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Mention the word, hammock, and many North Americans think of a rustic looking rope and wood torture device, guaranteed comfortable for all of 5 minutes, if it doesn't dump you out first. Yet worldwide, probably a 100 million or more people use hammocks as their beds. Central and South America, the Philippines and Asia all have millions of hammock users. Each country or region has its own particular style. These are very different in design and materials than those found in our aforementioned outdoor rope hammocks.

The advantages of using a hammock as a bed include comfort, convenience and portability. A properly hung hammock conforms to the contour of the body, supporting it evenly on all sides, and creating no points of pressure such as are found when sleeping on a bed. Many people who toss and turn throughout the night on a bed find that when they sleep in a hammock they wake up in the morning in exactly the same position as when they went to sleep. The gentle swaying of the hammock adds a lulling sense of comfort that also enhances the sleep experience. The support of the hammock is particularly appreciated by back pain sufferers who often find that the increased support of the hammock results in a decreased pain and stiffness level. Of course, sleeping in a hammock is not for everyone; but those who try it have an excellent chance of discovering how good a night's sleep can be.
The two styles of hammocks which are most frequently used as beds are the sprang woven (open diamond weave) hammocks from Mexico and Nicaragua and the cross woven (cotton canvas) style from Brazil. The Mayan and Nicaraguan hammocks derive their supportive nature from the thousands of tiny little cells that form at the intersections of the strings, forming almost a cushion of air to support the inhabitant. Brazilian styles are, in effect, soft hanging blankets that cradle and support the happy dreamer within.
For children I recommend Brazilian cotton hammocks. They are easier to manage than the Mayan or Nicaraguan. You can pick them by whatever cost and decor criteria you wish, as they all make comfortable beds. The thicker, more durable ones increase in comfort with the passage of time, and washings. Adults can choose between the cool airy comfort of the Mayan hammock and the cozier feel of the Brazilian hammock. Hanging space requirements vary from about nine to thirteen feet for Mayan and Brazilian hammocks.