Mastering the Art of Hammock Hanging for Maximum Relaxation
5 min readFew things in life are as peaceful and relaxing as gently swaying in a hammock on a warm sunny day. The gentle rocking motion has an incredibly calming effect that disappears all your worries.
Getting the perfect hammock hang, though, can be an art form. You need to get it quite fitting to avoid becoming uncomfortable, unable to get in and out quickly, or even dumped onto the ground!
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll give you pro tips on how and where to hang your hammock for maximum comfort and relaxation—from choosing the ideal hammocking spot, getting the right height and angle, and picking suitable anchor points, plus accessories and additions for extra coziness. Read on to master the art of the perfect hammock hang.
Choosing the Ideal Hammocking Location
The first step in achieving hammock hanging nirvana is picking the perfect location and knowing how to hang a hammock perfectly. This will vary depending on whether you plan to hang indoors or outdoors. Key things to consider are:
Outdoors:
- Protection from sun/rain/wind
- Natural beauty – near water, trees etc
- Privacy
- Accessibility
- Safety – away from dead trees, pools, cliffs etc
Indoors:
- Clear floor space
- Sturdy anchor points on walls – studs, joists or heavy furniture
- Warm, comfortable room – bedroom, living room, etc
Getting protection from the elements is most important when hanging outside. Having soothing views of nature and privacy also adds to the relaxation factor. Make sure your spot is safely accessible and free from hazards, too.
Pick a roomy, peaceful spot with walls or furniture that can securely support a hammock anchored to two points when hanging indoors. Near a window with a nice view is ideal.
Getting the Right Height and Angle
One of the keys to hammock-hanging happiness is getting the height and angle dialled in just right. It takes some fine-tuning to find your sweet spot.
Height
Ideally, you want your hammock high enough to enter and exit quickly but not so high that getting in feels like scaling a mountain! About hip to chest height from ground level when standing is optimal for most people.
Angle
The hang angle also affects the comfort and how deeply you sit in the hammock. Around 30° from horizontal is recommended, but play between 20-40° to find what you like best.
You can constantly adjust to get it just right. Lower hammock straps that are too high, or tie adjustable knots if too low. Aim to get that perfect balance between easy access, securely cradled, and a neutral spine position that doesn’t curve too sharply.
Choosing Suitable Anchor Points
When tying up your hammock, what you anchor it to is critical for keeping you comfortably supported and avoiding collapsing to the ground! Solid, sturdy anchor points are a must to relax without worry confidently.
Outdoors
Look for healthy, mature trees at least 8-12 inches thick without signs of damage or decay. Ensure you’re not too close to the tree trunks where rubbing could occur. If trees aren’t available, sturdy wooden posts or steel poles firmly fixed in concrete make solid anchors, too. Freestanding hammock stands offer versatility as temporary anchors wherever you want.
Indoors
For indoor hanging, tie hammock straps securely onto studs or joists inside your wall cavity, not just drywall alone. This spreads the weight over internal framing. Other options include heavy furnishings like wardrobes, sturdy door frames, and tension poles. Just ensure whatever you use can safely support estimated weight loads.
Pro Gear & Accessories for Extra Comfort
Upgrading from just a basic rope hammock to one with padded quilting, pillows, and even a built-in bug net can seriously amplify your R&R. Here’s some top gear for lounging in luxury:
Padded Hammocks
Woven rope hammocks keep air flowing to stay cool in summer. For extra comfy comfort, check out padded quilted hammocks filled with soft polyester fibre or memory foam. The cloud-like support feels dreamy! Look for detachable spreader bars, too, so they’re easier to hang taut.
Hammock Stands
Need suitable trees? No problem! Hammock stands let you hang anywhere with a clear patch of ground. Great for backyard fun or even indoors near an open window. Steel or wood stands with weatherproof finish handle outdoor use well. Ensure weight limits suit you before purchase.
Hammock Rain Fly & Bug Net
If you plan to swing in the elements, having shelter from rain, UV rays and mosquitos can make or break your experience. An overhead tarp rain fly mounted with poles offers refuge in a surprise shower. An integrated no-see-um mesh bug net keeps biting bugs at bay, too, so you can sleep pest-free!
Quilts & Sleeping Bags
For next-level comfort and warmth as temps drop, wrap yourself in a dedicated hammock-friendly quilt! Down and synthetic insulation options for conforming snugly around hammocks prevent cold spots. Water-resistant shell fabrics add protection in wet weather, too. Alternatively, slide into a cozy sleeping bag with your hammock threaded through internal sleeves or use a unique undercut below.
Pillows & Head Support
Remember those all-important Z’s! Use an adjustable ergonomic pillow to properly align your neck and prevent a sore head or stiff neck while napping. Inflatable and foam travel pillows with rear headrest zones offer customizable cushioning for quality catch-up time. Throwing an extra pillow or rolled clothing under the knees relaxes the legs, too.
Bottomline
When hung thoughtfully using robust anchors at an optimal height and angle for one’s preferences, hammocks unlock deeply restorative relaxation. Sensing the gentle rocking while wrapped in warmth and comfort blissfully dissolves tension. Any lingering worries flutter away on the breeze as you bask in the balance of supportive surrender.
Master the art of the perfect hang, and these mini sanctuaries beckon you to restore your mind and body all year round in a simple, cozy style!
So, get out there, find your perfect place in the shade, and start practising hammocking today! Just hang onto your book and beverage as you happily sway the afternoon away.