Monkey Business: Swinging Through Life Stress-Free
The Instagram Video That Sparked a Thought
My nephew recently posted a video on Instagram featuring a small monkey swinging joyfully from one branch to another. The monkey seemed to be having the time of its life, completely immersed in the moment. Inspired by its carefree energy, I commented: "How wonderful it would be if we could do that! No worries, no tensions, just swinging from branch to branch and tree to tree. Maybe even scream like Tarzan while we’re at it!"
A Nephew's Insight
His response came swiftly, and it was as entertaining as it was thought-provoking. He said, "If you wake up early, you’ll see plenty of monkeys doing just that. They all swing their way in one direction after sunrise, and by sunset, they swing back. No idea what 'monkey business' they’re up to in between."
What Do Monkeys Really Do?
That last phrase – "monkey business"– got me thinking. While we humans might imagine that their lives are full of chaotic antics, it’s probably far simpler. They likely spend their day playing, running, fighting, and mating – all instinct-driven activities. But you know what they absolutely don’t do? They don’t sit around brooding, ruminating, or feeling anxious about the future. They don’t agonize over existential questions like, "What’s the purpose of my swinging today?" or "Am I the best monkey I can be?"
Lessons From the Monkey Mindset
These emotions – anxiety, fear, depression – are uniquely human inventions, and even more specifically, adult ones. Children are more like monkeys, finding joy in the simplest things. Give a child a puddle, and you’ll see sheer delight. Hand them a cardboard box, and suddenly it’s a spaceship. Somewhere along the way, as we grow older, we trade this spontaneity and joy for a never-ending mental to-do list:
Pay the bills.
Meet deadlines.
Stress about the future.
Regret the past.
Why We Should Take Inspiration from Monkeys
Monkeys don’t carry the weight of these unproductive emotions, and that’s a lesson worth learning. Sure, their lives aren’t completely carefree. They need to find food, watch out for predators, and navigate the complex dynamics of their social groups. But they don’t seem to let these challenges rob them of their moments of joy. When they swing from branch to branch, they’re fully present, embracing the thrill of the moment.
We, on the other hand, have mastered the art of overthinking. A simple task like walking down the street can spiral into a mental symphony of worries: "Did I lock the door? What’s that email from my boss about? Am I saving enough for retirement?" Meanwhile, the monkeys are just... swinging.
How to Rediscover Your Inner Monkey
To be clear, I’m not suggesting we abandon all responsibilities and start living in trees. (Though the idea of screaming like Tarzan does sound oddly therapeutic.) But there’s something to be said for rediscovering that childlike, monkey-like capacity to live in the moment. Here are a few ways to channel your inner primate:
1. Play More
Monkeys play instinctively, and so do children. Adults? Not so much. Rediscover the joy of play, whether it’s through sports, games, or creative hobbies. Remember, play isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for mental well-being.
2. Stop Overthinking
Easier said than done, I know. But take a page out of the monkey’s book: deal with challenges as they come, and don’t waste time inventing problems that may never happen.
3. Move Your Body
Monkeys are constantly in motion, and it’s a big part of why they look so happy. Physical activity releases endorphins, the body’s natural feel-good chemicals. You don’t have to swing from trees (unless that’s your thing), but find a way to move that makes you smile.
4. Be Present
Monkeys aren’t replaying yesterday’s swing in their heads or worrying about tomorrow’s branch. They’re right there, in the moment. Practice mindfulness by paying attention to the here and now, whether it’s through meditation, deep breathing, or simply savoring your morning coffee.
5. Embrace the Chaos
Monkeys live in a world of unpredictability, yet they thrive. Life is messy and unpredictable for us too, but that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy it. Learn to laugh at the absurdities and roll with the punches.
Welcome to the Monkey Club
I’ve made it my mission to channel my inner monkey whenever I can. Some days, it means taking a playful approach to life. Other days, it means letting go of worries that don’t serve me. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress.
If you’re tired of carrying the mental baggage of adulthood, I invite you to join the Monkey Club. Let’s swing through life with a little more joy, a little less worry, and maybe even a Tarzan yell or two. After all, life is too short to spend it stuck on the ground when there are so many branches to explore.
