Get Your Feet Off the Ground and Into the Swing of Deep Relaxation
Forget keeping your feet on the ground, we all deserve a little time out to dream big and recharge
Keeping your feet on the ground is something to which we should all aspire. Or should we? I tend to think the opposite is true – especially if it means you can recharge your batteries and better cope with any challenges life throws at you. One of the easiest ways to lull yourself into a state of deep relaxation is to succumb to the rocking motion of a hanging chair, hammock or other purpose-built contraption suspended in the air. Why else do you see so many at oceanfront resorts and country retreats? Don’t wait for a holiday; take a break from your worries at every opportunity with one of these heaven-sent swinging delights.
You don’t need acres of space to accommodate a swinging chair or hammock; especially if it’s the focal point of the garden. This tiny Korean courtyard manages to squeeze in not only this amazing swinging platform, but also a reflection pool and dining area. What more could you possibly need?
Into the swing
If you’re short on wall space, and consequently seating, a hammock spanning the gap between two walls could be the solution. Could there be anything more relaxing than grabbing a couple of cushions and a throw and settling into a hammock while you watch a movie? It can also double as extra seating for more than one during a gathering – time to get the party started.
If you’re short on wall space, and consequently seating, a hammock spanning the gap between two walls could be the solution. Could there be anything more relaxing than grabbing a couple of cushions and a throw and settling into a hammock while you watch a movie? It can also double as extra seating for more than one during a gathering – time to get the party started.
This Amsterdam apartment has taken it one step further with a hanging chair AND a hammock. In a light-filled interior, these seating choices not only keep a small living space bright and airy, but lend a relaxed vibe to the home as well.
A sunroom or covered verandah is ideal for a little swing time, even if the hammock takes up most of the space. You’re more likely to use it at any hour of the day or night when it’s under cover, easily accessible, and away from the flies and mozzies, after all.
Stand alone
If you don’t have the right kind of trees to put a hammock in the backyard or you’re dubious about whether your verandah or pergola posts can cope with the weight, a self-contained set-up could suit you better. This one is purpose-built for lazing about with a novel in hand. Pool or ocean views are nice, but by no means necessary.
If you don’t have the right kind of trees to put a hammock in the backyard or you’re dubious about whether your verandah or pergola posts can cope with the weight, a self-contained set-up could suit you better. This one is purpose-built for lazing about with a novel in hand. Pool or ocean views are nice, but by no means necessary.
This design will keep arguments at bay about who gets to have first go in the hammock, and can also be a fun way for friends or family members to come together. Sometimes the best kind of conversations happen when we’re relaxed and unhurried. And how could you not be in a setting like this?
Infinity hammock: Trinity Hammocks
Infinity hammock: Trinity Hammocks
There are endless variations on swinging chairs and hammocks. This one still gives you the sensation of swinging, but its cushioned seat means more than one person can settle in and get comfortable with ease. Or just stretch out and claim the whole thing as your own. Whatever works.
The Bar Harbor porch swing in Ocean: Penobscot Bay Porch Swings
The Bar Harbor porch swing in Ocean: Penobscot Bay Porch Swings
The bubble chair adds an unexpected sense of fun to this stylish open-plan living area, its curves echoed in the coffee table and pendant light over the dining table. Its transparent surrounds allow you to stay connected when others are in the room but provides a cocoon in which to disappear when you’re alone and need some time out.
Eero Aarnio bubble chair: Hive
Eero Aarnio bubble chair: Hive
Talking of cocoons, what could be more nest-like than this hanging pod of perfection? I’d be tempted to hang a blanket over the doorway once inside to completely get away from it all.
Nestrest: Dedon
Nestrest: Dedon
If minimalism is more your thing, these hanging chairs from Ikea are sure to make your heart sing. A sundowner and good company is almost essential to complete the scene though, don’t you think?
YOUR SAY
Which way do you swing? Tell us about your preferences for suspended relaxation in the comments section.
MORE
Chill Out: 17 Ideas to Create More Relaxation Zones at Home
15 Things to Do on Lazy Sunday Afternoons at Home
Indoor-Outdoor: 10 Living Rooms That Cross the Line
Ommmm! 8 Tips to Set Up the Perfect Meditation Space at Home
YOUR SAY
Which way do you swing? Tell us about your preferences for suspended relaxation in the comments section.
MORE
Chill Out: 17 Ideas to Create More Relaxation Zones at Home
15 Things to Do on Lazy Sunday Afternoons at Home
Indoor-Outdoor: 10 Living Rooms That Cross the Line
Ommmm! 8 Tips to Set Up the Perfect Meditation Space at Home
Immersing yourself in nature can fast-track your quest to relaxation and rejuvenation, and research has also shown that time in the outdoors helps both children and adults bounce back far more quickly from traumatic or stressful events. Why not string up a hammock in your garden for a regular dose of me-time. Just be sure to leave your phone, tablet and laptop behind.