National Hammock Day

July 22nd is National Hammock Day in the U.S. The hammock likely originated early in Central America where it kept people up off the dirt floors and away from creatures and things that crawl in the night. It also kept them cooler in the tropical climate. It didn't make its way to Europe until explorers carried it there in the 1600s. There, it didn't take long for sailors to begin using them on ships for their comfort and maximizing space.

The day comes in mid-summer in my part of the world, and that's a good time to enjoy the breezes flowing around. I will never forget the time I spent in the Yucatan, Mexico, in rooms without air conditioning. I chose to sleep in the hammock provided by the hotel, instead of the bed which held my body heat longer. I've never enjoyed a hammock more.

After swinging their way to far-reaching places, hammocks can be found in a variety of locations and circumstances today. Whether in a backyard, campground, beside a cabin, or stuffed in a backpack or vehicle, they are still traveling around. Some folks still use them for nightly sleep, and daredevils have been known to hang them in some precarious situations, like over a canyon or out a skyscraper. Wherever you hang yours, enjoy National Hammock Day.

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