3 Apps to Boost Your Mindfulness and Your Health

iphone-smartphone-apps-apple-inc-40011.jpeg

When your life is busy and there are too many things to do in one day, it can be difficult to find time for improving your mindfulness and your health. In this time of technology, there is a new way to supplement the support of your therapist or doctor: apps! With mindfulness and wellness apps, you can keep up the techniques that you’ve learned while you’re on the go. Now, if you’re away on a summer trip, you can still practice mindfulness exercises with some tech-based guidance. Here are some apps that can boost your health.

1. Headspace (free in basic mode, but you may choose to pay for a full-app subscription)

Headspace makes meditation simple with their guided, timed activities. They offer support for stress, anxiety, sleep, depression, and more. For example, you can practice breathing exercises, mediations, and other methods to unwind. The app keeps track of your progress and awards you with virtual medals as motivation. They even have mini-meditations for when you need a quick cool down. It’s great because you can focus on areas that matter the most to you!

2. Smiling Mind (free)

Smiling Mind is a not-for-profit organization that helps make mindfulness meditation available to everyone! They provide a variety of meditation lengths and programs for all age groups. There are specific programs for 7-9 years old, 10-12 years old, 13-15 years old, 16-18 years old, and adults. Everyone in the family can benefit from this app with sub-accounts to link the family together. A cool feature is that you can “check in” with yourself to note how you feel before or after your meditation. It’s a wonderful app for kids, teens, and adults!

3. Sleep Cycle (free with in-app purchases on iOS, $0.99 on Android)

Do you struggle to achieve restful sleep? Does it take a toll on your mood and energy levels during the day? You should try Sleep Cycle, an app that monitors your snoring, movement, and sleep patterns. With just your phone, it can adapt to your natural sleep habits. It wakes you up during your lightest sleep in the morning (rather than during your deep sleep). Then, you can start your day feeling more well-rested! Just place your phone near your bed or on the floor, and it will find the best time during a 30-minute window to wake you up.

We all want to strengthen our mindfulness and overall well-being. In addition to following our doctors’ and therapists’ advice, apps can be very helpful for improving our health. They are great tools to utilize while on the go. You should definitely download these apps today!

Emily Zeman