Everywhere you look, they can be seen: hung up on balconies, stacked among the trees and on innumerable porches. Hammocking is known and appreciated far and wide for its relaxing nature and beautiful excuse to spend some time outside. Whether it is with friends or spent entirely alone, the appeal of hammocking is universal and incontestably enjoyable.

There are three specific things that make hammocking so great and a pastime for generations to come. The first is simply how it feels to hammock, close your eyes and you are instantly transported atop the fluffiest cloud in the sky and all stress and worries simply melt away.

If you are feeling a little adventurous, put on some music or bring a book into the hammock session and a favorite hobby is elevated to heights only reachable once suspended in a hammock.

There are several options for cheap hammocks out there and with the only requirement being two points to hang it from, hammocking is a very cheap way to get outside and relax. Just 10 or 15 minutes of air time can be enough to relieve the stress of finals and work.

On top of all the feelings, hammocking is a great group activity. Making a multi-layer hammock sandwich and talking about life with your friends is the perfect way to pass the time. Making elaborate systems to relax and chit chat can make stress flutter right out of your belly faster than when done alone.

Not to mention that two-person hammocks exist, so bring your special someone outside for some snuggle time, or if the area is secluded enough… play patty cake or something else embarrassing.

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The final fantastic aspect of hammocking is the versatility of where it can be done. A hammock can be taken virtually anywhere: car rides, hikes, backpacking or even along the yellow brick road.

As long as there is space in your pack for a hammock, there are endless possibilities where you can go. Take it on top of a mountain to see the view while reclining, into the middle of a forest to listen to the birds and squirrels chattering or to the ocean to hear the waves crash on the shore.

Not only does it serve as a couch wherever trees are, it can also be a tent. Hammocks are a fraction of the size and weight that most are and several versions have bug nets sewn into the fabric to keep the mosquitoes out while you watch the stars.

Just place a sleeping pad on the floor of the hammock to provide insulation from the air circulating underneath your body and bring a blanket or sleeping bag for extra warmth and you have got the perfect set up.

There is no need to sleep on the rocky ground or labor about a complicated tent, all you need is two trees and some straps. By functioning as a tent and having nearly unlimited spatial possibilities, the versatility of hammocks are unmatched.

Cheap, relaxing, versatile and fun, hammocks are the ideal way to get outside and escape the everyday responsibilities bogging you down. Varying in size, design and price, there is a hammock out there for everyone and with all the benefits hammocks offer, there is no good reason to resist falling for the recreational activity sweeping the nation.