Let's face it: using tents require a lot of maintenance, and the last thing you should try during your relaxing time is to use the tricky gear.
In recent years, hammocks have taken the camping world by surprise, and if you sleep in one of them, you will get to understand why.
Hammocks are lighter and easier to use than ever before.
Hammocks can easily weigh less than 2 kilograms and take less space when packed in the bag. If you want a small, lightweight tent ready in no time, then a hammock is the best solution. Hammock nets are much less expensive and durable.
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One significant feature of using a hammock when camping is that it allows you to set up camp anywhere as it can be hanged anywhere. With a hammock in your backpack, you can skip your search for a flat terrain without rocks or hills.
All you need is two trees or spring supports or structural columns that are 3 meters or more apart, and the view before sleeping will look like something on the cover of a Nature magazine.
However, some people hurt their backs when sleeping on a hammock.
Why Do People Hesitate to Sleep in a Hammock?
The Reason Why Some People Hurt Their Back
Some people perceive that sleeping in a hammock gives them back pains or it hurts their back. They probably do not know the proper way to sleep in a hammock.
If you lie down on your length, your body will bend like that of a banana. There is a quick fix to prevent it from falling into a U-shape, head and raised feet and belly at the bottom of the U-shape. Position yourself diagonally. If you cross the covering with your feet on one side and your head on the other, you will be almost flat.
How to Fight Against Extreme or Irrational Fear of Confined Places on a Hammock
The feeling of falling and hurting yourself can cause claustrophobia on a hammock.
You may feel that the sides of the hammock push you too far towards the center. This effect sometimes causes shoulder pain and makes sleeping on it difficult.
Here, the remedy is the same. Make sure to stretch at an angle of about 45 degrees on the net and feel the amount of space you have.
If, on the other hand, you fear claustrophobia after sleeping for a while, one of the best solutions is to try a more extensive hammock.
Typically, large hammocks will not sink between them. If this is not an option, you can create the latest hammock by separating the pillars (trees) and flattening the net or tying it closer to the poles (or trees).
Afraid to Fall?
On the other hand, if what is frightened is not to suffocate, but to fall, do precisely the opposite and let it hang in the middle.
The upper edges provide a sense of security.
How to Avoid Cold Knees and Feet
Often, when the body is constrained to the angles, movements, and severity associated with sleeping in a hammock and is not used to it, you may experience lack of sensation, pain or discomfort in the legs, or numbness upon walking. It is above all an inappropriate blood circulation.
By making the hammock as uniform as possible, it can generally counteract the problems of blood circulation.
If this is not possible in your circumstance, you may not have some freedom with the tree you use to trounce a corner problem. This can help alleviate traffic problems blood with a challenge to the throat or leg.
The use of a pillow under the affected limbs is usually a very effective remedy.
Why Belly Sleepers Should Not Hate Sleeping on a Hammock
Sleeping on your belly in a hammock is quite delicate. But that does not mean that if you sleep on your stomach, it's not for you.
Sleeping in a hammock is something different. Even if you sleep on your belly in a bed, you are probably on your back or side in a hammock. Believe it or not, but you probably like it.
If you as a belly sleeper has low back pain in the morning, you should try sleeping on a hammock because sleeping on your stomach is related to lower back pain.
The lumbar spine suffers from excessive hyperextension, and therefore the back of the spine is trapped.
Why Is Sleeping in a Hammock More Exciting and Even More Useful Than Sleeping in a Tent?
1. Hammock Camping Is Much More Convenient for Transportation
A hammock is often an essential item that most people take to the camp and can weigh from 2 to 4 pounds.
Also, the large dimensions make it difficult to move the tent in the desired field. Instead, a hammock can weigh up to 12 ounces at the time of collapse and the size of a small bag that can be easily transported, even in a smaller container.
Hammocks can also be used as improvised blankets and pillows, making them more useful than tents.
Hammocks can also be quickly installed and disassembled, making the field experience much more enjoyable and convenient overall.
2. Hammock Elevates You Above the Ground
One of the most significant drawbacks of sleeping in a tent is that you have to sleep on the rocks and around other insects or animals.
Also, many tents are fragile, and it creates an environment that is often inconvenient and difficult to sleep.
However, moving from a tent to a hammock allows you to climb a few feet above the ground, away from rocks or animals in the area.
Also, the elevation provides much more excellent ventilation and a general sleeping environment than conventional systems.
3. Hammocks Can Be Installed in More Places Than Tents
Finding a flat or floor surface, even perfectly flat, is often very frustrating with a tent and does not allow you to sleep during a restless night.
Fortunately, using a hammock avoids this because it will enable you to install the "tent" anywhere you see two trees at a distance of 12 feet from each other.
The hammock also allows you to get closer and move in more picturesque landscapes such as mountains, lakes or rivers.
How to Sleep Properly in a Hammock When Camping
#1. Lay Diagonally
Some people do not find the natural curve of a comfortable hammock, which makes them hesitate to sleep at night.
There is a simple solution for those who prefer an excellent sleep position: try to sleep diagonally. This will stretch the material to create a flat surface.
Many people think that this position is more comfortable for the back and neck during the night.
#2. Sit in the Middle of the Hammock
Getting into a hammock can be done quickly if you sit down first so that your weight is evenly distributed in the center.
Then slide your legs and upper body into the net.
#3. Use a Mattress
The nylon parachute from which hammocks are made is not very thick, which makes it so lightweight and portable.
However, in a colder climate, this means that there is not much difference between cold airs. To warm up, take the bed block (the one you would use for camping) and place it on the hammock before going to bed.
The cushion, combined with the sleeping bag, will keep you comfortable and insulated at night.
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#4. Take Off the Shoes and Put on Some Socks
To extend the life of your hammock, leave your shoes on the floor before you settle down.
Large hiking shoes and rubber shoes tighten and wear off the hammock fabric much faster than bare feet. Plus, your shoes are probably dirty with the adventures of the day.
Who fancies to sleep in a hammock full of earth and stones?
Instead, wear a pair of extra socks to keep your feet warm and cozy and leave your shoes just under the net for easy access.
#5. Wrap Yourself Up in a Blanket to Keep Warm
If the hammock has a piece of extra fabric on each side, wrap it to stay in the net. You can even wrap yourself in a blanket to keep you warm all night long.
You can also cover the net with a blanket before placing it so that it stays warm on your back and in front of your body while you sleep.
If it's freezing at night, you can put a sleeping bag in the hammock to keep the heat.
Pro Tips for Sleeping in a Hammock
Buy a Hammock That Is Made of Nylon
Look for a hammock made of nylon because they will be the most comfortable to maintain for a long time. Avoid hammocks made with ropes or straps as they can cause discomfort.
You can buy hammock nets at your everyday store or online.
Choose a Hammock That Matches Your Size and Weight
Hammock nets are available in small, medium and large sizes of varying width and length.
Generally, long and wide hammock is more comfortable. If you are tall, look for one of at least 2.4m long. Bring a very large or extensive hammock if you are an older adult and need more space.
If you have doubts, opt for a more extensive hammock because you do not want to overload a minimal hammock and risk breaking or falling.
Decide If You Need a Double or Single Hammock
If you intend to sleep alone in the hammock, you will need a single hammock. If you plan to sleep with more than one person in the hammock, choose a double hammock to have enough space.
After a trip with a hammock, you will not want to use your old tent anymore.
To help you in your first hammocking adventures, here are three helpful tips to help you take advantage of all the convenience, ease and beauty of hammocks and how to sleep in one.
Conclusion
The beauty of sleeping in a hammock is that it offers several sleeping position.
In a traditional camping area, you are limited to sleeping on your back or upside down. Side sleepers you are under excessive pressure on the hard surface, and if you cannot afford to carry or use a large pillow, then you will find yourself in an awkward position.
In a hammock, you can try all kinds of sleeping positions while feeling comfortable.
Also, sleeping in a hammock is preferable to sleeping in a tent or your bed.
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Hi there, I am Orson Brown, a passionate explorer and the one behind Stop, Reset! Do you like hiking, climbing or camping, but don’t know how to get started? Follow our journey to prepare your trip best!