🧘‍♀️ Monkey Mind vs Monk Mind: Finding Calm in the Chaos

We’ve all been there — your mind jumps from one thought to another, replaying old conversations, planning tomorrow’s to-do list, and worrying about things that haven’t even happened yet.

That, my friend, is what’s called the Monkey Mind.

In contrast, when you’re grounded, calm, and present — when you’re simply here — that’s your Monk Mind. Learning to recognise which one is leading the show can make all the difference in how peaceful your days feel.

🐒 What Is the Monkey Mind?

The Monkey Mind is a term from Buddhist philosophy describing our restless, easily distracted thoughts.

It’s the part of the mind that constantly chatters, swings between ideas, and refuses to sit still — much like a cheeky monkey jumping from branch to branch.

Example:

You’re trying to meditate, but your mind keeps reminding you to check your phone, wondering what’s for dinner, and replaying that awkward thing you said last week.

The Monkey Mind thrives on overthinking, distraction, and self-doubt.

🕊️ What Is the Monk Mind?

The Monk Mind is calm, present, and centred. It observes thoughts without getting tangled in them.

It helps you focus on what truly matters instead of reacting to every passing feeling or worry.

Example:

You’re walking to work and notice the crisp air, the sound of leaves, and your steady breath. You’re not racing ahead in your head — you’re simply enjoying the moment.

The Monk Mind thrives on clarity, awareness, and compassion.

🧩 Monkey Mind vs Monk Mind — At a Glance

🌿 How to Move from Monkey to Monk

✨ Pause before reacting. Take one slow breath — it really can change everything.

🪞 Notice your thoughts. Label them: “That’s my monkey mind again.”

👣 Bring yourself back to now. Use your senses — what can you see, hear, or feel?

💛 Be kind to yourself. Even the calmest monks have noisy days.

The goal isn’t to silence the Monkey Mind completely — it’s to befriend it, so it no longer runs the show.

By simply noticing the chatter, you begin to find moments of stillness — and that’s where your Monk Mind quietly waits. 🌸