So it’s a nice day outside and you and your peers are looking for a particularly lazy, yet still outdoorsy activity. Well, have I got the best suggestion for you since Betty White suggested sliced bread! (Betty White did not invent sliced bread. However, she is older than the concept of it.) Here is my simple step-by-step guide on how to have the most fulfilling hammocking experience of your life.
1. Obtain a hammock.
This is not very difficult and if you are deciding to purchase, consider that you are investing in a portable outdoor bed. It's a fantastic purchase in my opinion, as I enjoy napping lazily in my local parks. Just make sure you are prepared to wake up to a curious squirrel, or rambunctious toddler.
2. Find a suitable area.
Preferably with trees, however, various sturdy objects can be used, as well, such as (but not limited to): posts, columns, fences, buildings, people, and giraffes. Call me old-fashioned, but the more creative you get with this step, the more you are exposing yourself, and others, to danger!
3. Place straps around your sturdy object of choice.
Sometimes a friend or even stranger is helpful in this situation, as long as they are taller than you. Having the straps higher up gives your hammock more space for optimal hanging and swinging output.
4. Hook hammock to straps.
This can vary on your preferred hammocking style, whether you are more into the tight, cocooned feel or the more slack, lounge-like atmosphere. Whatever your poison, this is completely customizable and not at all etched in stone. Switch it up as much as you want!
5. Get into hammock.
Now, you can be as fancy or mundane as you want with this activity. I prefer to firmly place my hands inside the fabric so as to not overshoot my landing (in said hammock). Depending on how you set up your hammock, sometimes you need to utilize more upper body strength and coordination to successfully get into your hammock.
And there you have it, the perfect way to enjoy a lazy afternoon. I claim no responsibility for any injuries that you inflict on yourself or on others because of your peacocking tendencies.