Hammocking is a trend that has swept through the nation. Although I have become more aware of the futility of trends over the past few months, hammocking is one I stand beside with a ceaseless, unfailing loyalty. I rarely leave home without my hammock, and those around me on campus feel the same. When the sun comes out, so do the hammocks. But it's not isolated to Western Washington University; happy hammocking people are dotting college campuses around the country this spring.

It’s all pretty simple: Hammocking rocks. If you don’t yet understand how you’ve developed such a deep relationship with an inanimate object, here are some likely possibilities.

1. A hammock is like a transportable bed.

Have you ever wished you could pack your bed into a bag and take it anywhere? Well, a hammock is as close as you’re going to get to that reality. Whether you’re looking to nap or just chill and read, a hammock is a cozy oasis that will become your bed away from bed. It also is a great replacement for the long outdated picnic blanket -- especially when the ground is wet.

2. It doesn’t take up any space.

It fits everywhere. End of story.

3. Mocking has social benefits.

Friends are wonderful -- so are hammocks. It’s like the new peanut butter and jelly. I’ve discovered that mocking with friends brings people together, literally. I love being pushed up tight beside people I only sort of know -- it’s weird and really great.

4. Stickability.

If you’re a fan of the social benefits of mocking, I bet you’d be up for some serious stacking. On campus, stacks of eight hammocks have been spotted frequently near Fairhaven. Is it sad that I'm not at all concerned about the unsafety of it all?

5. It’s hella fun.

Has your life become a mundane pile of nothingness? Well, do I have a solution for you! Buy a hammock. Not only do you feel like a boss when you first learn to set it up, a hammock makes doing nothing an adventure. You could do nothing in a parking lot, on the beach, and even in the comfort of your own home -- in a hammock!

6. Hammocks are perfect for any adventure.

I love people with hammocks -- they are my people. Having a hammock is a sign you’re either up for a solid nap, spontaneous, or both! During a recent backpacking trip, every night was spent chilling in my hammock -- tired and content.

What a life.