In use since at least 450 B.C.E. in Ancient Greece, the hammock has long been prized for its convenience, portability, and compactness.
For the most part, people have utilized hammocks in tropical climates or on military ships. However, they gained traction over time and are currently used by millions of people all around the globe.
There’s no question that it’s easy to fall asleep while swaying gently back and forth in comfort. But what about the health benefits? Could you sleep in a hammock every single night?
Is Hammock Sleeping Healthy?
A better night’s sleep, the ability to recoup physically and mentally from a day’s work, greater back support, no bed bugs, and the alleviation of insomnia are just some of the benefits of sleeping in a hammock.
However, a good mattress can cost upwards of $5,000, whereas a hammock can be purchased for considerably less.
Can You Get Injured from Sleeping in a Hammock?
While sleeping in a hammock can be nice and relaxing, it does come with some downsides. There are many reports of people getting hurt or even dying when using a hammock.
The majority of recent occurrences involve the fall of hammocks that were attached to trees or columns. Other causes of death related to using a hammock include suffocation and strangulation.
For How Long Should You Lay in the Hammock per Day?
There is no set time for how long you should sleep in a hammock daily. For example, some people use hammocks to nap up to 2 hours a day, while others use them to sleep for 8 hours.
As there is no evidence that sleeping in a hammock regularly is definitely good or bad for your health, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor if you are considering using a hammock as your new bed.
What Cultures Sleep in Hammocks?
While hammocks are generally thought of as a modern invention from Europe, it has been a common practice throughout the Caribbean and other parts of Central and South American countries for centuries.
The hammock was developed by the native peoples of Central and South America and was also very popular in the Caribbean.
When Christopher Columbus landed in the West Indies in the 1400s, he wrote that he saw “people sleeping in nets between the trees.”
Clearly fascinated by the creation, Columbus took the hammock back to Spain, where it quickly gained widespread popularity across Europe and the rest of the world.
Do Hammocks Have Any Health Benefits?
To date, experts haven’t extensively examined the benefits of hammock sleeping. However, there is some evidence that it could offer several benefits.
Pressure Relief
Sleeping on a mattress puts more effort on the shoulders, back, and buttocks. According to folklore, sleeping in a hammock will ease the strain on your spine and limbs.
The notion is that because the surface is softer, your entire body will experience the same amount of pressure. It shapes itself into your body as well.
Deep Sleep
Because of the gentle rocking action, some people report better sleep when using a hammock. In a small study conducted in 2011, this idea was investigated by having 12 men take two 45-minute afternoon naps on different days.
One nap was taken on a fixed bed, and the other was taken in a bed that gently rocked back and forth.
It’s possible that this is because of the calming effect that swinging gently has on the brain. Researchers believe that it may be easier to fall asleep and stay asleep because of the motion.
In addition, the soothing motion of the rocking could contribute to a state of calm that aids in relaxation. However, this focused on short naps and not a full night’s sleep.
Reduced Exposure to Bugs
Dust mites tend to congregate on mattresses, but sleeping in a hammock in a bedroom could help mitigate that problem. However, it won’t completely eliminate the problem of bugs.
Help with Insomnia
There are various ways in which a hammock can enhance your sleep, and you don’t even need to make the full move to one to reap the benefits.
If you suffer from insomnia or back pain, investing in a hammock can provide you with a comfortable alternative sleeping arrangement.
In addition, those who have trouble sleeping or who suffer from chronic discomfort may find that switching to a hammock as their primary sleeping arrangement is very helpful.
Fall Asleep Faster
Sleeping in a hammock has been proven to induce sleep more quickly. Maybe it’s because you’re in an ideal position to fall asleep. Perhaps it’s the swinging itself that has a calming effect.
Hammocks are great if you have trouble sleeping because of frustration, tossing, and turning in bed.
Final Thoughts on Is It Ok To Sleep In A Hammock Every Night
Those who sleep in hammocks regularly promote how it benefits your health. However, there have been hardly any official studies to support their claims scientifically.
Of course, the occasional nap in a comfortable hammock may have you waking up nice and refreshed. But there is no solid evidence regarding if sleeping in a hammock every night is good or bad.