The Call of the Jungle
Inspired by Edgar Rice Burroughs' iconic creation, Tarzan, Victor Manuel has transformed the fictional hero's connection to the wild into a tangible life philosophy known as the 'Tarzan Movement.' This
approach encourages individuals to tap into their inherent 'primate' instincts, fostering a deeper, more organic relationship with nature. Victor, a Cuban-born adventurer, travels globally, conducting workshops and retreats aimed at helping people rediscover this vital connection, which he believes has become obscured by modern life's complexities. He emphasizes that our natural instincts are often clouded, leading to a sense of disconnect from the natural world. His core mission is to guide others back to this fundamental connection, thereby helping them feel more at home within themselves and the environment around them. This journey is not merely about physical activity but a profound shift in perspective, urging a return to a more intuitive and grounded way of being.
Tree Climbing as Unity
At the heart of Victor Manuel's 'Tarzan Movement' lies tree climbing, which he views as a profound method for achieving harmony with nature. For him, a tree is an entire universe, a microcosm of life itself. He aims to share this experience, allowing others to feel the profound sense of peace and belonging he discovered in his youth, escaping the overwhelming pressures of societal norms. He recounts his own childhood experiences of seeking solace among trees, finding them to be welcoming companions. Initially, the branches seemed unyielding, much like the world he perceived below. However, with persistent effort and increased time spent amongst them, he discovered their inherent flexibility and grace, which in turn fostered a similar nimbleness within him. This reciprocal relationship, akin to a friendship, was nurtured by the calm presence of the sky above, acting as a silent, elder observer. This realization solidified his belief that this was his true calling, a path of deep connection and self-discovery.
From Cuba to Education
Victor Manuel's journey began in Cuba, where he was raised by doctor parents in humble circumstances. His early life took a significant turn when his family relocated to the UK, a move that highlighted stark cultural differences in social bonding. He felt a strong divergence from his parents' expectations for him to pursue a conventional professional path, such as medicine, experiencing his emotions with heightened intensity and a deep need for solitude. The allure of treetops became his sanctuary, initiating his lifelong affinity with trees during his teenage years. His passion for arboreal exploration was further fueled by camping, where he initially found branches to be somewhat rigid, mirroring the world he encountered. However, prolonged exposure revealed their supple nature and fluid movements, which inspired a similar suppleness in himself. This growing rapport with trees, coupled with the serene observation of the sky, fostered a sense of relaxation and purpose, marking the beginning of his unique spiritual path.
Holistic Roots and Tarzan
Victor's formative experiences led him to volunteer at Brockwood Park School in Winchester, a residential center dedicated to holistic education. The campus, rich with extensive trees and lush greenery, resonated deeply with Victor due to its core philosophy, which was established by the renowned philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti. Krishnamurti's emphasis on observing the mind and its intricate pathways in quiet contemplation profoundly influenced Victor. He dedicated four hours daily to work, reserving the remainder for his 'Tarzan time,' which involved immersing himself in the school's arboreal environment. Students were drawn to his activities, prompting Victor to begin guiding them. It was during this period that he coined the term 'Tarzan Movement,' observing that as one moves around trees, a primal, ape-like essence emerges. This practice fosters a sense of identity dissolution, where the boundaries between the self and the tree blur, leading to a state of unified existence, often involving resting on branches and feeling an intrinsic connection to the natural world.
Global Explorations and Philosophy
Following his time at Brockwood Park, Victor journeyed to India, spending time at The Valley School in Bengaluru, another institution founded by Jiddu Krishnamurti. While Krishnamurti's teachings deeply impacted him, Victor's quest for understanding the human mind's complexity continued, as he felt it transcended any single philosophical framework. His explorations extended to Auroville and later to Bali, where he delved into bamboo construction. He also engaged in agriculture and conservation projects across Southeast Asia. The call of trees drew him to Barcelona, where he initially lived in hammocks strung between trees during the COVID-19 pandemic. His 'tree therapy' provided solace to morning walkers during lockdown, highlighting a collective yearning for nature, connection, and movement. A documentary made by a visual media student brought global attention, leading to invitations from various sectors, including corporations. However, Victor remains committed to his fluid lifestyle, preferring to network through genuine relationships and accepting invitations based on the presence of natural environments suitable for retreats, allowing his journey to flow organically like a river.
Lessons from the Amazon
Victor's adventures have taken him to extraordinary places, including the Amazon rainforest, facilitated by an interaction with Leo Primal, a popular climber and content creator interested in 'child energy.' In Ecuador, members of the Cofan tribe shared profound insights, guiding him to immense trees and recounting ancient folk tales, including one about a man-eating witch inhabiting a colossal tree. Victor humorously recounts climbing this tree without encountering the mythical inhabitant. He also learned invaluable survival skills from a spear-wielding tribe, including how to move with incredible speed and agility through challenging jungle terrains, describing it as an experience that transcended ordinary reality. These encounters in the Amazon offered him a unique perspective on human connection with the natural world and the diverse wisdom held within indigenous cultures and their relationship with the environment. His travels continue to be driven by a desire to learn and share these profound connections.
Kerala and Future Journeys
During his recent visit to Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, Victor was enthusiastic about climbing trees near the Museum area but was prevented by the forest department, prompting him to head to Ponmudi. His future plans involve returning to Barcelona and then conducting wilderness workshops, with the overarching goal of helping people resonate with nature. He reiterates the importance of understanding our primal, animalistic selves first. For those new to his philosophy, Victor assures them that fear dissipates with prolonged time spent amongst trees, and climbing techniques emerge naturally. He envisions a future where the 'animal' within us—our soft, flexible, and naturally amiable aspects—is allowed to emerge, leading to a greater appreciation for the beauty of life on Earth. This spiritual connection to the natural world remains the core of his life's work and personal philosophy.
