We all have stressful moments throughout the day. It’s a normal human reaction when going through hard times and other unexpected challenges. However, at times, stress may be overwhelming and expose you to the risk of developing anxiety disorders if you cannot find a solution.
Different studies have proven that self-care activities are one of the quickest solutions for relieving stress and other mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. These activities may be in the form of physical exercise or mindfulness practices such as hammocking.
That said, lying on a hammock provides the peacefulness you need to retreat from the daily chaos and anything else that may be stressing you. It allows you the opportunity to take some time off from all the hustle and bustle and simply sit in nature’s warm embrace.
Want to know more about the benefits of hammocking? Keep Reading!
This article explores why hammocking is the ultimate stress buster.
How does Hammocking help Reduce Stress at Home?
We usually consider self-care to be indulgence activities that you only get to engage in if or when free. Self-care, however, entails all those practices that involve promoting your health and well-being. These include good nutrition, proper sleep hygiene, and of course, mindful practices such as hammocking.
The relationship between hammocking and stress relief goes beyond the fact that it simply makes you feel better in your mind. For example, taking some time out alone and lying in a rope hammock can help you appreciate nature by enhancing your connection to the environment.
You get to see the world from a different perspective when you are suspended above the ground. It’s a unique way of observing nature and appreciating its beauty. This can improve your mood and boost feelings of happiness and overall well-being.
Finding the Right Location
Depending on the nature of your hammock setting, you will need a location that’s both comfortable and convenient for relaxation. The good news is hammocks are low-impact shelters that can go up just about any place. They require no ground preparation and little to no staking.
If you’re doing it outside, as most people would, ensure that there’s no dangerous object below or beside the hammock in case you happen to fall off.
Also, consider setting up your hammock in that spot with shade. It’s perfect if you intend to stay outdoors but at the same time want to protect yourself from the direct sun.
After you have identified the ideal place for hammocking, proceed with the following easy steps:
1. Get the Right Hammock
Not all hammocks are the same. To enjoy the best hammocking experience, choose a portable hammock with straps that can easily be adjusted. You can then find two trees, ideally within a distance of 10 to 15 feet from each other, to set up your hammock. Ensure the ground beneath is free from any sharp object (just in case).
2. Set it Up Correctly
Try to suspend it so that the middle height between the two ends is a little lower without touching the ground. The perfect angle is 30 degrees, and the angle created by the straps and trees should be as comprehensive as comfortable.
3. Bring Comfort Essentials
Bringing some extras along while hammocking can make a difference and transform your whole outdoor experience. You can bring a comfy, warm blanket, a great book, or even a small cushion to help support your neck. Keep in mind that hammocking is for relaxation, so if you do not achieve ’a perfect setup’ the first time, that is quite fine.
Benefits of Hammocking
Hammocking has great benefits for the mind, body, and soul for those who want to stop stressing about reaching any perfect trail and enjoy the great outdoors.
Following are four reasons why you should relate to a hammock while outdoors:
1. Reduces Stress Naturally
Hammock swinging can make you relax by forcing you to slow down and even take deep breaths, lowering cortisol levels, which causes stress. It provides a comfortable space for mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises.
Relaxing in a hammock can help you focus on the present moment, quiet your mind, and reduce stress and anxiety.
2. Improves Sleep and Relaxation
Simply lying or sitting in a hammock encourages relaxation by promoting a sense of leisure and slowing down the pace of life. Taking time to unwind in a hammock can help you release stressors and recharge mentally and physically.
And unlike a regular bed that often restricts movement, hammocks gently cuddle the body, promoting a more restorative sleep.
3. Encourages Mindfulness
When hammocking alone, away from the usual busy schedule, you’re in a more pronounced environment with fewer distractions. All you can see is the sight of nature or the sound of falling leaves. This immerses you in the present moment, which alone encourages mindfulness.
4. Reduced Pressure Points
A rope hammock, or any hammock, for that matter, isn’t the same as ordinary beds or chairs. When you lie in a hammock, your weight is evenly distributed, reducing pressure points on your body. This can relieve tension in muscles and joints, promoting relaxation and reducing all forms of physical discomfort associated with stress.
Final Thoughts
Hammocking provides a comfortable and convenient means to regroup, recharge, and return to your daily routine. This is an excellent activity and helps relieve stress, especially if done along with other stress-relief activities like exercising and meditation.
Next time you’re too freaked out, just throw up a hammock and go commune with nature.
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