Sway ... just a little bit longer

The proper placement of a hammock is essential to the enjoyment of a summer.

When we were looking to buy our house, my wife was concerned for living space, outside space, all the things that are important. But I went into the back garden, saw two strong trees and was sold.

After all, it's not just about finding two trees spaced at the right distance. The type of tree matters, and the placement of the trees, and the proximity to civilization.

The same rules apply whether it be a home hammock or a temporary sling at a cottage or campsite. There are important things to consider before committing.

Southern hammocks are straightforward: They must be between palm trees and in direct sight of others, who can be waved at when you want a fresh drink.

Here in the north, there's more at stake: Put your hammock between a pair of pines and you'll get no rest from mosquitoes. Similarly, it can't be suspended above long grass; bugs love long grass.

The trees must be stout yet slim enough to sling a rope around with ease. They need a straight trunk, unencumbered by branches for at least the same height as yourself.

And most importantly, the hammock trees must be out of view. If you are Canadian and married with kids, you're never truly on vacation – even if you just ran a marathon, you can't relax and fall asleep in the afternoon without your partner making you feel just a little guilty. The hammock should not be in full view, or you'll enjoy no more than five minutes at a stretch. But get it right, and what a stretch it will be.

On a warm day in the mesh of a string hammock, there can be only goodness in the world. Your body is fully supported at every point, evenly and gently, on all sides as your weight sinks into the weave.

Hammocks can be made from rope or cloth, but soft string is the best, bunched thickly for strength and knotted into a criss-cross pattern so that the wind can pass through it and around you.

You'll need a cellphone to call for beer and other less important supplies, but set it on "Silent" so it's only good for dialling out.

So find those trees, sling those ropes around them and climb into your summer womb. Pull your hat down over your face, close your eyes and reach over for that beer. But don't knock it over. If you do, the noise of you falling to the ground as you lunge to rescue it will betray everything, and your summertime secret will be out.

Summer Rituals is a series of personal stories about seasonal traditions.

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