
Sleeping in a hammock is good for the brain.
Scientists have confirmed what many mothers have known for eons: you can get the best rest by dozing in a hammock or on another gently swinging surface.
A study by Swiss researchers showed that napping on a slowly swinging surface activates the parts of the brain involved in sleep. The swinging motion propelled healthy male subjects in the study more rapidly into sleep and gave them longer-lasting deep sleep than sleeping on a non-rocking surface.
About the writer: Rosemary Frei has a diverse background in life-sciences research, journalism, media relations and continuing medical education. With a M.Sc. in molecular biology/biotechnology from the University of Calgary, Rosemary has been a freelance broadcast and print journalist for Canadian radio (CBC) and business magazines, including Equinox and Canadian Business.