This Stylish Hammock Keeps Vacation Vibes Going All Year Long

Last year I bought my first hammock and it has improved my mental health more than any other purchase in years. It also fits into my new commitment to an “I’m always on vacation” mindset, which is built on finding serene and transporting moments in my daily life that help me relax and recharge without requiring me to actually take a trip anywhere: It could be as simple as turning off your phone and taking a walk on a tree-lined street, swimming a few laps at the local YMCA, reading (or writing!) poetry in a stolen moment, having a cocktail at a fancy hotel in your hometown, or picnicking at a botanical garden. Along those lines, setting up a hammock in your backyard or on your porch, or, heck, even inside your living room, is going to make instant relaxation a reality in your life. 

Finding the right hammock is surprisingly difficult given all the styles out there, and if you’re a minimalist like me, or slightly space-challenged, you’re going to find too many chunky ropy models that require a massive lawn and two century-old oaks to string it between, garishly-colored outdoorsy styles that look like parachutes, and tasseled hippie versions that look like they were stolen from an Instagram-thirsty boutique in Tulum. In a sea of swaying mediocrity, the Yellow Leaf hammock is just right: Not only is it low-profile and subdued (I picked the khaki “Big Sur” model that’s mold-resistant), but it also fits just about any decor, and the company is committed to fair trade practices and employs artisans in Thailand where the hammocks are made.

Courtesy of Yellow Leaf

The pop science behind why a hammock is so calming is that its gentle sway engages the vestibular system (the inner ear array that helps orient us to our environment) much like rocking a baby does (for this reason, sensory clinics are often equipped with therapeutic hammocks to help patients with emotional regulation). Using the two optional “Go-Anywhere” straps and sturdy metal S-rings, I lashed one end to my persimmon tree and the other to an eye hook I drilled into the vertical 4 x 4 post of my side-yard fence. I chose the position because it is shaded and allows me to look up at the leaves and slivers of sky for a little instant forest bathing. The way your weight is distributed in a cocooning manner across the tight weave takes pressure off the hips and spine. I can fully attest that even 10 minutes in my Yellow Leaf Hammock brings my heart rate, respiration, and blood pressure down.

Courtesy of Yellow Leaf

A few rules I have around the hammock to preserve its status as a chill space: For starters, no laptop allowed. It’s too easy to get into a work mode when you’re using the primary tool of work. Yes, I sometimes bring my phone with me, but I try to limit it to communication with friends and family, reading for leisure (not the news!), and no doom-scrolling is allowed. Sleeping/napping is encouraged.

I also love that the weather-safe performance yarn won’t fade, is super soft, and when the hammock gets dusty, all you have to do is give it a shake once in a while and clean it with a hose maybe once every six months. In the year that I’ve had it, with twice-weekly use, the amortized cost of the hammock has been about two bucks per escape, which is a small price to pay for 200 mini vacations.

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