Summary

The author discusses the mental health benefits and the joy of using an ENO portable tree hammock during quarantine, emphasizing the activity's meditative and grounding effects.

Abstract

The article describes the author's experience with a Double Nest ENO, a popular brand of portable tree hammocks, and how it has positively influenced their thinking and relaxation during the quarantine period in Kentucky. The author reflects on the adaptability required during times of change and highlights the importance of self-care, which led to the purchase of the ENO. They elaborate on the versatility of setting up an ENO in various scenic locations, including near Mammoth Cave and Red River Gorge, and how the activity encourages exploration and a primal sense of adventure. The author also touches on the concept of "Eno-tiquette," which includes finding the right trees and setting up the hammock efficiently, likening it to a game of strategy akin to Survivor. Ultimately, the greatest appeal of ENO-ing for the author is the serene moments of silence and reflection it provides, offering a much-needed respite from the constant stimulation of technology and work.

Opinions

The author believes that ENO-ing is a fun and creative way to take care of oneself during quarantine.
They express a love for the outdoors and the simplicity of nature that ENO-ing offers.
The author finds a sense of excitement and adventure in exploring new locations to set up their ENO.
They suggest that there is an art to setting up an ENO, with techniques and an unwritten set of rules or "Eno-tiquette."
The author values the meditative and mentally freeing aspect of ENO-ing, emphasizing the importance of unplugging and slowing down in today's fast-paced world.
They hold the opinion that moments of silence in the hammock provide mental clarity and relief, allowing them to ponder life and feel more grounded.

How Hanging From Big Trees Helps Me Think Clearly and Relax

I bought a Double Nest ENO for $130 not long ago.

“Eno” is a popular brand that’s basically become generic for portable tree hammock.

Odd as it may sound, Eno-ing has improved how I think and feel — it’s a reason to go outside, a vessel for relaxation, and a way to feel more grounded… (even though I’m hanging in the air).

Perfect Quarantine Hobby

I don’t know about you, but quarantine is still the vibe here in Kentucky.

I’m almost through an entire month of furlough and it’s reminding me of summer vacation in grade school… but I’m 24 years old. And it’s not so normal, per se, for me to do NOTHING with my life.

One thing I’ve learned is I’ve got to be willing to adapt as change happens. I can’t resist change because it’s inevitable; the unknown is always unfolding.

During quarantine, I’ve had to adapt and get creative with how I take care of myself.

That’s kind of why I bought the Eno.

Where Can You Setup an Eno?

You can setup an Eno anywhere really. That’s what’s so fun about it.

Kentucky’s great when it comes to the outdoors. There’s tons of rocks, caves, and other natural formations, so it’s easy to land a cool Eno spot. I live about 30 minutes from Mammoth Cave which is the largest cave system in the world. Kentucky’s also home to Red River Gorge, which is another beautiful landmark.

Red River Gorge, Kentucky. Photos by Author

The thing I love about Eno is it gets you excited to go out and explore a little bit. There’s something primal and adventurous about going somewhere you’ve never been before... there’s also solace in the simplicity of nature and honestly it’s just fun to hang from really big trees. :)

A couple spots near me:

Clifty Hollow // Bowling Green, KY. Photo by Author

Shanty Hollow // Bowling Green, KY. Photo by Author

“Eno-tiquette”

I like getting into new things — especially things that have their own set of rules and community around them. I guess I like learning. And while there’s not a whole lot to “learn” about Eno-ing, there’s still some technique to it.

It’s sort of like an episode of Survivor.

You’ve gotta find two trees 6–10 feet apart, strong enough to hold your body weight. Pick the wrong tree and there’s consequences.

Do you have XL straps? Okay, you’ve got a few extra feet to play with…

There are different ways to go about hanging the Eno. Some people throw the straps around the tree and try to catch it on the other side. If the trees big, you basically have to hug it. Me, I do the “march-around-like-a-small-child” trick.

Oh, is that a Southern Live Oak? Dang. Nice tree. Might wanna use that.

If you’re with friends, you gotta get the best spot.

And you have to be first to set up, duh.

It’s like Survivor, I swear.

Hang Appeal

The best part about Eno is not the set up, the positioning, or even the initial adventure. It’s what happens when you’re finally there…

Nothing.

Aside from the occasional laugh or song on the radio, basically nothing happens. Which is why Eno-ing is so meditative and mentally freeing.

There’s always a point of silence.

It’s a very distinct moment where everyone shuts up and everything settles into quietness (or music).

That’s when you allow yourself to relax and just be.

More and more each year, it becomes harder and harder to unplug and slow down. For me, I can become obsessed with stimulation — I can get stuck in cycles where I’m entangled in technology and focused on work.

Although nature’s silent, it has a way with words.

When I look up at the tree I’m hanging from, it says “I gotchu bro.”

I always feel like it’s trying to tell me something, or reveal what needs attention in my life. Laying there, I can get lost in the world around me.

I usually ponder the condition of human existence. Maybe I’ll think of a dessert or something.

But it’s always a moment of relief when I’m hanging in the trees.