The hammock has always been a symbol of leisure, relaxation and easy living. The exact origin of National Hammock Day is unknown, but it is known that Hammock day is not a day for work. Hammocks were originally developed by native inhabitants of Central and South America for sleeping. The first hammocks were woven out of bark from a “hamack” tree, hence the name. Later this material was replaced by many different fibers that were more abundant.

Hammock’s are used all over the world and for many purposes. Not only can you use a hammock as a great afternoon lounge spot, but many people use hammocks as their everyday bed. In fact, hammock’s are proven to help people fall asleep faster, as well as improving sleep quality. The gentle rocking motion of a hammock encourages a deeper state of sleep than sleeping on a stationary bed. Now, who wouldn’t be interested in that? As if that wasn’t enough, here is a list of six benefits of sleeping in a hammock:

1. Faster Sleep
2. Zero-Pressure Points
3. Deeper Sleep
4. No More Bed Making
5. Hammocks Are Good for Your Health
6. Comfort
7. If you think about it, hammocks have a smaller eco footprint in comparison to a tent or another form of camping shelter. Less fabric and materials go in to making a hammock than most other shelters or sleeping systems out there. Not to mention if you sleep in a hammock, off the ground, you are saving the vegetation below, as well as protecting yourself from the elements, bugs and wildlife.

So when July 22nd rolls around this year, and every year, take a few minutes to sit back and unwind on a hammock. Let the benefits and relaxation take over your busy mind and just simply “hang out.”

Happy National Hammock Day!

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Snug as a Bug in a Hammock: Grand Trunk Hammock-Compatible Sleeping Bag
I was just introduced to hammock camping this year when I scored a lucky deal on a hammock at a garage sale, and absolutely fell in love. That’s why when I walked past the Grand Trunk booth and saw the hammock/sleeping bag set up I instantly turned around and had to know everything about this product. This patented sleeping bag ($180) is designed specifically to fit around a hammock with openings at the head and feet that cinch around the hammock ties. Additional ties on the head and foot of the bag attach to the same carabiners as the hammock, to ensure that the sleeping bag will stay in place overnight. Typically when you sleep in a bag directly in a hammock, the insulating loft is compressed underneath you. Since the Grand Trunk wraps around the hammock, you avoid this problem entirely.

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