Practicing mindfulness in todayās hectic world can be challenging, but the emotional, mental and physical benefits of meditation are worth the effort for many. Discover apps that help meditators of all levels achieve peace of mind and deal with issues concerning sleep, relationships and fitness.
Many of these apps have a free initial download; however, users will have to pay to unlock special features and programs.
Apps for Overall Zen
Great for beginners, this app is structured, friendly and easy, offering classes for stress, sleep and pain management. It features meditations of different lengths along with exercises for anxiety, better rest and personal growth. There are meditations catered to children of different ages, as well as SOS sessions to help restore calm for those who experience panic and anxiety.
Calm is a good choice for more experienced meditators. The app offers a plethora of ambient music, instructional videos and individual exercises. Sessions offer something for everyone, ranging from focus and concentration to breaking habits, forgiveness and self-esteem. Calmās Sleep Stories provides over 100 guided imagery bedtime stories, some read by celebrities like Matthew McConaughey and Bob Ross. AAA members can save $40 on a one-year subscription.
Breethe help users gain quality sleep with special music, breathing exercises, nature soundscapes, readings and hypnotherapy. Meditations range in subject matter, length and desired outcome. Beginners can start with a 12-week program that teaches the ins and outs of meditation as they progress. The gentle alarm clock and morning meditations help users make the most of their morning routine. Perhaps the most unique feature is the mindfulness program for kids and teens.
Apps Catered to You
This app asks users to check in with how theyāre feeling, recommending certain meditation and mindfulness exercises tailored to their emotional state. Features include guided mediations, journaling, yoga and acupressure videos. The app lets users track their check-ins and map their feelings, stressors and emotions. Recommended for new and experienced meditators.
The magic of Buddhify is that users donāt have to schedule their meditation; they do it when it’s convenient for them, whether they’re taking a break at work, walking, eating or traveling. With meditations ranging from 3-40 minutes, thereās something for every availability and meditation level, ranging from beginner to advanced.
Omvana is a meditation app with guided meditations led by experts. It allows users to link with the HealthKit program to help identify stress levels and recommends certain meditations based on your mood. Users can also choose their own background music to further customize the experience.
Apps From Experts and Those Who Have Been There
This app is based on the book by the same name by news anchor Dan Harris, who famously had a panic attack on the air. Harris narrates the app, taking listeners on a guide through his learnings on meditation, which helped him manage his emotions. Self-described as ādesigned for skeptics,ā the app uses videos and guided meditations to make meditation easy and accessible. Thereās information on relating mindfulness to everyday activities and interactions, such as relationships and work, as well as exercises of different lengths to help fit meditation into a busy day.
Gain access to 500+ guided meditations led by 50 knowledgeable instructors ranging from monks to life coaches with this app. Meditations cover a variety of topics, including sleep and stress, and are customized for both new and experienced meditators. Whatās cool about this app is that it features meditations catered toward different social groups, including kids, moms, entrepreneurs and even veterans.
This free meditation app provides users access to guided meditations, advice from experts and discussion groups to expand their meditation communities. Users can practice different types of meditation, including Zen and Buddhist mindfulness, and join groups with other members centered on topics like atheism, Christianity and even poetry. If desired, Insight Timer will also provide a gentle reminder when itās time for your daily meditation.
Apps for Fitness Buffs
Glo focuses on yoga, Pilates and meditation exercises, having users adopt exercised-based mindfulness. Classes follow a program where users start with the basics of a topic, for example, emotional health or strength, and work their way toward more advanced classes as they grow. With professional instructors, itās all the benefits of a yoga or Pilates studio from the comfort of home.
MINDBODY blends mindfulness and fitness into one. Users can search fitness classes like Pilates, yoga, barre and cycling, as well as wellness services, including meditation, massage, acupuncture and nutrition. The idea is to heal the entire body through customizable fitness class searches and services.
What are your favorite meditation and mindfulness apps? Tell us in the comments!