Although there are many strategies and tools out there, we are going to talk about a few that most people have access to.
*None of these apps are affiliated with Shanti Soul Counseling. No compensation was received.
There are a multitude of mindfulness and meditation apps available, each with its own unique approach and offerings. Here’s a closer look at three popular options: Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer, to help you find the perfect fit for your journey to inner peace:
Headspace: Embrace the friendly guide approach.
Strengths: Beginner-friendly with a charming animated guide and bite-sized sessions. Offers themed courses on sleep, focus, and stress management. Free trial and tiered subscription options.
Calm: Immerse yourself in a serene soundscape.
Strengths: Extensive library of guided meditations on various topics, led by renowned experts. Soothing nature sounds and music tracks for relaxation and sleep. Premium membership unlocks deeper content and additional features.
Insight Timer: Explore the vast marketplace of meditation voices.
Strengths: Largest free library of guided meditations and talks from diverse teachers. Community-driven with live meditation sessions and social features. Timer function and background sounds for unguided practice.
Juggling responsibilities, chasing dreams, and holding space for others, it’s easy to lose sight of ourselves. But amidst the chaos, there’s a simple yet powerful tool that can become your haven: journaling. More than just a diary, it’s an invitation to embrace your inner wisdom and unlock a world of personal growth. Go old-school with a pen and paper, or download a journaling app, both are easily accessible to help support your needs.
Close your eyes and imagine yourself on a serene beach. Listen to the rhythmic sound of the waves, each inhale a gentle swell, each exhale a calming retreat.
Breathe deeply and slowly, filling your lungs with the scent of salty air.
Feel the sand beneath your toes, the sun warming your skin.
With each exhale, release a worry, letting it be carried away by the tide.
As you continue, picture your mind becoming as vast and peaceful as the ocean itself.
Practice controlled breathing to center yourself and alleviate anxiety symptoms. Try different strategies on your own to see what works best for you. If you want extra support, apps like Breathing Zone or Relax Breath offer customizable breathing exercises to help regulate your breath and reduce stress.
Seek professional support through therapy. Connect with a licensed therapist that fits with your goals and needs. Be sure to learn about them on their website. Find out what they specialize in and their approach to therapy.
Foster a positive mindset by keeping a gratitude journal. This can be as simple as keeping a small paper journal close by, or making it accessible from your phone so that it’s mobile. Apps like Grateful or The Five Minute Journal guide you in acknowledging and appreciating the positive aspects of your life, helping to shift your focus away from anxiety-inducing thoughts.
Maybe too much screen time is the problem – there’s even an app to help with that! Let’s be honest, sometimes we just ignore the app limit notifications we set. But at times (right before we want to go to bed), it’s good to step back and put down the screen.
With tools like Freedom or Cold Turkey you can get that little bit of assistance. Apps like those allow you to limit your online presence, helping you create a healthy balance between the virtual and real world.
Tune in to podcasts that promote mindfulness and relaxation. Platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Youtube host various shows that offer calming stories, guided meditations, and expert insights on managing anxiety.
Engage in physical activity to release pent-up tension. Strava is a great free app that can track your walks, runs, or bike rides. Apps like Mindbody or Yoga for Beginners guide you through workouts and yoga routines, promoting both physical and mental well-being.
Prioritize quality sleep to manage anxiety. Tracking your sleep may be a helpful tool to get more information about your sleep patterns. Devices like Fitbit or Oura Ring to monitor your sleep patterns, helping you establish healthy sleep habits that contribute to overall mental wellness.
| Benefit | Why Sleep Track |
|---|---|
| Gain insights into your sleep habits | Shine a light on your sleep patterns and identify areas for improvement. |
| Celebrate your sleep victories | Witnessing longer stretches of deep sleep or fewer nighttime awakenings reinforces positive changes you've made, fueling your commitment to healthy sleep habits. |
| Foster a community of sleep seekers | Many sleep trackers offer social features, connecting you with others on a similar sleep journey. Share tips, celebrate milestones, and find encouragement, creating a supportive network for prioritizing sleep. |
| Tailor your sleep environment | Some trackers integrate with smart home devices, allowing you to adjust temperature, light, and sound based on your sleep data. This creates an optimal sleep environment, further enhancing your slumber quality. |
| Boost your overall wellbeing | Improved sleep impacts everything from mood to energy levels. By tracking your sleep and making adjustments, you're investing in your overall well-being and unlocking a healthier, happier you. |
Not always able to get outside? Immerse yourself in soothing nature sounds with apps like Relax Melodies or Nature Sounds. These apps offer a variety of calming sounds, from ocean waves to birdsong, creating a tranquil atmosphere to help ease anxiety.
Incorporating these tools into your daily routine can contribute to a comprehensive approach to anxiety management. Experiment with different tools to find what resonates best with you, and remember that everyone’s journey is unique. By embracing these tools, you’re taking a proactive step towards cultivating a sense of calm and promoting your mental well-being.
I would love to partner with you on your journey towards discovering your best you. If you reside in the state of Oregon, then I would love to have a quick FREE 15-minute call with you to see if we are a good fit.
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