It’s easier than you might think to swing into a better life. Sleeping in a hammock delivers impressive benefits that could revolutionize the way you think about sleep. Insomnia? A thing of the past for many who use hammocks. Aches and pains? Diminished considerably. Increased ability to concentrate? You guessed it, just another benefit regular users of hammocks report feeling.
Check out these and other perks to hammocking that you probably never realized:
Fall Asleep Faster
Did you know that hammocks help you fall asleep faster (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t want to fall asleep faster)? A study from Current Biology reveals scientific support that “rocking can soothe our sleep” and provide “accelerated sleep onset.”
This is because swinging exerts a synchronizing action in our brains that lulls us into sleep, much like when we were babies. Hammocks make the same motion, which is one of the reasons they’re so calming and relaxing.
Sleep Deeper
Even better than faster sleep onset is the ability to go into deep sleep. How is this possible? According to the same Current Biology study, the hammock’s swinging motion actually changes your brain’s electrical activity. Mentioned in the study as oscillations and spindles, electrical activity is boosted when you are swinging in a hammock. These rhythmic electrical activities are noted as “hallmarks of deep sleep,” according to the study. In other words, boosting these means your body has a better chance to sleep and recover, restoring organs and damaged tissue. This recovery process is integral to optimal health, increasing alertness and your ability to memorize and learn.
In that case, let the good times swing.
It May Help Relieve Back Pain
Since a hammock has a zero pressure-point surface, you’ll be suspended in comfort—which can help relieve pains and aches you may get from lying on a conventional flat surface mattress. It also helps that the position you’re in while resting in a hammock is considered the “ideal sleep posture,” which is lying on your back with your head slightly elevated at about 10-30 degrees.
Whether it’s just a 20-30 minute snooze or an overnight affair, you’ll find it might be just the thing to help reset and refresh your body.
You Can Take it Just About Anywhere
Hammocks aren’t just for setting up between two palm trees on the beach; with an easy-to-transport frame and a carrying case, there’s practically no limit to where you can swing your cares away. It’s the perfect outlet for feeding your adventurous spirit and reducing stress, whether you’re at the park with friends, on a hiking trail, or even in your own backyard.
They’re Long Lasting
Hammocks come in a wide variety of price points, depending on the type of material used and how they’re manufactured. Choosing woven and reinforced hammocks made from cotton or an acrylic blend will last you for years to come.
Ready to Rock?
There’s no time like the present to cocoon yourself in a cozy hammockand reap all its benefits. For a dreamy afternoon nap, or perhaps a fun expedition with friends in the woods, your hammock will quickly become a seating and sleeping staple you won’t want to do without.
How do you chill out on your hammock? Send us a picture and use the hashtag #MyAshleyHome for a chance to be featured on our Instagram. There’s plenty more ways to to relax outside so make sure to check out all of our outdoor products.