The Art of the Hammock Nap

There is a reason a hammock nap feels different. Researchers at the University of Geneva found that gentle rocking helped people fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply in a small 2011 study. You did not need a study to know that, but it is nice to have.

The perfect nap, step by step

1. Pick shade that will still be shade in an hour.
2. Hang it low with a good sag.
3. Lie on the diagonal, shoes off.
4. Give it one gentle push.
5. Set a 20 minute alarm, or don't.

Nap upgrades

• A light blanket, even on warm days. Breezes sneak up on you.
• Sunglasses or a hat over your eyes.
• A playlist of waves, rain or nothing at all.

Nap etiquette for shared spaces

Keep the sway gentle near paths, do not hang across trails and pack up if the spot gets busy. Good hammock karma keeps parks open to hangers.