Hammocks - Why People Who Use Hammocks Smile

TV commercials and magazine or Internet ads featuring hammocks often show someone lying in one under palm trees with an orange sun in the sky. That image, obviously, is designed to create a certain mood in the potential buyer. But it is only successful because there's a lot of truth in it. Hammocks are great.

Though you may not always be so fortunate as to enjoy one near a sunny beach with a refreshing drink at hand, lying in a hammock is indeed a great pleasure. The material and distinctive geometry have been in use for centuries in Central and South America. They know a thing or two about how to have a fine siesta.

But even strung up between two trees in the yard, or on a hammock stand on the porch, a hammock can be a thing of beauty. They come in hundreds of individual designs, which have a variety of colors, material and shapes.

Some follow the Mayan tradition of being woven loosely to allow plenty of air flow and lots of stretch. Others are more like the Brazilian design, which use a tightly woven wide strip of cloth to form the bed. Spreader bars, though not part of these traditions, are sometimes used (an adaptation of the Polynesian method). They thread through or attach to the support ropes and turn the banana shape into a rectangle.

But whether thread or cotton strip, nylon or linen, curved or flat, they all offer a delightfully relaxing experience. Even a simple rope hammock can offer a cool, comfortable rest. With a wide mesh and very stretchable thick twine, they're a great way to stay refreshed and enjoy a summer day.

Campers or backpackers have yet another style. Made from strong nylon, often with mosquito nets or rain tents, a camping hammock can be a great alternative to a standard tent. They typically tie up to trees, keeping occupants off the ground and away from insects or snakes.

But before you can use one, you have to construct one. Fortunately, that's now easier than ever. Tree straps make hanging a hammock a job that only takes a few minutes. For those without conveniently placed and spaced trees, hammock stands offer a strong, simple-to-assemble support.

Along with a variety of styles of support, there are dozens of handy and decorative hammock accessories available. Pillows, cup or glass holders, replacement springs and much more are low-cost and simple to order.

They're not only comfortable to use, but attractive furniture as well. And keeping them looking fine requires only modest care. A simple washing from time to time and a bit of polishing or spraying to coat the support will keep them looking new. Many stands are available in fine, elegant woods and some simple maintenance will make them shine.

Then when you're done with the care and re-hanging, you can crawl back in, grab that drink and imagine you're on some tropical isle with a cool breeze blowing. After all, you deserve a reward for all that hard work.