Meditation for Modern Life: Finding Calm in a Busy World
Meditation is no longer a practice reserved for monks and yogis. People from all walks of life are embracing meditation to improve their well-being, and they’re using apps to do it. Meditation is more than just sitting still; it’s about being present, mindful, and aware of your thoughts and emotions.
The Benefits of Meditation
Extensive research has proven that meditation has a profound impact on both mental and physical health. Regular practice can lead to reduced depression, a stronger immune system, better relationships, increased creativity, and more. With so many benefits, it’s no wonder meditation has become a staple in modern self-care.
Getting Started with Meditation
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to meditation. Your practice is personal, and you can tailor it to fit your lifestyle and schedule. Some people meditate in the morning to start their day with clarity, while others prefer to wind down at night. The key is to find what works for you and make it a habit.
Finding the Right Meditation App
With so many meditation apps available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. We’ve rounded up eight top-notch apps that cater to different needs and preferences. Whether you’re a beginner, busy bee, or skeptic, there’s an app that’s perfect for you.
Best Meditation Apps for 2020
Best for Beginners: Headspace
Headspace is ideal for newbies, offering expert-led courses and guided meditations. You can start with short sessions and gradually increase your practice. With a rating of 4.9 stars on both Apple and Google Play stores, Headspace is a great place to begin your meditation journey.
Best Free Option: Insight Timer
Insight Timer offers an impressive library of free guided meditations, with over 45,000 options to choose from. You can explore various instructors and topics, making it easy to find what resonates with you. This app is perfect for those who want to try before they buy.
Best for Busy People: Simple Habit
Simple Habit understands that life can get in the way. This app creates a personalized meditation plan based on your goals and schedule. With guided meditations as short as 1 minute, you can fit mindfulness into even the busiest of days.
Best for Sleep: Calm
Calm is renowned for its sleep stories, which will transport you to a peaceful slumber. With over 100 stories to choose from, you’ll never get bored. This app also offers traditional guided meditations for sleep, making it the perfect companion for a restful night’s sleep.
Best for Stressed-Out Parents: Expectful
Expectful is specifically designed for prenatal and postnatal parents. This app offers guided meditations tailored to each stage of pregnancy and parenthood, helping you relax and connect with your baby. With a rating of 4.7 stars on Apple and 3.7 stars on Google Play, Expectful is a trusted resource for new parents.
Best for Chanting and Mantras: Sattva
Sattva takes your meditation practice to the next level with guided chants and mantras led by Sanskrit scholars. You can also learn Mudras, hand positions that stimulate energy flow. This app is perfect for those who want to explore the spiritual side of meditation.
Best for Skeptics: 10% Happier
10% Happier is designed for those who are hesitant about meditation. This app offers simple, straightforward guided meditations led by experts in the field. With a rating of 4.8 stars on both Apple and Google Play stores, 10% Happier is a great introduction to meditation.
Best for Soundscapes: Inscape
Inscape started as a trendy meditation studio in New York City, but its app brings the experience to your fingertips. With a vast library of high-quality soundscapes, you can immerse yourself in a sound bath from the comfort of your own home. This app also teaches different types of breathwork, making it a unique find.
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