Spinning: Not Just Human Fun

Ever wondered why spinning around until you're dizzy is so much fun? Smithsonian Magazine uncovers the whirlwind world of great apes who love a good spin, just like us! From gorillas to orangutans, these primates are twirling their way through life, possibly to alter their mental states. It's not just child's play; it's science in a spin!

The Whirling World of Great Apes

Have you ever wondered why spinning around until you're dizzy is so much fun? It turns out, humans aren't the only ones who enjoy this dizzy delight. Recent research has unveiled that great apes—our close relatives like gorillas, orangutans, chimpanzees, and bonobos—also share this penchant for pirouetting. This discovery isn't just a quirky fact; it opens up a fascinating window into understanding how and why experiencing altered states of consciousness might be a shared trait among many species, including us. It challenges us to think about the broader implications of play, pleasure, and even the pursuit of altered mental states across the animal kingdom. For you, this could mean exploring the connections between physical activities and mental states, or simply appreciating the shared joy of spinning with some of the planet's most majestic creatures.