Day Hammocking: A State of Mind

Day hammocking is mostly a state of mind. If you can get in the right mindset, the details of day hammocking fall into place and a world of backyard-adventure opens up to you. With one catch: you have to leave your backyard.

That's the biggest rule in day hammocking. You must leave your own yard. The other rules are quite self-explanatory. You must lie in a hammock and you must do it during the day. The reasoning for these rules all come back to the mindset.

So what is this "day hammocking state of mind?" Intentional relaxation. Day hammocking is to unapologetically pursue leisure.

Of course, a hammock naturally lends itself to lazy days of refreshment, but why during the day? Because you're not supposed to. Days are for working, business, responsibility, chores, and errands. To recline in a hammock, drifting in and out of sleep, reading a book, listening to the birds chirp is to stand (well, lie) in defiance against the rat race the rest of the world is busy perpetuating. Leaving your own yard? That further reinforces the intentionality of it. Anyone can relax in their own space, but to relax out there, in the big wide world? Oh, that take a connoisseur of leisure.

You are, in essence, claiming the world as your backyard. Day hammocking screams (albeit in soft, soothing tones), "Everywhere I go, I subdue with pure relaxation."

Day hammocking is not for everyone. It is only for those who are willing to put in the effort to completely relax. If you think you have what it takes, I've put together this list of items to help you in your day hammocking (non)expeditions:

Hammock (obviously): I recommend Eagles Nest Hammocks. They're lightweight and packable. Grab a DoubleNest so you can really spread out (or bring a friend. Yes, day hammocking can be a team sport). You'll also need some slapstraps to get it setup.

Daypack: To carry your hammock whilst you search for that perfect location. I really like the Gregory Miwok we just got in. It's light and gives you room for a book, snacks, or whatever relaxation aids you enjoy

Sandals: Chaco sandals are optimal for day hammocking. They give you the support and confidence for getting off the beat path, and then they slip right off when you're ready to get serious.

That's it! Easy. Day hammocking is sure to become your favorite past-time. If you have any more questions, follow the sound of my snoring coming from the parks in Atlanta...