In 2022, the Colorado Equity Compass (CEC) awarded 20 organizations and community groups across Colorado $2,000 to share the stories of Colorado residents working to fight inequities related to the social determinants of health (SDOH), which determine an individual’s capacity for health, wellbeing and longevity. Sacred Cycle is a Colorado organization dedicated to “empowering survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault, through therapy and cycling.” Because of these efforts, the Colorado Equity Compass (CEC) has awarded Sacred Cycle $2,000 to share stories of recovery from sexual trauma through the lens of a past program participant whose identity will remain anonymous but whose story will be relatable to many.

The organization has created a series of infographics and a video to outline the devastating effects that sexual assault and abuse can have on a person’s mental health, wellbeing, sense of social connection, and relationship to their neighborhood and built environment.

View the descriptions of the graphics here and watch the video below: One Participant's Story of Healing

Our participant was the victim of sexual assault by a person she knew and trusted. To receive comprehensive medical care, she had to travel an hour away. She was placed on waitlists for therapy and told it would be a month before a therapist could see her. She lost her sense of self and felt hopeless. She was referred to Sacred Cycle by a friend. The combination of traditional therapy, group therapy, the natural mountain environment, and private mountain bike coaching allowed her to reconnect with her body. She became empowered, found community and support, and trust in people.

Past Participant's Testimonial of Healing_1

This woman experienced healing and a sense of community during and after her participation in the mountain bike and therapy program offered by The Sacred Cycle.

Past Participant's Testimonial of Healing_2

This woman experienced sexual assault by a person she knew and trusted. She participated in individual therapy, group therapy, private mountain bike coaching, and participant group rides offered by The Sacred Cycle. She felt a profound loss of power prior to participating in the program season. She has a renewed sense of self and continues to be active in the community created by the organization and past participants.

Past Participant's Testimonial of Healing_3

This woman experienced healing as a result of the programming offered by The Sacred Cycle. She discusses how finding community among survivors, therapy, and learning mountain biking as a physical activity in the mountain environment contributed to her healing.

Mental Health Resources are Scarce in Mountain Communities

This woman experienced sexual assault by a person she knew and trusted. To receive medical treatment, she had to travel an hour away. To receive therapy, it was a month before a provider was available. She turned to The Sacred Cycle and joined the summer programming season.

Sexual Assault and Violence Statistics in the United States

Women experience sexual assault and violence in great numbers. The trauma can last a lifetime.