All-weather camping hammocks are essential for all you hardcore campers. It doesn’t matter if you’re a pro hammock camper or looking to venture into the leisure of above ground camping for the first time because either way you want to stay warm and dry in all conditions. The hammock itself will never be enough, especially in the winter months, but there are many lightweight accessory options to keep you warm and dry in the harsh winter months.
An all weather hammock by itself will be made of lightweight all-weather nylon that can take abuse from the element, but for comfort and backpacking comfort, there are a few things to keep in mind:
• Lightweight
It’s essential to find a hammock that is easy to pack up and carry with you because the less you have to lug around on your back the better. Luckily, all-weather hammocks by themselves are relatively lightweight. The issue comes with the winter months. When it gets colder you will need more things to keep yourself sheltered from the elements.
There are ways to stay warm that will not weight you down too much. Top and bottom insulation pads along with a warm quilt or sleeping bag will certainly keep you warm on cold winter nights. These accessories are lightweight and easy to roll up and store in a hiking pack.
• Reliability
No matter what the weather is, having s sturdy, reliable setup is key to staying lofted and away from harm. Investing in durable tree ties will give you piece of mind and a safe night sleep every time. High-quality tree ties also allow for easier set-up and variety in hang length. Tree ties also give you more options for the distance between trees.
The all-weather material you choose for your hammock needs to be durable as well. You want to make sure it is appropriate for your height and weight so you don’t face any issues along the way.
• Accessories
Hammock accessories are a great way to add some convenience to your hammock. Mesh bags can be attached to keep items handy throughout the night. A bag to tie your hammock in is another item that will help you keep your tree ties and other items all together. The quicker and neater you can clean up camp the better. Additionally, pads are a useful way to add comfort and warmth to your hammock. Finally – and most importantly – you’ll want to get a hold of a bug net to keep the mosquitos and other creepy-crawlers out of your hammock.
• Prepare for the Weather
You can never be too prepared for the weather, especially if you’re a rugged all year round camper. Packing for the weather and making sure you and your hammock are equipped for the potential weather conditions is essential to a comfortable, fun camping experience. Make sure to pack for the elements and bring warm blankets and insulation for your hammock – if weather permits. During the summer and spring months you will be able to pack a lot lighter and your all weather hammock will still be geared up and ready for the job.
All-weather hammocks are a great way to save space and conserve energy on long hiking and camping trips. With the added space you can pack more equipment for hunting, fishing. You will be able to go longer distances with less weight – plus, sleeping in a hammock is extremely comfortable. Get out there and grab yourself and all-weather hammock to see what it’s like for yourself. I can guarantee it will change your camping experience for the better. Happy camping!
In good times and hard times rest and relaxation are essential to human survival! We're your online resource for quality hammocks. Let us help you relax... visit us at www.seasidehammocks.com
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
4 Simple Ways to Maintain a Hammock
Hammocks need some tender love and care to keep them in top working condition. It doesn’t take much to keep your hammock working flawlessly, but it also only takes a small amount of negligence to end up with a worn out, ripped up, hammock. Below are some tips to maintain the quality of your hammock so you can keep on swinging for years to come.
• Cleaning
No matter how well you take care of your hammock, a good cleaning is never a bad idea. For outside, cotton hammocks, it's recommended that you give them a good wash once or twice a season. A thorough cleaning will keep dirt build-up under control and your hammocks will smell fresh. Nylon hammocks don't require such frequent washings, but it certainly will not hurt either. The better care you take of your hammock, the longer it will last.
There are two ways to clean both nylon and cotton hammocks. The first is a good old-fashioned hand washing – some elbow grease will be needed here.
1. First, soak the hammock in warm water with a little bit of shampoo or a mild detergent and a handful of salt thrown in.
2. Then, start scrubbing. Make sure to give special attention to areas with tree sap, food stains, or any type of dirt buildup.
3. Finally, hang the hammock up to dry in a place where it won’t accrue more dirt while it’s drying.
The second method of washing requires no elbow grease and little effort on your part.
1. Loosely tie up the ends of your hammock.
2. Throw it into a pillowcase and tie up the open end.
3. Toss it in the washer on a cold delicate cycle with a gentle detergent 4. Hang up and air-dry your hammock all the way before use again.
• Storage
Proper hammock storage is another essential way to prolonging the life of your hammock. There are some things to keep in mind before storing your hammock for the harsher months to ensure it’s in top shape for many more months of hanging. You will want to follow the instructions above to clean your hammock and dry it completely. This will prevent mold, mildew, or any type of rot from happening to your hammock when it is out of site. Locate a dry area where you can take both ends of the hammock and hang them up together on the same hook. Hammocks don’t take up much room and they are fairly easy to store as long as they remain dry. Now all you have to do is leave it there until you’re ready to use it again!
• Repair
Some woven hammocks can get pulls in them because they snag on something. It is important to repair theses pulls before they do some serious damage to your hammock. Pulls are pretty easy to fix, but take a little bit of patience. What you want to do is essentially follow the string that has the pull in it and pull it in the opposite directions getting farther and farther away from the pull. This will even out the material and the pull will settle. If there is a break in the material you will want to tie the two ends together and follow the steps above until it settles.
• Exposure
Are you conscious of how much your hammock is exposed to the elements? If not, this is something you may want to start taking in consideration – especially for cotton hammocks. Sun exposure can fade colors and leave your hammock looking ratty. Also, if a hammock is left out in the rain and not properly cleaned and dried, it can start to grow mildew and lose the appeal it once had. As long as you keep your hammock out of the sun for extended periods of time and you make sure to keep it safe from the elements, your hammock with look beautiful for years.
You want to get the best out of your hammock and all it takes is a little thought and effort to ensure it stays looking brand new. Regular cleanings, proper storage, timely repairs, and shelter from extended time in the elements will yield great results. Your hammock will hold up for many seasons to come.
• Cleaning
No matter how well you take care of your hammock, a good cleaning is never a bad idea. For outside, cotton hammocks, it's recommended that you give them a good wash once or twice a season. A thorough cleaning will keep dirt build-up under control and your hammocks will smell fresh. Nylon hammocks don't require such frequent washings, but it certainly will not hurt either. The better care you take of your hammock, the longer it will last.
There are two ways to clean both nylon and cotton hammocks. The first is a good old-fashioned hand washing – some elbow grease will be needed here.
1. First, soak the hammock in warm water with a little bit of shampoo or a mild detergent and a handful of salt thrown in.
2. Then, start scrubbing. Make sure to give special attention to areas with tree sap, food stains, or any type of dirt buildup.
3. Finally, hang the hammock up to dry in a place where it won’t accrue more dirt while it’s drying.
The second method of washing requires no elbow grease and little effort on your part.
1. Loosely tie up the ends of your hammock.
2. Throw it into a pillowcase and tie up the open end.
3. Toss it in the washer on a cold delicate cycle with a gentle detergent 4. Hang up and air-dry your hammock all the way before use again.
• Storage
Proper hammock storage is another essential way to prolonging the life of your hammock. There are some things to keep in mind before storing your hammock for the harsher months to ensure it’s in top shape for many more months of hanging. You will want to follow the instructions above to clean your hammock and dry it completely. This will prevent mold, mildew, or any type of rot from happening to your hammock when it is out of site. Locate a dry area where you can take both ends of the hammock and hang them up together on the same hook. Hammocks don’t take up much room and they are fairly easy to store as long as they remain dry. Now all you have to do is leave it there until you’re ready to use it again!
• Repair
Some woven hammocks can get pulls in them because they snag on something. It is important to repair theses pulls before they do some serious damage to your hammock. Pulls are pretty easy to fix, but take a little bit of patience. What you want to do is essentially follow the string that has the pull in it and pull it in the opposite directions getting farther and farther away from the pull. This will even out the material and the pull will settle. If there is a break in the material you will want to tie the two ends together and follow the steps above until it settles.
• Exposure
Are you conscious of how much your hammock is exposed to the elements? If not, this is something you may want to start taking in consideration – especially for cotton hammocks. Sun exposure can fade colors and leave your hammock looking ratty. Also, if a hammock is left out in the rain and not properly cleaned and dried, it can start to grow mildew and lose the appeal it once had. As long as you keep your hammock out of the sun for extended periods of time and you make sure to keep it safe from the elements, your hammock with look beautiful for years.
You want to get the best out of your hammock and all it takes is a little thought and effort to ensure it stays looking brand new. Regular cleanings, proper storage, timely repairs, and shelter from extended time in the elements will yield great results. Your hammock will hold up for many seasons to come.
Thursday, May 29, 2014
Reaping the Benefits of the Hammock
Have you ever considered an alternative to your mattress? Wouldn’t it be wonderful to have a more comfortable option? What if that option also offered health benefits in addition to the comfort? If any of this sounds appealing then you need to consider making the switch to a hammock. This may initially sound like a crazy idea, but the research and experience has shown that the benefits are real. Get ready to give up the traditional route of a mattress for a much better alternative…the hammock. So what are the health benefits of switching?
1. Increased level of comfort – If you have ever suffered from back pain or neck pain, then you know how a mattress and pillow contribute to those aches and pains. The benefit of the hammock is unmatched when it comes to comfort. This applies to good quality hammocks that are used correctly. You will not believe the difference it makes on your back and neck, and you will quickly see positive results. Instead of a too hard or too soft mattress you can enjoy the safe feeling of being wrapped up in a hammock.
2. The right angle – Hammocks mimic the perfect angle for each and every one of us. It elevates our head to the perfect angle. In addition, the hammock leaves the body at the perfect angles offering the best positions for anyone with physical problems. Laying down straight is not the perfect position for anyone, especially if you are predisposed to joint pain or poor circulation. A hammock surprisingly offers a great deal of support, and with less movement throughout the night you are sure to sleep better.
3. Fall asleep faster and deeper – Say goodbye to tossing and turning in bed. A hammock offers a safe and secure feeling, causing you to fall asleep faster. Because there is no distraction of tossing and turning, you can count on a full night of sleep. The hammock will cocoon you and rock you to sleep, making it a wonderful way to fall asleep and stay asleep. Cure your insomnia with a hammock.
4. In a state of relaxation – There is nothing more relaxing than the feeling of being weightless, swinging lazily, and being peaceful. Obviously the more relaxed you are the greater the health benefits to you. When you are on vacation you notice an immediate difference in the level of tension in your body, blood pressure problems, and overall stress and tension. Being able to relax so much during sleep, and increasing the amount of time in peaceful sleep will benefit you in the same manner.
Once you decide to purchase a hammock to reap all of the health benefits you will find yourself looking at quite a selection to choose from. Where do you begin? Here are some of the most popular styles:
1. Mayan Hammock – The Mayan Hammock is the most popular and may just be the most comfortable. The weave adjusts to the contours of your body giving you the most comfortable feel. You will have a full nights’ sleep with a Mayan Hammock. In addition, the strength and durability give you another incentive to buy.
2. Brazilian Hammock – A very stylish option, the Brazilian Hammock is an excellent option for families. Although it comes in a single as well, the size options make this an excellent choice for those who desire something more flexible. Even coming in a queen size it is a great way to spread out, relax, or have the whole family enjoy it.
3. All Weather Hammocks – if you are looking more for a hammock to enjoy outdoors, then this is the direction you will want to go in. Created to endure the elements, the All Weather Hammocks will last longer when exposed to the outdoors. This is an excellent relaxation tool, and you can lay out and enjoy the sounds of nature while you still benefit from the hammock.
These are just three examples of top selling hammocks. Work with a hammock expert in order to find the best fit for your needs. The benefits of the hammock are endless. It changes your state of relaxation, mindset, and will improve your sleep exponentially.
1. Increased level of comfort – If you have ever suffered from back pain or neck pain, then you know how a mattress and pillow contribute to those aches and pains. The benefit of the hammock is unmatched when it comes to comfort. This applies to good quality hammocks that are used correctly. You will not believe the difference it makes on your back and neck, and you will quickly see positive results. Instead of a too hard or too soft mattress you can enjoy the safe feeling of being wrapped up in a hammock.
2. The right angle – Hammocks mimic the perfect angle for each and every one of us. It elevates our head to the perfect angle. In addition, the hammock leaves the body at the perfect angles offering the best positions for anyone with physical problems. Laying down straight is not the perfect position for anyone, especially if you are predisposed to joint pain or poor circulation. A hammock surprisingly offers a great deal of support, and with less movement throughout the night you are sure to sleep better.
3. Fall asleep faster and deeper – Say goodbye to tossing and turning in bed. A hammock offers a safe and secure feeling, causing you to fall asleep faster. Because there is no distraction of tossing and turning, you can count on a full night of sleep. The hammock will cocoon you and rock you to sleep, making it a wonderful way to fall asleep and stay asleep. Cure your insomnia with a hammock.
4. In a state of relaxation – There is nothing more relaxing than the feeling of being weightless, swinging lazily, and being peaceful. Obviously the more relaxed you are the greater the health benefits to you. When you are on vacation you notice an immediate difference in the level of tension in your body, blood pressure problems, and overall stress and tension. Being able to relax so much during sleep, and increasing the amount of time in peaceful sleep will benefit you in the same manner.
Once you decide to purchase a hammock to reap all of the health benefits you will find yourself looking at quite a selection to choose from. Where do you begin? Here are some of the most popular styles:
1. Mayan Hammock – The Mayan Hammock is the most popular and may just be the most comfortable. The weave adjusts to the contours of your body giving you the most comfortable feel. You will have a full nights’ sleep with a Mayan Hammock. In addition, the strength and durability give you another incentive to buy.
2. Brazilian Hammock – A very stylish option, the Brazilian Hammock is an excellent option for families. Although it comes in a single as well, the size options make this an excellent choice for those who desire something more flexible. Even coming in a queen size it is a great way to spread out, relax, or have the whole family enjoy it.
3. All Weather Hammocks – if you are looking more for a hammock to enjoy outdoors, then this is the direction you will want to go in. Created to endure the elements, the All Weather Hammocks will last longer when exposed to the outdoors. This is an excellent relaxation tool, and you can lay out and enjoy the sounds of nature while you still benefit from the hammock.
These are just three examples of top selling hammocks. Work with a hammock expert in order to find the best fit for your needs. The benefits of the hammock are endless. It changes your state of relaxation, mindset, and will improve your sleep exponentially.
Thursday, May 22, 2014
Camping in Style
Camping is one of the most popular vacation ideas, and research shows that it is only increasing in popularity. The beauty of camping is that you can tailor it to your preferences and make it as rugged or as relaxed as you would like. With the beauty and relaxation found in the outdoors it is easy to understand why millions of Americans gravitate towards nature every year. Passing on the chaos of hotels and motels, vacationers are preferring outdoor accommodations and recreation to indoor luxury. Camping is an escape from the hustle and bustle of day-to-day living, and offers peace and quiet for as long as you are on your trip.
The interest in camping is growing, as is the age range of people who camp at least once per year. For many though, the idea of camping has changed dramatically. For most it is no longer the rugged weekend in the woods with few amenities. With changes in campers, hammocks, tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment it is a whole new world in the wilderness. Here are ways to make your next camping trip more exciting.
1. Find the perfect location – Some locations are better than others for camping. Depending on your likes and dislikes, children, activity preference, and layout you will have a more enjoyable experience at some locations than others. Do your homework and look for new locations and opportunities. If you enjoy swimming then make sure that there is a lake in close proximity. If you like hiking, look for mountains that offer hiking trails. If you have children then organized activities might be best for the family. Finding something for everyone will not be all that difficult. There are a lot of options out there, you just need to do the digging to find something new.
2. Take good company – Vacation is a great time to get away from everyone and everything. Some people prefer to get away and not look back. Others find that they have a much more enjoyable time if they have company with like interests. Some people will take friends along for the kids to have someone to play with, making it more enjoyable for everyone. Good company gives you additional options for activities, great conversation, and sharing of the camping responsibilities.
3. Find relaxing activities to reduce boredom – Everyone has their own ideas of what is fun, relaxing, or exciting. Every campsite offers a lot of similarity, but there are also important differences. If you enjoy certain activities make sure that they are offered in close proximity so that you can participate. If you want to go out and spend a weekend reading quietly then make sure that you take plenty of good reading material. If swimming is your number one way to relax make sure that there is a lake close to your campsite that is easy to access. For kids, swimming, miniature golf, and hiking are great family activities that will keep them entertained for hours.
4. Take care of the sleeping situation – One of the reasons that people would choose against camping is the discomfort in the sleeping arrangements. The cold hard ground becomes less and less appealing and comfortable the older we get, so anything that makes it more comfortable is sure to increase the frequency and desirability of camping. One sure fire way to enjoy your sleeping arrangements is to set up a hammock. The comfort and relaxation factors will have you running out to camp much more regularly. Picture yourself in the shade of the trees, swinging away, more relaxed than ever. A breathable parachute nylon hammock is the ultimate in comfort, and you can say goodbye to the cold hard ground. Ideal for handling the elements, the parachute nylon hammock is the perfect choice for the avid camper. You will want something that lasts through all weather, and you will enjoy it for years. Purchase a stand so that you can use it anytime, anyplace. You will be the envy of every camper.
The key to any vacation is relaxation. Whether you choose a beach vacation or camping, as long as you are able to kick back, relax, and forget about your worries, then it was a successful vacation. Add the extra levels of comfort and you can enjoy any setting. Those who have never been camping before might even consider it with the addition of the extras, like a luxurious hammock.
The interest in camping is growing, as is the age range of people who camp at least once per year. For many though, the idea of camping has changed dramatically. For most it is no longer the rugged weekend in the woods with few amenities. With changes in campers, hammocks, tents, sleeping bags, and cooking equipment it is a whole new world in the wilderness. Here are ways to make your next camping trip more exciting.
1. Find the perfect location – Some locations are better than others for camping. Depending on your likes and dislikes, children, activity preference, and layout you will have a more enjoyable experience at some locations than others. Do your homework and look for new locations and opportunities. If you enjoy swimming then make sure that there is a lake in close proximity. If you like hiking, look for mountains that offer hiking trails. If you have children then organized activities might be best for the family. Finding something for everyone will not be all that difficult. There are a lot of options out there, you just need to do the digging to find something new.
2. Take good company – Vacation is a great time to get away from everyone and everything. Some people prefer to get away and not look back. Others find that they have a much more enjoyable time if they have company with like interests. Some people will take friends along for the kids to have someone to play with, making it more enjoyable for everyone. Good company gives you additional options for activities, great conversation, and sharing of the camping responsibilities.
3. Find relaxing activities to reduce boredom – Everyone has their own ideas of what is fun, relaxing, or exciting. Every campsite offers a lot of similarity, but there are also important differences. If you enjoy certain activities make sure that they are offered in close proximity so that you can participate. If you want to go out and spend a weekend reading quietly then make sure that you take plenty of good reading material. If swimming is your number one way to relax make sure that there is a lake close to your campsite that is easy to access. For kids, swimming, miniature golf, and hiking are great family activities that will keep them entertained for hours.
4. Take care of the sleeping situation – One of the reasons that people would choose against camping is the discomfort in the sleeping arrangements. The cold hard ground becomes less and less appealing and comfortable the older we get, so anything that makes it more comfortable is sure to increase the frequency and desirability of camping. One sure fire way to enjoy your sleeping arrangements is to set up a hammock. The comfort and relaxation factors will have you running out to camp much more regularly. Picture yourself in the shade of the trees, swinging away, more relaxed than ever. A breathable parachute nylon hammock is the ultimate in comfort, and you can say goodbye to the cold hard ground. Ideal for handling the elements, the parachute nylon hammock is the perfect choice for the avid camper. You will want something that lasts through all weather, and you will enjoy it for years. Purchase a stand so that you can use it anytime, anyplace. You will be the envy of every camper.
The key to any vacation is relaxation. Whether you choose a beach vacation or camping, as long as you are able to kick back, relax, and forget about your worries, then it was a successful vacation. Add the extra levels of comfort and you can enjoy any setting. Those who have never been camping before might even consider it with the addition of the extras, like a luxurious hammock.
Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Sleep in a Hammock, Your Body and Mind Will Thank You
Sleeping in a hammock may seem like an outlandish idea, but the health benefits are phenomenal. Hammocks facilitate a much deeper sleep; they clear up clutter in the bedroom; they provide gentle rocking that changes brain waves; and sleeping in a hammock puts you into the perfect position for the best rest possible. With all these paybacks, I think it is time we kick our old beds to the curb and adopt a hammock.
Free Fall Into Sleep
Hammocks offer a suspended position that not only hugs your body, but also relieves stress. The relief helps to lower blood pressure and can put even the most stressed out individual into complete bliss. When our bodies and minds are at ease, sleep can be achieved in a matter of minutes.
So Much Room For Activities
Replacing your bed with a hammock is the easiest way to unclutter your bedroom. Hammocks take up very little space, and not to mention, hammocks come in various different styles to suit your tastes best. You will not only get a better sleep, but you will certainly spark up an intriguing conversation the next time you give a tour of your house.
Rock-A-Bye Baby
The gentle rocking sensation a hammock provides is also conducive for an excellent night’s sleep. Studies show that a slow gentle rocking not only helps people sleep faster and deeper, but it also changes brain waves. Rocking increases N2 sleep, which is a form of non-rapid eye movement sleep. Non-REM sleep takes up about half the brain activity found in a good night’s sleep. If this isn’t enough evidence for you to toss out that old spring mattress, keep reading.
The Perfect Sleeping Position
Studies show, for humans to get the best sleep possible, we need to lie on our backs with our heads slightly elevated at 10-30 percent. This position generates the ideal conditions for uninhibited breathing and better circulation to the brain. Hammocks, by design, provide a comfortable and practical way of sleeping on your back. They also slightly elevate the head in the precise position. Hammocks also provide a zero pressure point sleep, which provides the most comfortable sleep imaginable. Unlike conventional beds, hammocks cradle your body and release tension instead of putting weight exclusively on a few areas of the body.
Not All Hammocks Are For Sleeping
Keep in mind, not all hammocks are designed for a flawless night’s sleep. You don’t want to wake up with rope burn, or end up flipping out of your new bed in the middle of the night. There are specific hammocks designed for sleep that provide comfort and stability. Sleep hammocks provide non-flipping security, comfort, and soft natural material. Some even come with mosquito nets, if you decide to sleep under the stars.
Choosing the right hammock for sleeping can seem like a daunting task, but in reality, if you keep a few things in mind, finding the perfect hammock will be a breeze. The first thing to keep in mind is the material making up your hammock. You don’t want to wake up with rope burns, so sticking with soft cotton hammocks will lead to a cozier sleep. In general, Nicaraguan, Mayan, and Brazilian hammocks are best to sleep in. These styles of hammock are based on the designs used by Nicaraguans, Mayans, and Brazilians for centuries.
Now that you’re equipped with the proper knowledge for sleeping in a hammock, it’s time to snuggle on in for the best slumber you’ve ever had. If you are a little leery about banishing your traditional bed, start by taking a nap in a hammock. Then, take the plunge and spend the night. It shouldn’t be long before you spend more time in the hammock than you do in your outdated, uncomfortable bed. Sweet dreams and happy swinging.
Free Fall Into Sleep
Hammocks offer a suspended position that not only hugs your body, but also relieves stress. The relief helps to lower blood pressure and can put even the most stressed out individual into complete bliss. When our bodies and minds are at ease, sleep can be achieved in a matter of minutes.
So Much Room For Activities
Replacing your bed with a hammock is the easiest way to unclutter your bedroom. Hammocks take up very little space, and not to mention, hammocks come in various different styles to suit your tastes best. You will not only get a better sleep, but you will certainly spark up an intriguing conversation the next time you give a tour of your house.
Rock-A-Bye Baby
The gentle rocking sensation a hammock provides is also conducive for an excellent night’s sleep. Studies show that a slow gentle rocking not only helps people sleep faster and deeper, but it also changes brain waves. Rocking increases N2 sleep, which is a form of non-rapid eye movement sleep. Non-REM sleep takes up about half the brain activity found in a good night’s sleep. If this isn’t enough evidence for you to toss out that old spring mattress, keep reading.
The Perfect Sleeping Position
Studies show, for humans to get the best sleep possible, we need to lie on our backs with our heads slightly elevated at 10-30 percent. This position generates the ideal conditions for uninhibited breathing and better circulation to the brain. Hammocks, by design, provide a comfortable and practical way of sleeping on your back. They also slightly elevate the head in the precise position. Hammocks also provide a zero pressure point sleep, which provides the most comfortable sleep imaginable. Unlike conventional beds, hammocks cradle your body and release tension instead of putting weight exclusively on a few areas of the body.
Not All Hammocks Are For Sleeping
Keep in mind, not all hammocks are designed for a flawless night’s sleep. You don’t want to wake up with rope burn, or end up flipping out of your new bed in the middle of the night. There are specific hammocks designed for sleep that provide comfort and stability. Sleep hammocks provide non-flipping security, comfort, and soft natural material. Some even come with mosquito nets, if you decide to sleep under the stars.
Choosing the right hammock for sleeping can seem like a daunting task, but in reality, if you keep a few things in mind, finding the perfect hammock will be a breeze. The first thing to keep in mind is the material making up your hammock. You don’t want to wake up with rope burns, so sticking with soft cotton hammocks will lead to a cozier sleep. In general, Nicaraguan, Mayan, and Brazilian hammocks are best to sleep in. These styles of hammock are based on the designs used by Nicaraguans, Mayans, and Brazilians for centuries.
Now that you’re equipped with the proper knowledge for sleeping in a hammock, it’s time to snuggle on in for the best slumber you’ve ever had. If you are a little leery about banishing your traditional bed, start by taking a nap in a hammock. Then, take the plunge and spend the night. It shouldn’t be long before you spend more time in the hammock than you do in your outdated, uncomfortable bed. Sweet dreams and happy swinging.
Thursday, May 15, 2014
Relaxation: A Guide to Stress Relief
A recent study by The American Institute of Stress, shows the annual cost to employers in stress related health care and missed work to be an astounding $300 billion. Based on this statistic, it’s easy to see stress is not something to be taken lightly. Stress in the workplace leads to lower productivity rates and other severe, long-term consequences, if it is not properly addressed. In our society, “workaholics” are revered; and the harder they work, the more successful they will be. This is all well and good, but taking some time for relaxation has many benefits to productivity that will help even the most meticulous workaholic.
5 Everyday Stress Relievers
Luckily, there are some simple tricks to de-stressing that will seem more like fun rather than a mental health treatment. De-stressing is important to overall mental health, as well as physical health, because it allows you to think more clearly, be more productive, and puts you in a better mood. Here are the 5 things you can do everyday to melt the stress away:
• Take a Walk
Walking, even for a few minutes, will give you time to unwind after a long day at the office. This gives you the opportunity to clear your head, get those endorphins flowing, and take in some sunshine. You can do this alone, or with the company of others, but either way, it’s important to get out and walk!
• Breathe
Practicing deep, controlled breathing is essential to de-stressing. Those deep breaths circulate oxygen through the bloodstream, directly to your muscles. The new oxygen coursing through your body will help clear your mind and put your body at ease.
• Rock Out
Turn on the jams and let loose. Nothing feels better than hearing your favorite tune and dancing in front of the mirror. You make look silly, but you’ll feel better, that’s for sure.
• Laugh
Laughing immediately puts you in a better mood and is quite contagious. Once you start laughing, you won’t be able to stop. So, put on your favorite sitcom, watch a funny movie, or read a good joke. It doesn’t matter how you get yourself to laugh, as long as you do.
• Enjoy the Moment
Take a minute and be 100% in the moment. Clear your mind; don’t think about what you’re going to make for dinner, or what you need to do tonight. Just take the time to look at your surroundings and take in that exact moment. This gives you a newfound perspective and will have you feeling better in no time.
These five things you can do everyday with minimal effort. Take as much, or as little, time as you’d like, but be sure to de-stress, unwind, and you’ll be seeing the benefits in no time.
A Hammock Is Your Best Friend
Hammocks have excellent health benefits, both physically and mentally. Lying in a hammock cradles your body and takes much of the physical stress off of your muscles and bones. You can also dedicate this time to nap, daydream, or read a book, which all helps relieve stress as well.
Swaying in a hammock provides a calming sensation that will dissolve any level of stress in minutes. Plus, hammocks are normally set up outside in direct sunlight. Soaking up the natural vitamin D will improve your mood, as well. The act of lying in a hammock aligns your back and takes pressure off of your spine.
Most hammocks are big enough for two, so you can share the space with a loved one. This personal connection is also beneficial to your overall mental health. Being close to another person provides a sense of belonging and puts your mind at ease.
Overall, hammocks provide a multitude of health benefits and are extremely comfortable, as well! Hammocks are versatile, so they can be hung inside or outside to provide you with the most relaxing experience possible.
Fret No More
With these new tips now in your mental health toolbox, you’re ready to take on any stressful situation. The five stress relievers mentioned above can be applied at work, at home, or in almost any environment. As long as you take some time to focus on yourself, stress will become surprisingly manageable. Now get out there, enjoy some sunshine, lie in a hammock, read a good book, and don’t forget, stress doesn’t control you; you control it.
5 Everyday Stress Relievers
Luckily, there are some simple tricks to de-stressing that will seem more like fun rather than a mental health treatment. De-stressing is important to overall mental health, as well as physical health, because it allows you to think more clearly, be more productive, and puts you in a better mood. Here are the 5 things you can do everyday to melt the stress away:
• Take a Walk
Walking, even for a few minutes, will give you time to unwind after a long day at the office. This gives you the opportunity to clear your head, get those endorphins flowing, and take in some sunshine. You can do this alone, or with the company of others, but either way, it’s important to get out and walk!
• Breathe
Practicing deep, controlled breathing is essential to de-stressing. Those deep breaths circulate oxygen through the bloodstream, directly to your muscles. The new oxygen coursing through your body will help clear your mind and put your body at ease.
• Rock Out
Turn on the jams and let loose. Nothing feels better than hearing your favorite tune and dancing in front of the mirror. You make look silly, but you’ll feel better, that’s for sure.
• Laugh
Laughing immediately puts you in a better mood and is quite contagious. Once you start laughing, you won’t be able to stop. So, put on your favorite sitcom, watch a funny movie, or read a good joke. It doesn’t matter how you get yourself to laugh, as long as you do.
• Enjoy the Moment
Take a minute and be 100% in the moment. Clear your mind; don’t think about what you’re going to make for dinner, or what you need to do tonight. Just take the time to look at your surroundings and take in that exact moment. This gives you a newfound perspective and will have you feeling better in no time.
These five things you can do everyday with minimal effort. Take as much, or as little, time as you’d like, but be sure to de-stress, unwind, and you’ll be seeing the benefits in no time.
A Hammock Is Your Best Friend
Hammocks have excellent health benefits, both physically and mentally. Lying in a hammock cradles your body and takes much of the physical stress off of your muscles and bones. You can also dedicate this time to nap, daydream, or read a book, which all helps relieve stress as well.
Swaying in a hammock provides a calming sensation that will dissolve any level of stress in minutes. Plus, hammocks are normally set up outside in direct sunlight. Soaking up the natural vitamin D will improve your mood, as well. The act of lying in a hammock aligns your back and takes pressure off of your spine.
Most hammocks are big enough for two, so you can share the space with a loved one. This personal connection is also beneficial to your overall mental health. Being close to another person provides a sense of belonging and puts your mind at ease.
Overall, hammocks provide a multitude of health benefits and are extremely comfortable, as well! Hammocks are versatile, so they can be hung inside or outside to provide you with the most relaxing experience possible.
Fret No More
With these new tips now in your mental health toolbox, you’re ready to take on any stressful situation. The five stress relievers mentioned above can be applied at work, at home, or in almost any environment. As long as you take some time to focus on yourself, stress will become surprisingly manageable. Now get out there, enjoy some sunshine, lie in a hammock, read a good book, and don’t forget, stress doesn’t control you; you control it.
Friday, March 28, 2014
A History of Leisure
Today, we tend to take the amount of time for leisure and relaxation that we typically have for granted. In fact, for some, it is a right; you have a right not to work too many hours in a day or week, and you have a right to your own private time. Rights are tricky, though; it might be more accurate to say that over the years, decades, and centuries of human existence, people have fought for these rights – what we would really call privileges – so that you could enjoy them today. Indeed, the history of leisure is also the history of changing ideas about the role of the human being in society.
Everybody’s Working for the 19th Century
Labor as a class goes all the way back to ancient times, when slaves served in the Roman Empire and free laborers worked for their daily bread while wealthy patricians generally participated in political, military, and artistic endeavors. They enjoyed quite a bit of leisure, but for the lower classes, leisure was hard to come by. Gladiatorial games, sports, and other pursuits of that nature were primarily how those classes relaxed. Yes, it’s true; slaves actually had their own free time, for the most part, when it came to the Roman Empire.
With the fall of the Roman Empire, these comparatively idyllic times came to an end. For people in the Middle Ages, life was solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short, to quote Hobbes. The class differences as far as leisure were concerned were emphasized, as resources and infrastructure were more scant for much of this period in European culture. Jousting tournaments, hunting, and games that would eventually become chess and checkers were developed during this time, however, proving that even in the dreary, harsh world of the Middle Ages, people found ways to entertain themselves and relax.
Still, people worked very hard, all the more so due to the Church forbidding several forms of entertainment. This started to change with the Renaissance and acceptance of higher art forms like theater as a way for the common man to relax and enjoy himself after a long day of work.
Leisure, Leisure, Everywhere!
The industrial revolution brought massive changes to how society functioned. Suddenly, with the help of machines, quite a bit more labor could be accomplished with considerably less time and manpower. People had much more time on their hands, and more wealth began to accumulate in the middle classes as the owning, managing, and financing of these means of production became great avenues to relative wealth.
Between their newfound extra time and wealth, individuals began looking for things to do with all of it – leading to what we might call the first real instances of leisure. Picnicking, playing sports, with friends or in casual leagues, and even vacations became regular activities for individuals and families who previously would never have dreamt of such leisure.
What a Hammock Offers in the 21st Century
Today, we have even more leisure time than our industrial revolution ancestors. The workers of that time and in the 20th century fought for limitations on the work week, increases in wages, and other stipulations that would lead to a wealthier middle class with more free time on its hands, which probably describes your situation perfectly! Now you have a wealth of options as far as what to do with all your free time. Film, music, shopping, travel, fine food and drink, and more are all yours to enjoy whenever you like; to the peasant living in the Middle Ages, you live like a king!
Sometimes, though, it’s all a bit too much. We here at Seaside Hammocks believe in taking time to chill out and reflect on life. Watch the sun set, enjoy a nice drink, and listen to the radio in the background as you meditate on your life and really take the time to center yourself. Our modern lives are full of leisure, after all, but also full of distractions and stresses that we all too often let get in the way of our happiness.
Ultimately, this is why we’re such big proponents of the hammock. Because even while we have gained more leisure time and more things to do with that time, we still have a basic human need for peace, quiet, relaxation, and a good midday nap. These days, that’s something only a hammock can provide!
Everybody’s Working for the 19th Century
Labor as a class goes all the way back to ancient times, when slaves served in the Roman Empire and free laborers worked for their daily bread while wealthy patricians generally participated in political, military, and artistic endeavors. They enjoyed quite a bit of leisure, but for the lower classes, leisure was hard to come by. Gladiatorial games, sports, and other pursuits of that nature were primarily how those classes relaxed. Yes, it’s true; slaves actually had their own free time, for the most part, when it came to the Roman Empire.
With the fall of the Roman Empire, these comparatively idyllic times came to an end. For people in the Middle Ages, life was solitary, poor, nasty, brutish, and short, to quote Hobbes. The class differences as far as leisure were concerned were emphasized, as resources and infrastructure were more scant for much of this period in European culture. Jousting tournaments, hunting, and games that would eventually become chess and checkers were developed during this time, however, proving that even in the dreary, harsh world of the Middle Ages, people found ways to entertain themselves and relax.
Still, people worked very hard, all the more so due to the Church forbidding several forms of entertainment. This started to change with the Renaissance and acceptance of higher art forms like theater as a way for the common man to relax and enjoy himself after a long day of work.
Leisure, Leisure, Everywhere!
The industrial revolution brought massive changes to how society functioned. Suddenly, with the help of machines, quite a bit more labor could be accomplished with considerably less time and manpower. People had much more time on their hands, and more wealth began to accumulate in the middle classes as the owning, managing, and financing of these means of production became great avenues to relative wealth.
Between their newfound extra time and wealth, individuals began looking for things to do with all of it – leading to what we might call the first real instances of leisure. Picnicking, playing sports, with friends or in casual leagues, and even vacations became regular activities for individuals and families who previously would never have dreamt of such leisure.
What a Hammock Offers in the 21st Century
Today, we have even more leisure time than our industrial revolution ancestors. The workers of that time and in the 20th century fought for limitations on the work week, increases in wages, and other stipulations that would lead to a wealthier middle class with more free time on its hands, which probably describes your situation perfectly! Now you have a wealth of options as far as what to do with all your free time. Film, music, shopping, travel, fine food and drink, and more are all yours to enjoy whenever you like; to the peasant living in the Middle Ages, you live like a king!
Sometimes, though, it’s all a bit too much. We here at Seaside Hammocks believe in taking time to chill out and reflect on life. Watch the sun set, enjoy a nice drink, and listen to the radio in the background as you meditate on your life and really take the time to center yourself. Our modern lives are full of leisure, after all, but also full of distractions and stresses that we all too often let get in the way of our happiness.
Ultimately, this is why we’re such big proponents of the hammock. Because even while we have gained more leisure time and more things to do with that time, we still have a basic human need for peace, quiet, relaxation, and a good midday nap. These days, that’s something only a hammock can provide!
Thursday, January 30, 2014
How to Pick the Perfect Hammock Spot
Rest and relaxation come at a premium these days. It can seem as though you’re working more hours and finding more and more reasons to stress out every day, which makes your “me time” all the more important. Without a good stretch of rest, relaxation, meditation, and personal enrichment, well… it makes Jack a dull boy, to say the least. It’s important to create a space for yourself where you can experience that rest and relaxation, and that is why so many turn to hammocks – you can do little but relax in them!
Well, you can also read, browse the web, listen to music, and enjoy a cool drink in a hammock, but your hammock is first and foremost all about chilling out, lying back, and relaxing. Yet choosing the perfect hammock for you (no small task in itself!) is only the start of your quest for relaxation supremacy. Deciding where to hang your hammock can be just as chock full of decision-making as deciding where to plant your garden, where to build your home, or whom to marry! (That escalated quickly…)
Keeping Cool
There are many things you’re going to want to look for when finding a good spot to hang your hammock. The first is natural shade. This is a traditional feature of the hammock, as you often see them hung between two trees, with the branches and leaves providing shade. The shade does a lot for you; it keeps you cool, allowing you to rest in your hammock for extended periods of time, and it keeps the sun off your skin so as to prevent sunburn.
The shade should be natural, however, to ensure that some light filters through the leaves and branches so that you have clear vision; otherwise, you can do naught but nap in your hammock. The shadow of your home, for example, will just serve to keep you in deep shade all the time.
Creature Comforts
Next, you need the comforts of a good hammock. A portable stand is key; something that is designed and balanced to accommodate the location of your hammock. With a portable stand, you can place your drink there, your book, your computer, or whatever you like. It’s hard to imagine that you’re going to need a table until you do – which is going to be often! Even if you just want to take your phone out and set an alarm, the stand is a great place to set it.
If you can swing it, you should try to make certain your hammock is hung poolside. A pool cools the air around it and provides a restful and relaxing view from your hammock. You just have to be certain that your hammock is made out of a material that can handle the humidity that the pool will kick up into the air.
Averting Disaster
Finally, you will need sturdy anchors for your hammock. While you can hypothetically hang your hammock just about anywhere, if it is not sufficiently supported and held up, it could fall while you lie in it, potentially doing serious physical harm to you. At the very least, the hammock could be damaged!
Trees are the traditional answer to this problem, but may hammock owners use fence posts, sheds, or even the side of their house as an anchor. None of these are usable without high quality hooks and other hardware, though; modern hammocks require a few extra bits and pieces to ensure that they are completely safe and comfortable.
Making Space For Yourself
If you hang your hammock in the incorrect spot or in an incorrect way, you may find yourself wondering what all the fuss over hammocks is about. Lying there in an unstable hammock, the sun in your eyes, always getting a sunburn, feeling hot and sweaty, with nowhere to set your book and drink except to balance them carefully on your stomach… yeah, it’s no wonder you aren’t enjoying your hammock!
Take the right steps to set your hammock up for comfort and relaxation and you will be rewarded with a space of your own, a place you can get away from it all without having to fly to Boca Raton. You deserve it, and thankfully, it isn’t hard to get what you deserve with a hammock!
Well, you can also read, browse the web, listen to music, and enjoy a cool drink in a hammock, but your hammock is first and foremost all about chilling out, lying back, and relaxing. Yet choosing the perfect hammock for you (no small task in itself!) is only the start of your quest for relaxation supremacy. Deciding where to hang your hammock can be just as chock full of decision-making as deciding where to plant your garden, where to build your home, or whom to marry! (That escalated quickly…)
Keeping Cool
There are many things you’re going to want to look for when finding a good spot to hang your hammock. The first is natural shade. This is a traditional feature of the hammock, as you often see them hung between two trees, with the branches and leaves providing shade. The shade does a lot for you; it keeps you cool, allowing you to rest in your hammock for extended periods of time, and it keeps the sun off your skin so as to prevent sunburn.
The shade should be natural, however, to ensure that some light filters through the leaves and branches so that you have clear vision; otherwise, you can do naught but nap in your hammock. The shadow of your home, for example, will just serve to keep you in deep shade all the time.
Creature Comforts
Next, you need the comforts of a good hammock. A portable stand is key; something that is designed and balanced to accommodate the location of your hammock. With a portable stand, you can place your drink there, your book, your computer, or whatever you like. It’s hard to imagine that you’re going to need a table until you do – which is going to be often! Even if you just want to take your phone out and set an alarm, the stand is a great place to set it.
If you can swing it, you should try to make certain your hammock is hung poolside. A pool cools the air around it and provides a restful and relaxing view from your hammock. You just have to be certain that your hammock is made out of a material that can handle the humidity that the pool will kick up into the air.
Averting Disaster
Finally, you will need sturdy anchors for your hammock. While you can hypothetically hang your hammock just about anywhere, if it is not sufficiently supported and held up, it could fall while you lie in it, potentially doing serious physical harm to you. At the very least, the hammock could be damaged!
Trees are the traditional answer to this problem, but may hammock owners use fence posts, sheds, or even the side of their house as an anchor. None of these are usable without high quality hooks and other hardware, though; modern hammocks require a few extra bits and pieces to ensure that they are completely safe and comfortable.
Making Space For Yourself
If you hang your hammock in the incorrect spot or in an incorrect way, you may find yourself wondering what all the fuss over hammocks is about. Lying there in an unstable hammock, the sun in your eyes, always getting a sunburn, feeling hot and sweaty, with nowhere to set your book and drink except to balance them carefully on your stomach… yeah, it’s no wonder you aren’t enjoying your hammock!
Take the right steps to set your hammock up for comfort and relaxation and you will be rewarded with a space of your own, a place you can get away from it all without having to fly to Boca Raton. You deserve it, and thankfully, it isn’t hard to get what you deserve with a hammock!
From the Jungle to the Backyard: A History of Hammocks
Surely the height of leisure and simplicity is the hammock. A seemingly simple piece of cloth strung up between two aboveground points, the hammock has rocked more than one person to a mid-day nap, enjoyed as they are across the world. From Japan to California, everyone from the humblest pauper to the wealthiest entrepreneur enjoys a few hours in their favorite hammock.
The hammock wasn’t always such a relaxing leisure item, however. In fact, your hammock has had quite an adventure, historically speaking; everyone from Christopher Columbus and the Yucatan Indians to the North Vietnamese Army and WWII sailors have used the hammock at one time or another, and it wasn’t always the perfect, comfortable design that it is today!
The First Hammock
Europeans learned quite a bit from the Native Americans that they encountered when they came upon the “New World,” including the use and construction of hammocks. Hammocks were initially brought back to Europe by Christopher Columbus after he saw their use among the Taino Indians of the West Indies; among the Taino, the hammock comes from the Arawakan word meaning “fish net,” which rather accurately describes how they looked! These hammocks were made out of the bark of the hamack tree, as well as sisal fibers; in other regions, fronds and other plant fibers were also used in the construction of the hammock.
South America and the West Indies were covered in heavy vegetation, with more than its share of snakes, scorpions, insects, and other unpleasant creatures who caused disease, illness, and injury. The hammock was the Native American solution to this problem; rather than set about trying to combat the ever-resilient jungle’s flora and fauna, they instead set themselves above the dangers of their environment with their hammock, increasing cleanliness and decreasing illness.
Europeans learned to create their own hammocks when Columbus brought the Native American designs back with him from cotton, canvas, and a variety of other materials. They became a leisure item enjoyed by many; the use and comfort of the hammock was immediately obvious to anyone who tried one out!
It should be noted that for hundreds of years in India, specifically in the southern regions, a kind of hammock was built out of the traditional sari worn by women there. This hammock was used for infants to rest and sleep in; children enjoy the feeling of constriction, as it is only later in life that we begin to yearn for freedom. To this day, saris are still hung from the ceiling for babies to be suspended from.
The Age of Sail… and Hammock
At the start of the 17th century, the British Royal Navy began using canvas hammocks in their ships. The hammock provided a number of benefits over the traditional bunk, from saving space to being easily transportable, but the greatest benefit was in the safety and comfort it provided to sailors. Because the hammock moved with the heave and swell of the ship, the sailor was kept safe and secure in the hammock, rather than being thrown out due to the motion of the ship. Before the introduction of hammocks, many sailors were injured and even killed due to being thrown out of their bed on rough seas.
Of course, at this time, hammocks were made out of canvas, not the netting and plant fibers that Native Americans preferred. This was unfortunate for the sailors of the time, as canvas isn’t exactly known for its breathability. For many years, sailors were made to sweat out their sleeping hours in one of the most uncomfortable hammock designs ever made. Some improvements were made, however; for example, sailors were issued a small mattress for use in the hammock to keep cold air from penetrating the bottom of the hammock in colder climates.
Modern Hammocks for Modern Times
Hammocks saw some of their earliest use in the 20th century in the prevention of malaria. Specifically, as workers built the Panama Canal, many of them became ill due to the spread of yellow fever. To combat this, hammocks were issued to the workers; mosquito nets spread perfectly across hammocks, making them the perfect bedding to complement the protection the workers needed.
Hammocks continued to be issued to sailors and soldiers. Throughout World War II, American forces were often issued hammocks, which increased carrying capacity, as opposed to the bunks that some ships were outfitted with. Throughout the Pacific island campaigns, American forces would dig trenches and suspend their hammocks within the trench to avoid machine gun and artillery fire while getting a good night’s sleep.
Later, the hammock returned to the jungle during the Vietnam War, when American forces were in conflict with the North Vietnamese Army. The NVA and Viet Cong would create jungle hammocks out of US parachutes and shroud lines, using them to reduce disease and illness, which many commanders saw as a greater danger than the shrapnel that could result from sleeping above ground.
Today, hammocks have largely moved from being a military affair to becoming a thing of leisure and comfort yet again. You rarely see hammocks constructed strictly of canvas anymore; instead, high quality hammocks are often made of polycotton and polyester materials woven together to make the hammock large, soft, breathable, and strong. The hammock you are resting in is the result of hundreds of years of testing, innovation, and use in every scenario that you can imagine a hammock in – and then some!
The hammock wasn’t always such a relaxing leisure item, however. In fact, your hammock has had quite an adventure, historically speaking; everyone from Christopher Columbus and the Yucatan Indians to the North Vietnamese Army and WWII sailors have used the hammock at one time or another, and it wasn’t always the perfect, comfortable design that it is today!
The First Hammock
Europeans learned quite a bit from the Native Americans that they encountered when they came upon the “New World,” including the use and construction of hammocks. Hammocks were initially brought back to Europe by Christopher Columbus after he saw their use among the Taino Indians of the West Indies; among the Taino, the hammock comes from the Arawakan word meaning “fish net,” which rather accurately describes how they looked! These hammocks were made out of the bark of the hamack tree, as well as sisal fibers; in other regions, fronds and other plant fibers were also used in the construction of the hammock.
South America and the West Indies were covered in heavy vegetation, with more than its share of snakes, scorpions, insects, and other unpleasant creatures who caused disease, illness, and injury. The hammock was the Native American solution to this problem; rather than set about trying to combat the ever-resilient jungle’s flora and fauna, they instead set themselves above the dangers of their environment with their hammock, increasing cleanliness and decreasing illness.
Europeans learned to create their own hammocks when Columbus brought the Native American designs back with him from cotton, canvas, and a variety of other materials. They became a leisure item enjoyed by many; the use and comfort of the hammock was immediately obvious to anyone who tried one out!
It should be noted that for hundreds of years in India, specifically in the southern regions, a kind of hammock was built out of the traditional sari worn by women there. This hammock was used for infants to rest and sleep in; children enjoy the feeling of constriction, as it is only later in life that we begin to yearn for freedom. To this day, saris are still hung from the ceiling for babies to be suspended from.
The Age of Sail… and Hammock
At the start of the 17th century, the British Royal Navy began using canvas hammocks in their ships. The hammock provided a number of benefits over the traditional bunk, from saving space to being easily transportable, but the greatest benefit was in the safety and comfort it provided to sailors. Because the hammock moved with the heave and swell of the ship, the sailor was kept safe and secure in the hammock, rather than being thrown out due to the motion of the ship. Before the introduction of hammocks, many sailors were injured and even killed due to being thrown out of their bed on rough seas.
Of course, at this time, hammocks were made out of canvas, not the netting and plant fibers that Native Americans preferred. This was unfortunate for the sailors of the time, as canvas isn’t exactly known for its breathability. For many years, sailors were made to sweat out their sleeping hours in one of the most uncomfortable hammock designs ever made. Some improvements were made, however; for example, sailors were issued a small mattress for use in the hammock to keep cold air from penetrating the bottom of the hammock in colder climates.
Hammocks saw some of their earliest use in the 20th century in the prevention of malaria. Specifically, as workers built the Panama Canal, many of them became ill due to the spread of yellow fever. To combat this, hammocks were issued to the workers; mosquito nets spread perfectly across hammocks, making them the perfect bedding to complement the protection the workers needed.
Hammocks continued to be issued to sailors and soldiers. Throughout World War II, American forces were often issued hammocks, which increased carrying capacity, as opposed to the bunks that some ships were outfitted with. Throughout the Pacific island campaigns, American forces would dig trenches and suspend their hammocks within the trench to avoid machine gun and artillery fire while getting a good night’s sleep.
Later, the hammock returned to the jungle during the Vietnam War, when American forces were in conflict with the North Vietnamese Army. The NVA and Viet Cong would create jungle hammocks out of US parachutes and shroud lines, using them to reduce disease and illness, which many commanders saw as a greater danger than the shrapnel that could result from sleeping above ground.
Today, hammocks have largely moved from being a military affair to becoming a thing of leisure and comfort yet again. You rarely see hammocks constructed strictly of canvas anymore; instead, high quality hammocks are often made of polycotton and polyester materials woven together to make the hammock large, soft, breathable, and strong. The hammock you are resting in is the result of hundreds of years of testing, innovation, and use in every scenario that you can imagine a hammock in – and then some!
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