National Hammock Day
National Hammock Day is celebrated every year on July 22 to commemorate the universal symbol for relaxation. Developed by the Mayans of Central and South America for sleeping or resting, a hammock is a sling made of fabric, rope or netting, which is suspended between two points such as posts or trees. Most often, hammocks were made from the woven bark from the Hamack Tree — hence “hamacas”. Today the hammock is often seen as a symbol of summer, leisure, relaxation, and simple, easy living. So grab your favorite book, put your feet up, and relax!
HISTORY OF NATIONAL HAMMOCK DAY
Since the 13th century, humans have enjoyed napping and resting in hammocks that have been tied together between two trees. The word “Hammock” originated from a Taino culture Arwakan word meaning “fishnet”. The name is also derived from the Hamack tree because hammocks used to be woven from their bark. Though hammocks are used around the world, their popularity is arguably at its peak in Latin America, and some say that hammocks embody the ‘relaxed’ lifestyle traditional to those countries and the Caribbean.
It was invented by the native-born people of Middle and South America, who called them “Hamacas”, in the Taino language. Columbus first encountered the hammock in the Bahamas. He observed in 1492 that “people were sleeping in nets between the trees”. He brought the hammock back to Europe where sailors started using it extensively because swinging while suspended in the air led to better sleep than they were previously experiencing on the dirty ship floor.
Nowadays the hammock serves as a bed to some or a symbol of leisure to others. Popular brands like ENO have made hammocking stylish with their sleek materials and colors. Many people today would consider hammocking a social activity, or a place for personal relaxation. Hammocking can be a fun way to spend time with the people you are closest to.
WHY WE LOVE NATIONAL HAMMOCK DAY
A. You get some me time
You go to work for eight hours, come home, and have to cook dinner. If you’re a parent, you have to take care of your child on top of all of that. Life can be so hectic, so self-care is very important. On National Hammock Day, you get to take a break from all that craziness and recharge.
B. You get to unplug
We could all use a few minutes away from our smart phones and computers. Participating in the national holiday allows you to unplug from technology, relax, get outside and get some fresh air. But if you must bring your phone, turn off your ringer and turn up your playlist.
C. Adult naps
You have to admit, taking midday naps was the one of the best things about being a kid. National Hammock Day is a day where you can indulge in a guilt-free adult nap. A short nap of 20-30 minutes can help to improve mood, alertness and performance.
References:
“National Hammock Day” │ https://nationaltoday.com/national-hammock-day/